IPL 2026: RR should release Jofra Archer and target these three players ahead of auction

Published - 15 Oct 2025, 09:08 IST | Updated - 15 Oct 2025, 09:13 IST

Star pacer Jofra Archer made a return to the Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2025 after being acquired for a massive INR 12.50 crore. The English speedster reunited with the franchise where his IPL career began. After recovering from multiple injuries, Archer made his much-awaited comeback last year and has since even returned to international arena and impressed everyone.

However, regular fitness issues have once again disrupted his rhythm, with a thumb injury ruling him out of RR’s 2025 campaign midway. Given his recurring injury concerns and hefty price tag, the Rajasthan Royals could consider releasing Archer ahead of the next auction to free up significant funds for squad rebuilding. Archer’s impact with RR includes 46 wickets from 35 matches, but long-term reliability remains a concern.

Releasing the England international could allow RR to target fresh overseas pace options and balance their team better for IPL 2026.

Zimbabwean all-rounder Sikandar Raza has been one of the most consistent performers for his country across formats. Raza made his international debut for Zimbabwe in 2013 and has since scored over 4,400 ODI runs and 94 wickets in 153 matches, along with 2,600-plus T20I runs and 96 wickets. Raza is currently among the world’s leading all-rounders. The Pakistan-born has played over 300 T20 matches, scoring over 6,300 runs and taking 200 wickets. He has been part of global leagues such as the PSL, ILT20, and MLC.

In the IPL 2023 and 2024, Raza represented Punjab Kings, scoring 182 runs and three wickets in nine games, including a match-winning 57 against Lucknow Super Giants. Moreover, his stellar form has recently made him the No. 1-ranked all-rounder in One-Day Internationals. The all-rounder's inclusion could add to the Rajasthan Royals’ middle order and add a reliable spin option in Indian conditions.