In a stunning development ahead of IPL 2026, the Rajasthan Royals cricket team is reportedly planning a major reshuffle, with at least six players likely to be released or traded to other franchises. This move comes after another disappointing campaign in IPL 2025, where the team once again failed to end its long title drought.
Rajasthan Royals: Still Chasing Their Second IPL Title
The Rajasthan Royals cricket team, the inaugural champions of the Indian Premier League in 2008, have been chasing their second title for the last 17 years. Despite reaching the finals in IPL 2022 under the leadership of Sanju Samson, the team has struggled to maintain consistency and perform in crucial matches.
In IPL 2025, the Royals showed flashes of brilliance but eventually crashed out before the playoffs. Their inconsistency with the bat and ball led to another early exit, prompting the management to rethink the team’s core.
Big Changes Coming: 6 Players to Be Released or Traded
As per media reports and internal sources, Rajasthan Royals are planning to release or trade at least six players before the IPL 2026 auction. These changes are part of a larger strategy to revamp the squad and address long-standing weaknesses in middle-order stability, bowling depth, and finishing capabilities.

A source close to the franchise revealed to PTI, We’ve received multiple inquiries for six of our players from various franchises. At the same time, we’re also in talks with other teams to explore possible trades that will strengthen our squad.
The IPL trading window, which opened on June 4, 2025, just a day after the IPL 2025 final, will remain open until a week before the 2026 auction. A second window will be available post-auction and will close one month before the IPL 2026 season kicks off.
Who Could Be on the Move?
While no official names have been released, speculation is rife that Sanju Samson, RR’s captain and wicketkeeper-batsman, might be one of the most sought-after players. Samson had a modest IPL 2025, scoring 285 runs in 9 matches at an average of 35.63, with just one half-century.
Despite his quiet season, Samson’s overall IPL record remains impressive, with 4704 runs in 177 matches at a strike rate of 139.05, including three centuries. His leadership in taking the team to the IPL 2022 final makes him a valuable asset not just as a player, but as a captain.
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are reportedly interested in acquiring Samson, with CSK viewing him as a long-term replacement for the aging MS Dhoni, who turns 45 before the 2026 season.
Rajasthan Royals Cricket Team Stats and Records (As of IPL 2025)
To understand the urgency behind RR’s reshuffle, let’s take a closer look at the Rajasthan Royals cricket team stats and records:
- IPL Title Wins: 1 (2008)
- Finals Appearances: 2 (2008, 2022)
- Playoff Appearances: 5 times
- Most Runs for RR: Sanju Samson – 3500+ runs
- Most Wickets for RR: Shane Watson (past), Yuzvendra Chahal (recent years)
- Highest Team Score: 226/6 vs Punjab Kings (IPL 2020)
- Best Bowling Figures: Sohail Tanvir – 6/14 in IPL 2008
- Most Catches (Fielder): Sanju Samson and Jos Buttler
Despite these stats, RR has often been plagued by inconsistency, both in squad selection and on-field performances. The lack of bench strength and reliance on a few key players have been a concern over the years.
Trade Talks Heating Up Across Franchises
Insiders suggest that Rajasthan Royals are actively engaged with multiple franchises in exploring trade options. This is part of a broader trend across the IPL, where teams are increasingly leveraging the trading window to rebalance their squads rather than relying solely on auctions.
“Every team is open to trading if it helps them strengthen weak areas. RR is no exception,” said a franchise insider.
What This Means for IPL 2026
With the IPL 2026 auction expected to be one of the most competitive in recent years, Rajasthan Royals are clearly making early moves to build a stronger, more resilient team. The potential release of six players suggests a shift towards a younger, more performance-oriented setup.
Fans can expect a drastically different RR squad in 2026 one that may no longer include some of the familiar faces but is likely to be more balanced and strategically built.
Final Thoughts
The Rajasthan Royals cricket team stats and records reveal a franchise with immense potential but inconsistent execution. With the possibility of six players being released or traded, RR appears serious about turning things around in IPL 2026.
Whether these bold moves finally bring success remains to be seen, but one thing is clear Rajasthan Royals are ready to gamble big to reclaim their spot among the IPL elite.