IPL Auction 2026: Maxwell, Russell among major stars who will miss out
The Indian Premier League will hold its auction for the 2026 season in Abu Dhabi on December 16, but the event will unfold without several stars who have defined the league over the last decade.
Here are some of the major stars who will miss out in IPL 2026:
Glenn Maxwell
Australia all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has announced that he will not enter the IPL 2026 auction, effectively drawing the curtain on an illustrious association with the league, at least for now.
“After many unforgettable seasons in the IPL, I’ve decided not to put my name in the auction this year. It’s a big call, and one made with a lot of gratitude for everything this league has given me,” Maxwell wrote on Instagram.
Moeen Ali
Former England all-rounder Moeen Ali will play in the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL) season, a decision that automatically rules him out of the IPL in 2026.
A regular in the IPL since 2018, Moeen has represented Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders. Across 73 matches in the league, he has scored 1,167 runs and taken 41 wickets.
Faf du Plessis
Former South Africa captain Faf du Plessis has announced that he will not be part of the IPL 2026 auction and will instead feature in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) next season.
“This league has been a massive part of my journey. I’ve been lucky to play with world-class teammates, for amazing franchises, and in front of fans whose passion is like nothing else. India has given me friendships, lessons and memories that have shaped me as a cricketer and as a person,” the 41-year-old said in a statement on Instagram.
Andre Russell
West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell has announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL) ahead of the mini auction scheduled for December 16, bringing an end to a 12-season association with the league.
“Hanging up my IPL boots… but not the swagger. What a ride it’s been in the IPL — 12 seasons of memories, and a whole lot of love from the KKR family,” Russell wrote on Instagram.
R Ashwin
Indian off-spinner R Ashwin had announced his IPL retirement in August, following his farewell from international cricket earlier in the year.
Ashwin spent his last year in the league with Chennai Super Kings, with which he had won two IPL titles.
Published on Dec 09, 2025
