Former Indian cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara has offered his assessment of the upcoming IPL 2027 mini-auction, discussing the possible release of expensive players such as Cameron Green and Nicholas Pooran while backing Royal Challengers Bengaluru to maintain their existing squad.
The countdown to the IPL 2027 mini-auction has started, with franchises preparing to finalise their player retention plans. As teams evaluate their combinations for the upcoming season, former India batter Cheteshwar Pujara has shared his predictions about the possible changes across different franchises.
During an interaction with Star Sports, Pujara discussed players who could be released, teams likely to make significant squad adjustments and franchises that may prefer to continue with their existing combinations.
According to the former cricketer, Kolkata Knight Riders could be among the busiest teams ahead of the auction. Meanwhile, he believes Royal Challengers Bengaluru have a strong enough squad to avoid major changes.
The deadline for submitting the final retention lists is November 17, 2026.
Cameron Green’s KKR Future Could Become a Talking Point
One of the biggest decisions for Kolkata Knight Riders could involve Australian all-rounder Cameron Green.
KKR spent Rs 25.20 crore to secure Green during the IPL 2026 auction. However, despite the substantial investment, Pujara feels the franchise could consider releasing him before the next season.
The former India batter also pointed out that releasing Green does not necessarily mean KKR would lose the opportunity to bring him back. The franchise could attempt to purchase the Australian again during the mini-auction.
“They can still get him back at the auction,” Pujara said while discussing the team’s possible strategy.
Another high-profile name mentioned in the discussion was Nicholas Pooran. The Lucknow Super Giants batter had a disappointing IPL 2026 campaign, which could put his place in the squad under consideration.
Pooran was retained by LSG for Rs 21 crore. Pujara suggested that the franchise might release him to create additional funds. However, he also discussed the possibility of keeping Pooran and releasing young Indian batter Ayush Badoni instead.
Possible Player Releases Across Other Franchises
Pujara also highlighted potential retention decisions involving several other IPL teams.
Chennai Super Kings could face a selection dilemma involving Matt Henry and Matthew Short. Gujarat Titans may have to make a decision between Rahul Tewatia and Shahrukh Khan.
Punjab Kings could consider releasing Xavier Bartlett or Lockie Ferguson, while Sunrisers Hyderabad may review the positions of experienced Indian pacers Jaydev Unadkat and Harshal Patel.
These possibilities indicate that franchises could focus on balancing their squads and managing their available auction budgets rather than simply retaining every established player.
Mumbai Indians Could Surprise With Their Retention Decisions
Mumbai Indians are another franchise Pujara expects could make some unexpected moves before the IPL 2027 auction.
The five-time IPL champions have an established group of players, but changes to their squad cannot be ruled out. Pujara believes Mumbai could surprise everyone with its release decisions.
Questions surrounding Hardik Pandya’s future have also added to the discussions around the franchise. The team’s final retention choices will be closely followed by supporters ahead of the new season.
Kolkata Knight Riders, however, remain Pujara’s pick for the team that could release the highest number of players.
Cheteshwar Pujara Backs RCB to Retain Their Squad
While some franchises could enter the auction with several changes, Pujara expects Royal Challengers Bengaluru to follow a different approach.
RCB, the defending champions, have a balanced combination and may not need to make significant adjustments. Pujara believes the franchise should continue with its current group rather than look for multiple replacements.
“RCB, because they have a balanced squad and they don’t need to look for players,” he explained.
Maintaining squad stability could help Bengaluru carry forward the momentum from their successful previous campaign.
IPL 2027 Auction: Important Dates
The IPL 2027 mini-auction is scheduled for December 16, 2026, in Goa. Before the event, all ten franchises are required to submit their retention lists by November 17.
The players released by franchises will become available for selection during the auction, where teams will have an opportunity to address gaps in their combinations.
With several expensive and established players potentially entering the auction pool, the upcoming event could generate considerable interest among cricket fans. The official retention announcements will provide a clearer picture of how franchises plan to approach the 2027 season.
