Matheesha Pathirana to Chennai Super Kings
This shapes up as one of the most likely reunions. Released after being retained for Rs. 13 crore, Matheesha Pathirana endured a difficult IPL 2025, finishing with 13 wickets at an economy rate of 10.14. On the surface, those numbers justify the release. Look closer, though, and the underlying metrics still point to an elite death-overs operator.
CSK’s need is straightforward. It was among the weakest sides at the death last season, particularly at Chepauk, where precision and variation matter more than raw pace. A buyback in the Rs. 6 to 8 crore range would allow CSK to address a glaring tactical hole while saving roughly Rs. 5 to 7 crore on its earlier investment.
Quinton de Kock to Kolkata Knight Riders
Another high-probability scenario. Quinton de Kock was released after scoring just 152 runs across eight innings in IPL 2025, numbers that tell only part of the story. What KKR lacks is not simply runs at the top, but an aggressive left-handed opener who can also keep wickets.
De Kock still fits that brief. His unbeaten 97 against Rajasthan Royals last season was a reminder of his ceiling, and he has looked fluent in the ongoing India vs South Africa series. If KKR can bring him back in the Rs. 5 to 7 crore bracket, it would represent a low-risk correction rather than a nostalgic gamble.
Venkatesh Iyer to Kolkata Knight Riders
This could become the mini-auction’s most compelling subplot. KKR’s Rs. 23.75 crore outlay in 2025 yielded just 142 runs in seven innings, making his release inevitable and financially liberating.
Yet the door is not fully closed. Iyer has publicly expressed his desire to return, and his all-round skill set, particularly his bowling, was barely explored last season. Recent Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy performances underline that he remains a multidimensional option rather than a one-note top-order batter.
The caveat is strategic. If KKR secures Cameron Green in the Rs. 15 to 20 crore range, Venkatesh becomes surplus. Without that move, a buyback at Rs. 6 to 8 crore could suddenly look like value rather than indulgence.
Published on Dec 16, 2025
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