IPL 2026: 3 Big players who might be dropped on performance

As the race to the IPL playoffs heats up, the margin of error has shrunk to its slimmest. Teams can no longer afford underperformers in their XI, and the time has come for some brutally tough selection calls. Several marquee names have failed to live up to their billing this season, and as the rope tightens, even established stars may find themselves on the chopping block.

1. Jitesh Sharma (Royal Challengers Bengaluru)

Last season, Jitesh Sharma was a crucial cog in RCB’s title run. Batting lower down the order, he aggregated 261 runs in 11 innings at an average of 37.28 and a blistering strike rate of 176.25 that turned games, and a fifty to go with it.

This year, the contrast is stark. In seven innings, Jitesh has managed just 63 runs, averaging nine at a strike rate of 112.50. The explosiveness that once made him indispensable is nowhere to be found. As RCB look to defend their crown, they may well consider a more balanced XI without him, especially with the playoffs looming.

2. Nicholas Pooran (Lucknow Super Giants)

Nicholas Pooran has looked woefully out of touch from the outset. His struggles were laid bare when Lucknow Super Giants threw him into the Super Over against KKR to face Sunil Narine. 

Pooran attempted a slog, lost his off‑stump, and LSG lost a game they should have won.

The numbers tell a tale of struggle: 82 runs in eight games, an average of 10.25, and a strike rate of 81.18, barely half his overall T20 strike rate. Rather than persisting with him in high‑pressure situations, LSG may be better served by giving him a breather and recalibrating their middle order.

3. Trent Boult (Mumbai Indians)

For years, Trent Boult has been one of Mumbai Indians’ most trusted weapons with the new ball. But this season, his radar has deserted him. In the powerplay, he has gone wicketless across six overs, conceding 85 runs at an alarming economy of 14.16.

Overall, Boult has just two wickets in four games, conceding 75.50 runs per dismissal. For a bowler whose reputation rests on early breakthroughs, this slump is glaring. It may be in both his and MI’s best interest to give him time off to introspect and reset.

The IPL is unforgiving. Reputation alone cannot guarantee a place in the XI when performances falter. Jitesh, Pooran, and Boult are all proven match‑winners, but their current numbers tell a different story. 

As the playoff race intensifies, coaches and captains may have no choice but to make ruthless calls. The coming weeks will reveal whether these stars rediscover their spark or watch from the sidelines as their teams chase glory.