5 IPL legends who will miss IPL 2026 season

The mini-auction for the upcoming IPL 2026 is all set to take place on December 16 in Abu Dhabi. But ahead of that, several big names have announced their retirement from the competition. Some names have shared their decision to opt out of the competition, and a few decisions have left fans surprised.

Here are the 5 IPL legends who will miss the IPL 2026 season

1. Glenn Maxwell

Glenn Maxwell, the Aussie all-rounder, has confirmed his decision to withdraw from the upcoming mini-auction for IPL 2026.

On social media, Maxwell said: "After many unforgettable seasons in the IPL, I've decided not to put my name into the auction this year. It's a big call, and one I make with a lot of gratitude for everything this league has given me."

"The IPL has helped shape me as a cricketer and as a person. I've been lucky to play with world-class teammates, represent incredible franchises, and perform in front of fans whose passion is unmatched. Thank you for all your support over the years, hopefully see you soon."

Maxwell has represented four IPL franchises — Delhi Capitals, Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and Punjab Kings. In 141 IPL games, he has 2819 runs and 41 wickets.

2. Faf du Plessis

Former South Africa captain Faf du Plessis has also confirmed that he will not be part of the upcoming IPL season. “After 14 seasons in the IPL, I’ve decided not to put my name into the auction this year,” he wrote on Instagram. “It’s a big decision, and one that comes with a lot of gratitude when I look back.”

“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,” he added.

Du Plessis has played for Chennai Super Kings, Rising Pune Supergiants, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and Delhi Capitals. In 154 matches, he scored 4773 runs at a strike rate of 135.78.

3. Ravichandran Ashwin

India’s Ravichandran Ashwin has also drawn curtains on his IPL career. 

On August 27, 2025, on Twitter, he wrote: “Special day and hence a special beginning. They say every ending will have a new start, my time as an IPL cricketer comes to a close today, but my time as an explorer of the game around various leagues begins today. Would like to thank all the franchisees for all the wonderful memories and relationships over the years and most importantly the @IPL and the @BCCI for what they have given me until now. Look forward to enjoying and making the most of what’s ahead of me.”

Ashwin played for five franchises — Chennai Super Kings, Rising Pune Supergiants, Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals, and Rajasthan Royals. In 221 IPL matches, he took 187 wickets and scored 833 runs in 98 innings.

4. Andre Russell

Andre Russell has also announced his retirement from the IPL as a player. He will now be seen as the ‘power coach’ for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). For the last 11 seasons, he was an integral part of KKR as a player, and now he will continue with the franchise in a new role.

"I've made a decision to retire from the IPL. I'll still be active playing in various leagues all around the world and all the other KKR franchises," Russell said in a video message. He played for the Delhi Capitals and KKR. In 140 games, he scored 2651 runs and took 123 wickets.

5. Moeen Ali

England all-rounder Moeen Ali has also shared that he is set to be available for the Pakistan Super League (PSL) instead of being available for the IPL 2026 mini-auction. In 73 IPL games, he scored 1167 runs and took 41 wickets. He represented three teams — Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Chennai Super Kings, and Kolkata Knight Riders.

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