The IPL 2026 mini-auction is set to be an intriguing event, especially when it comes to the uncapped players. These players often carry immense potential and are eye-catchers for franchises aiming to build a strong future squad without spending big on established stars. With BCCI’s updated definition of uncapped players including those Indian players who haven’t represented the national side for the last 5 years even some big names now fall under this category, making the auction even more exciting.
What Defines Uncapped Players in IPL 2026?
Traditionally, uncapped players are those who have not played for the Indian national team. However, for IPL 2026, the criteria have broadened to include Indian players who have not played internationally for their country in the past five years. This change adds a fresh flavor to the pool, bringing experienced yet untapped talent back into focus.
IPL 2026 Team-wise Predicted Uncapped Players
| Team | Uncapped Players Predicted for Retention / Key Targets |
|---|---|
| Chennai Super Kings (CSK) | Andre Siddharth, Ayush Mhatre, MS Dhoni, Vansh Bedi, Urvil Patel, Ramkrishna Ghosh |
| Delhi Capitals (DC) | Ashutosh Sharma, Sameer Rizvi, Abhishek Porel, Vipraj Nigam |
| Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) | Abdul Samad, Ayush Badoni, Himmat Singh, Arshin Kulkarni, Akash Singh, Digvesh Rathi, Prince Yadav |
| Mumbai Indians (MI) | Bevon Jacobs (o), Robin Minz, Arjun Tendulkar, Naman Dhir, Raj Bawa, Ashwani Kumar, Karn Sharma, Vignesh Puthur |
| Others (RCB, PBKS, SRH etc.) | Final lists are still pending but are expected to feature young uncapped players to ensure balance and support future growth. |
Team-wise Predicted Retained Uncapped Players
Each IPL franchise approaches the mini-auction differently, balancing between proven performers and young talent. Below is a team-wise look at some of the uncapped players they are expected to retain or target for IPL 2026.
Read Also:- Chennai Super Kings (CSK) Uncapped Player List IPL 2026
Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
CSK has historically leaned toward experienced players but is shifting gears in 2026 to banking on uncapped talent. The retained uncapped players expected in their squad include Andre Siddharth, Ayush Mhatre, Vansh Bedi, Urvil Patel, Ramkrishna Ghosh, and notably MS Dhoni, who qualifies as uncapped due to the updated rule.
Delhi Capitals (DC)
Delhi Capitals plans a major squad revamp but aims to hold onto four promising uncapped players: Ashutosh Sharma, Sameer Rizvi, Abhishek Porel, and all-rounder Vipraj Nigam. These young talents are seen as crucial parts of DC’s rebuilding process.
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)
Lucknow has actively featured uncapped players in their playing line-up. Players like Abdul Samad, Ayush Badoni, Himmat Singh, Arshin Kulkarni, Akash Singh, Digvesh Rathi, and Prince Yadav are predicted to be retained due to their strong performances and potential to grow.
Mumbai Indians (MI)
Mumbai Indians have some exciting uncapped players to retain, including Bevon Jacobs (overseas uncapped player), Robin Minz, Arjun Tendulkar, Naman Dhir, Raj Bawa, Ashwani Kumar, Karn Sharma, and Vignesh Puthur. MI aims to nurture these youngsters for future success.
Other Teams
While full lists are still being finalized, each team is expected to blend a core of uncapped players with their main squads looking for value picks from the auction.
What to Expect in the IPL 2026 Mini Auction?
The IPL 2026 auction will be shorter, termed as a “mini-auction,” with teams retaining a core squad and looking to fill specific roles. Uncapped players with consistent domestic performance or those showing promise in recent seasons will be highly sought after. Because of the revised uncapped player rules, some experienced players previously considered capped will now add depth to this category, adding an interesting twist to team selections.
