Rajasthan Royals to retain Sri Lankans Rahul Dravid wanted gone; SRH block Mohammed Shami deal

With the IPL 2026 retention deadline just two weeks away, the cricket world is heating up with major trade rumors. The biggest buzz surrounds the Indian wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson, with several teams reportedly showing strong interest in the Rajasthan Royals skipper.

Despite an up-and-down run at international cricket this year, including the Asia Cup 2025 and the ongoing Australia series, Sanju Samson’s IPL reputation continues to keep his value sky-high. His ability to turn games around and his calm leadership remain highly admired across franchises.

Rajasthan Royals face big decisions on Sanju Samson, Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga

As reported by Cricbuzz, Samson’s fate will be decided in the next couple of days, as Rajasthan Royals’ lead owner Manoj Badale is set to land in Mumbai to finalize the team’s retention strategy. His arrival could also settle the debate around a few other names in the Royals’ squad.

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Yes, this is about the Sri Lankan spin duo of Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga. Earlier, Theekshana and Hasaranga were both finalized to be released from the squad ahead of the IPL 2026 auction when Rahul Dravid was the head coach.

Since Dravid resigned from his position as the RR head coach and Kumar Sangakkara is back in control of cricket operations, the Rajasthan Royals might not release Theekshana and Hasaranga.

Sunrisers Hyderabad reject multiple trade offers for Mohammed Shami

Meanwhile, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) have made it clear that Indian pacer Mohammed Shami is not going anywhere. The franchise reportedly received multiple trade offers for the experienced Indian pacer, but they turned all of them down, backing Shami’s ability to deliver in crucial moments.

The Indian bowler had a poor IPL 2025 season, taking only 6 wickets in 9 games for the SRH. Despite this, the Sunrisers Hyderabad is not leaving the Indian pacer. Shami’s leadership in the bowling department continues to be seen as irreplaceable by the SRH camp.

Elsewhere, other franchises, including Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), are expected to announce a series of releases before the deadline of November 15, with the IPL 2026 auction set for December.

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Abu Dhabi emerges as a frontrunner to host IPL 2026 Auction

Meanwhile, the upcoming IPL 2026 auction is set for a big twist, as the event is likely to be held outside India this year. The BCCI is reportedly leaning towards the Gulf region as the preferred venue. With the UAE’s Abu Dhabi emerging as the most likely venue, other Middle Eastern countries like Oman and Qatar are also being explored as possible options for the auction.

Initially, the BCCI had planned to host the auction in India, but finding a suitable venue has become difficult. Actually, the December 13-15 window for the IPL 2026 auction falls right in the middle of India’s festive and wedding season, which has created scheduling and logistical challenges.

As a result, shifting the auction abroad seems like a more convenient and practical option. The BCCI is expected to officially confirm the venue and date by November 15, the same deadline for all franchises to submit their list of retained and released players.