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The IPL 2026 retention window dropped some major bombshells, leaving franchises with heavy purses and a pool of elite talent to fight for. While fast bowlers often steal the headlines, T20 cricket is won in the middle overs, and this year’s auction features some world-class tweakers who are back on the market in the IPL 2026 Mini Auction.
Here are three released spinners who are expected to spark a bidding war at the IPL 2026 Mini Auction.
1. Ravi Bishnoi
Ravi Bishnoi’s release by the Lucknow Super Giants came as a surprise to many. The young leg-spinner has been a consistent wicket-taker in the league, boasting over 70 career IPL wickets. Although his IPL 2025 campaign was quieter than usual, claiming 9 wickets in 11 matches, his pedigree is undeniable. Bishnoi is a rare commodity: an aggressive Indian leg-spinner who bowls deceptive googlies and attacks the stumps. With teams always desperate for quality Indian spin options to balance their overseas quota, Bishnoi’s name will likely trigger frantic paddle raising at the IPL 2026 Mini Auction.
2. Wanindu Hasaranga
Sri Lankan superstar Wanindu Hasaranga finds himself in the IPL 2026 Mini auction pool again after a season with the Rajasthan Royals (RR). Hasaranga picked up 11 wickets in 11 games during IPL 2025, a decent return that perhaps didn't fully justify his price tag for the franchise. However, his overall T20 resume is staggering. With 46 IPL wickets to his name and the ability to smash quick runs down the order, he offers the perfect all-round package. Franchises looking for a match-winner who can control the game and finish innings will have the 28-year-old high on their wishlist. "
3. Maheesh Theekshana
Joining his compatriot on this list is Maheesh Theekshana. Also released by the Rajasthan Royals, Theekshana remains one of the most difficult bowlers to read in world cricket. In IPL 2025, he matched Hasaranga’s tally with 11 wickets in 11 matches. While his economy rate was on the higher side last season (hovering near 9.7), his unique "mystery spin" and ability to bowl effectively in the Powerplay make him a tactical goldmine. Teams like KKR or Mumbai Indians, who value mystery spinners to break partnerships, could see him as the missing piece of their bowling puzzle.
