With the IPL 2027 retention deadline of November 17 drawing closer, franchises are busy assessing their existing squads and identifying players who might not feature in their plans for the upcoming season. The mini-auction, scheduled for December 16, 2026, in Goa, will provide teams with an opportunity to address their weaknesses and build stronger combinations.
For Rajasthan Royals (RR), the priority will be to make calculated adjustments rather than undertake a complete squad overhaul. Under captain Riyan Parag and head coach Kumar Sangakkara, the franchise had a competitive IPL 2026 campaign, finishing fourth in the league standings before suffering an exit against Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 2.
Their batting department enjoyed considerable success, with Orange Cap winner Vaibhav Suryavanshi and Dhruv Jurel playing important roles. However, Rajasthan struggled with their finishing options and bowling control during the middle overs, which eventually affected their title ambitions.
With approximately ₹2.65 crore remaining in their purse and all eight overseas positions occupied, RR could consider releasing a few international players to generate additional funds and create room for fresh additions. Let’s have a look at some overseas players Rajasthan Royals could part ways with before the IPL 2027 mini-auction, potentially freeing up ₹15.40 crore.
3 overseas stars RR can release ahead of IPL 2027 auction
1. Shimron Hetmyer (₹11 Crore)
Role: Middle-order finisher
Shimron Hetmyer has previously been an important figure in Rajasthan Royals’ batting lineup, particularly because of his ability to accelerate during the final overs. However, his performances in IPL 2026 were considerably below expectations. Retained for ₹11 crore, the West Indies batter endured a disappointing campaign, scoring just 78 runs at a strike rate of 113.04. His inability to deliver impactful contributions in the lower middle order became a concern for the Royals.
Rajasthan struggled to maintain momentum during the closing stages of several innings, and Hetmyer’s lack of runs further exposed their finishing problems.
Why RR could release him?
Despite his previous match-winning performances, Rajasthan might decide that a change is necessary in their finishing department. His substantial salary also makes him one of the most obvious candidates for release.
Parting ways with Hetmyer would immediately add ₹11 crore to the franchise’s auction budget. That amount could allow RR to compete for an established overseas finisher who has demonstrated better consistency and the ability to deliver under pressure. Although releasing a player of Hetmyer’s experience would be a significant decision, his recent returns could encourage the management to explore alternatives. Another option is that RR can re-acquire him in a slightly less price.
2. Adam Milne (₹2.40 Crore)
Role: Fast bowler
Adam Milne was signed to provide Rajasthan Royals with additional international experience and depth in their fast-bowling department. The New Zealand pacer possesses considerable pace and has the ability to trouble batters with his aggressive approach.
However, his involvement during IPL 2026 did not produce the desired results. Fitness concerns and difficulties in maintaining consistent availability limited his contribution to the team’s campaign. Meanwhile, Jofra Archer enjoyed an impressive season, finishing with 25 wickets, while Nandre Burger provided another important overseas option with his left-arm pace.
Why RR could release him?
With Archer leading the pace attack and Burger offering a different bowling angle, Rajasthan might not find it necessary to continue carrying another overseas specialist fast bowler who struggles to secure a regular place.
Releasing Milne would help the franchise recover ₹2.40 crore while opening up an overseas position. RR could utilise that opportunity to recruit an international all-rounder or a specialist bowler capable of controlling the scoring rate during the middle overs. Considering their existing pace-bowling resources, Milne’s position in the squad could come under scrutiny.
Also READ: 3 overseas players Mumbai Indians (MI) can release ahead of IPL 2027 mini-auction
3. Dasun Shanaka (₹2 Crore)
Role: Pace-bowling all-rounder
Dasun Shanaka joined Rajasthan Royals as an additional all-round option who could contribute with aggressive batting in the lower order and provide useful overs with his medium pace. However, the Sri Lankan international struggled to establish himself as a regular member of the playing XI during IPL 2026. His limited opportunities meant that he could not make a significant impact on the Royals’ campaign.
Rajasthan also have other players capable of fulfilling similar responsibilities. Donovan Ferreira offers considerable flexibility with the bat and can provide wicketkeeping cover.
Why RR could release him?
Shanaka’s position could become difficult to justify given the competition for overseas spots and the availability of players with more established roles in the squad.
Although his all-round abilities provide useful depth, Rajasthan might prefer to invest in an overseas player who can make a more consistent impact across different match situations. Releasing Shanaka would bring another ₹2 crore into the auction purse and free up an international squad position.
The Royals could subsequently use that slot to target a more effective lower-order batter, a specialist middle-overs bowler or an all-rounder who better complements their existing combination.
Also READ: 3 overseas players RCB can release ahead of IPL 2027 auction
