3 Players franchises might regret retaining for IPL 2027

Retaining a player in the Indian Premier League (IPL) is never straightforward. It demands careful analysis, tactical foresight, and a willingness to make tough calls. 

A single misstep can weigh down a franchise’s campaign, turning a retained player into a liability if performances fail to match expectations. With planning and strategies already underway for IPL 2027, here are three players whose retention could prove costly.

1. Trent Boult (Mumbai Indians)

Trent Boult has long been one of the most dangerous new‑ball swing bowlers for Mumbai Indians, but his form deserted him in IPL 2026. Across five matches, he managed just two wickets while conceding 188 runs. 

His economy rate of 11.62 was damaging, and his average of 94 runs per wicket highlighted his struggles. MI may regret holding on to him if his decline continues.

At 36, the left-arm speedster may be well past his prime, and he is also not honing his craft for the Kiwis at the international level.

2. Matheesha Pathirana (Kolkata Knight Riders)

KKR’s decision to invest INR 18 crore in Matheesha Pathirana raised eyebrows, especially since Chennai Super Kings had already let him go because of his injury-prone body. KKR's gamble backfired beyond their worst nightmare. 

Pathirana bowled just eight deliveries before a hamstring injury ruled him out of the season. Retaining him now would be a huge risk, suggesting KKR have not learned from past mistakes.

3. Matt Short (Chennai Super Kings)

CSK’s pursuit of Matt Short at the IPL 2026 auction was puzzling. With Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sanju Samson, and Ayush Mhatre already in the squad, the team had no shortage of openers. 

Short’s inclusion disrupted balance and yielded little return: three matches, 60 runs, an average of 20, and a strike rate of 117.64. While he could be valuable to a side in need of an opener, CSK’s roster makes him an ill‑fit.