The Rajasthan Royals (RR) enjoyed another competitive Indian Premier League (IPL) campaign in 2026, showcasing their trademark blend of exciting young talent and experienced international stars. The franchise once again unearthed emerging prospects while remaining a formidable force throughout the tournament. However, despite several standout individual performances, RR were unable to go all the way and add a second IPL trophy to their cabinet.
As preparations begin for IPL 2027, the Royals management could be forced into making some tough calls regarding player retention and squad composition. With auction strategies evolving rapidly and franchises constantly seeking the perfect balance between youth, experience, and financial flexibility, Rajasthan may choose to release a few players who failed to justify their price tags or struggled to secure regular opportunities. Let’s take a look at five players who could be released by Rajasthan Royals ahead of IPL 2027.
5 players who might get released by RR ahead of IPL 2027
1) Shimron Hetmyer
Shimron Hetmyer has been one of Rajasthan Royals’ most recognizable overseas players over the last few seasons. Retained for a significant amount due to his reputation as a destructive middle-order finisher, but the West Indies batter was expected to provide match-winning cameos during crucial phases of IPL 2026.
However, things did not go according to plan. Hetmyer managed just 78 runs during the season and struggled to impose himself on games. His strike rate remained well below expectations for a designated finisher, while competition from emerging Indian batters and other overseas options like Donovan Ferreira further reduced his importance within the setup.
2) Lhuan-dre Pretorius
The young South African wicketkeeper-batter arrived with plenty of promise but found opportunities difficult to come by in a highly competitive Rajasthan Royals squad. With established options already available in both the wicketkeeping and middle-order departments, Lhuan-dre Pretorius spent much of the campaign on the fringes.
While his long-term potential remains unquestionable, RR may decide that retaining an overseas player who is unlikely to be a regular starter does not represent the most efficient use of a squad slot. The Royals could instead target a more proven overseas performer or invest in a young Indian wicketkeeper with greater opportunities for development within the franchise structure.
3) Adam Milne
New Zealand speedster Adam Milne was recruited to add pace and experience to Rajasthan’s bowling attack. However, injuries and limited appearances prevented him from making a significant impact throughout IPL 2026. At 34 years of age, Milne faces stiff competition from younger overseas pacers across the league.
Rajasthan already possess quality fast-bowling resources like Nandre Burger and may look to invest in a younger option capable of contributing across multiple seasons. Considering his limited game time and salary commitment, Milne appears to be one of the most likely overseas players to be released ahead of the next auction.
4) Sandeep Sharma
Sandeep Sharma has been a dependable performer for Rajasthan Royals and has often delivered important breakthroughs with the new ball. His experience and ability to swing the ball have made him a valuable asset over the years. However, IPL franchises are constantly planning for the future, and RR could be tempted to inject fresh energy into their domestic pace department.
With younger fast bowlers like Brijesh Sharma emerging across Indian cricket, the franchise may view IPL 2027 as the right time to begin transitioning toward a newer bowling core. Although his departure would be an emotional decision, releasing Sandeep could provide Rajasthan with additional flexibility during the auction.
5) Kuldeep Sen
Kuldeep Sen was once viewed as one of Rajasthan Royals’ most exciting pace prospects thanks to his ability to generate genuine speed. However, opportunities have become increasingly scarce in recent seasons as the franchise assembled a stronger and deeper bowling attack with Jofra Archer.
With established names occupying key roles and younger players continuing to emerge, Sen has struggled to cement a consistent place in the playing XI. As a result, RR may decide to move in a different direction and free up a domestic squad spot. A fresh start elsewhere could benefit both the player and the franchise as they look toward IPL 2027 with different objectives.
Rajasthan Royals could focus on squad balance ahead of IPL 2027
Rajasthan Royals possess one of the strongest young cores in the IPL, with several exciting players expected to remain central to the franchise’s long-term plans. The management is likely to continue building around its established match-winners like Vaibhav Suryavanshi and Dhruv Jurel while creating additional room for strategic acquisitions at the auction.
The franchise’s primary objective will be strengthening squad depth, improving finishing options, and ensuring greater flexibility across both batting and bowling departments. Releasing a few experienced names may be a necessary step in that process. With another auction cycle approaching, Rajasthan Royals could once again be among the busiest teams as they attempt to build a squad capable of ending their long wait for a second IPL title.
