IPL: 5 Players RR Should Release Ahead of Next Season

Rajasthan Royals (RR) have shown moments of brilliance in the recent IPL 2025 season, but continue to fall short when it matters most. Despite having a solid core, their campaign in IPL 2025 has been marred by inconsistent performances and underwhelming displays from several players.

As the franchise looks to bounce back stronger in IPL 2026, RR must make tough calls in the off-season. Releasing non-performing or ill-fitting players will be key to reshaping the squad and maximizing their auction strategy.

Here are the 5 players RR should release ahead of the next IPL season:

1. Shimron Hetmyer

Despite being known as an aggressive middle-order batsman, Shimron Hetmyer has had trouble staying consistent in the IPL. Although he has occasionally displayed exceptional talent, RR has frequently found itself in difficult circumstances due to the batter’s inability to perform well under pressure.

While his 187 runs in 10 games have come with a strike rate of 152.03, Hetmyer also failed to finish the game for RR in three straight matches. His performances have been too inconsistent to warrant a spot in RR's long-term plans, particularly given the availability of younger, more vibrant substitutes.

2. Sandeep Sharma

Despite having a lengthy IPL career, Sandeep Sharma has had erratic performances in recent seasons. Despite his expertise, RR has struggled to effectively close games because of his propensity to leak runs in the final overs. This season, RR has lost important games due to his inability to execute his plans under pressure.

Given that Sandeep Sharma has taken nine wickets at an economy rate of 9.89 in ten games, RR would be well advised to let him go. RR can invest the money they save in a faster and more skilled Indian bowler. This will enable them to add new players to their bowling attack in preparation for the 2026 Indian Premier League.

3. Maheesh Theekshana

In IPL 2025, Sri Lankan mystery spinner Maheesh Theekshana has failed to replicate his international success. His 9 wickets in 9 games for RR have come at an economy of 9.47. Often called to bowl in power-play overs, Theekshana has struggled to keep opposition batters in check.

Despite his quality, he has had trouble finding wickets regularly, and his spells have frequently been unproductive. Removing Theekshana will create room for a more impactful spinner who can reliably help the side win next season, as RR needs a stronger spin option.

4. Shubham Dubey

On paper, Shubham Dubey has done what he was supposed to do: score runs at a very good strike rate. His 59 runs in 6 games have come at a strike rate of 163.88. However, he has lacked consistency, especially in close games where RR fell short.

Even though Dubey might be useful as a backup, RR lacks sufficient confidence in his skills based on his recent appearances. By letting him go, the team will have the chance to invest in an all-rounder who can provide balance and batting depth.

5. Tushar Deshpande

Tushar Deshpande was an expensive buy for the Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the IPL 2025 auction, where they paid INR 6.50 crores for his services. However, Deshpande has taken just 6 wickets in 8 games at an eye-watering economy of 11.25. He has often been expensive and struggled to find breakthroughs when most needed.

Deshpande was released by CSK despite having one good IPL season, due to being expensive and ineffective in death overs bowling. Releasing Deshpande and vying for better options might give RR a stronger chance in the next IPL auction to bolster their fragile bowling unit.

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