New Zealand all-rounder Rachin Ravindra has been let go by the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) just ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction, making him one of the standout names available. CSK decided to part ways with Ravindra, along with Devon Conway and Matheesha Pathirana, while trading Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran for Sanju Samson. The franchise had previously invested significantly in the 26-year-old, signing him for INR 1.8 crore in 2024 and retaining him for INR 4 crore in 2025 using the RTM card. In IPL 2025, Ravindra scored 191 runs. Even though he’s been released, his skill set positions him as a strong candidate in the auction. Teams looking for a reliable top-order batter and a secondary spin option are likely to be interested, keeping the young talent in high demand. Delhi Capitals The Delhi Capitals are anticipated to show keen interest in Rachin Ravindra at the IPL 2026 mini-auction as they aim to bolster their top order. Following a disappointing IPL 2025 season, where their powerplay batting was a significant weakness, DC has released both Jake Fraser-McGurk and Faf du Plessis. With INR 21.80 crore in their budget and several overseas slots open, the franchise is on the lookout for impactful top-order players. Ravindra, who was released by CSK after scoring 222 runs in 2024 and 191 runs in 2025, brings aggressive left-handed batting along with left-arm spin options. His knack for providing solid starts makes him a strong candidate to partner with KL Rahul at the top of the order. Read also: Ashes 2025-26: How Travis Head’s Explosive Knock Take the Match Away From England? Kolkata Knight Riders The three-time champions, Kolkata Knight Riders, could ignite a bidding war for Rachin Ravindra at the IPL 2026 auction. After releasing Quinton de Kock, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Venkatesh Iyer, and Andre Russell, KKR heads into the auction with a hefty purse of INR 64.30 crore and clear needs at the top and in the all-rounder category. Despite a lackluster IPL 2025, his performances for New Zealand, including a breakout showing in the 2023 ODI World Cup and being named Player of the Tournament in the 2025 Champions Trophy, make him a dependable overseas player. His aggressive batting style makes him a perfect match for Sunil Narine, and his left-arm spin skills, paired with Varun Chakaravarthy, will definitely sharpen KKR's bowling lineup. Chennai Super Kings Chennai Super Kings might have let go of Rachin Ravindra before the IPL 2026 auction, but there's a chance he could find his way back to his old team. With the franchise trading away Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran to the Rajasthan Royals for Sanju Samson, CSK now finds itself without a spin-bowling all-rounder, and Rachin could be a solid long-term solution in that role. The young all-rounder had a bit of a rough 2025 season, managing only 191 runs in eight matches at a strike rate of 128.19, which is why he was released. However, with Ayush Mhatre emerging as a strong opening candidate and a substantial budget of INR 43.40 crore at their disposal, CSK might see Rachin as a budget-friendly option to bring back. Many fans and analysts think he could have been kept, especially after Jadeja’s departure. As the auction draws near, it wouldn’t be a shock if CSK makes a move to re-sign Rachin and develop him into a key player for the future.