IPL 2026: International Stars Likely to Be Benched for the Full Season
The IPL 2026 auction had all teams buzzing as they finalized their rosters for the tournament's 19th edition. Each franchise successfully filled their full quota of 25 players, demonstrating solid planning for the upcoming season. With the exception of the Gujarat Titans and Lucknow Super Giants, every team brought in the maximum of eight overseas players, underscoring the significance of international talent in the league.
These overseas players not only bring quality and experience with both bat and ball but also play a crucial role in mentoring young Indian players by sharing their insights. However, with only a limited number of overseas slots available in the playing XI, the fierce competition means that some big-name international stars might find themselves warming the bench for most of IPL 2026.
Akeal Hosein (CSK)
Akeal Hosein wrapped up his last IPL match back in April 2023. This talented spin-bowling all-rounder could step into the shoes of Mitchell Santner, who played a similar role for the Chennai Super Kings a few seasons back. However, CSK has recently secured young left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder Prashant Veer for an eye-popping INR 14.20 crore, which might make them hesitant to include another overseas player in the lineup who fills a similar position.
After finishing at the bottom of the table in IPL 2025, Chennai decided it was time for a squad revamp. Dewald Brevis, Matthew Short, Nathan Ellis, and Noor Ahmad are likely to be the four overseas players kicking off the season for the five-time champions.
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Rachin Ravindra (KKR)
Rachin Ravindra has joined the Kolkata Knight Riders for a hefty INR 2 crore during the mini-auction. There's no denying the incredible talent he brings to the table. However, the left-handed batsman might find himself waiting the whole season for a shot at the starting line-up, potentially ending up without a single game played for the three-time champions.
KKR is likely to kick off their batting with Finn Allen, while Cameron Green, who became the priciest player in the IPL 2026 auction, is expected to take a spot in the middle order. Matheesha Pathirana and Sunil Narine are also anticipated to be the other two overseas players in the playing XI. If Allen doesn't make the cut, Tim Seifert could easily step in as the wicketkeeper and also take on the opening role.
Matthew Breetzke (LSG)
Matthew Breetzke had a pretty quiet season last year, playing just a single game for the Lucknow Super Giants. The right-handed batter recently took the lead for South Africa during their tour in Pakistan while regular captain Temba Bavuma was out, but it looks like he might be spending a lot of time on the bench this IPL season.
The team is expected to field four overseas players: Aiden Markram, Mitchell Marsh, Nicholas Pooran, and either Wanindu Hasaranga or Anrich Nortje. If they decide to include both bowlers, Markram might have to step aside. Plus, Josh Inglis is also vying for a spot in the playing XI whenever he’s available. With all these talented overseas players in the mix, Breetzke is going to have a tough time making it into the starting lineup.
Lockie Ferguson (PBKS)
Lockie Ferguson only managed to play four matches in IPL 2025 before an injury sidelined him for the rest of the season. The New Zealand fast bowler has faced his fair share of injury woes in recent years. When he's in top form, he can be a real asset for any team, but when he's not quite right, he tends to give away a lot of runs.The Punjab Kings are expected to kick off with Marcus Stoinis, Marco Jansen, Ben Dwarshuis, and Mitchell Owen as their four overseas players in the squad.
In terms of seam bowling, Xavier Bartlett is another option, and he can be quite a challenge to face with his speed and bounce. Azmatullah Omarzai also adds an all-rounder option to the Kings' lineup. Because of this, Ferguson might struggle to find a spot in the team.