Glenn Maxwell Opts Out of IPL 2026 Auction: Report

Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has reportedly not registered for the IPL 2026 player auction, making him unlikely to feature in the next edition of the league. The development comes as a surprise to many, given that Maxwell was expected to be one of the most sought-after names in the all-rounder category this season.

According to an ESPNCricinfo report, Maxwell’s name was missing from the list of 1,355 registered players, which includes marquee names such as Cameron Green, Venkatesh Iyer, Ravi Bishnoi, Liam Livingstone, and Jamie Smith. Despite modest performances in recent IPL seasons, Maxwell’s explosive batting and all-round value meant he was anticipated to attract strong interest from multiple franchises.

Maxwell Among Four Big Stars to Skip IPL Auction

Maxwell is one of four prominent players to withdraw from the IPL 2026 auction. The others include:

• Faf du Plessis – set to feature in the Pakistan Super League (PSL)
• Moeen Ali – also committed to the 11th edition of PSL
• Andre Russell – recently retired from IPL duties after being appointed Power Coach for Kolkata Knight Riders

The PSL’s schedule clashes with IPL 2026, explaining several overlapping withdrawals.

Punjab Kings Released Maxwell Ahead of IPL 2026

The Punjab Kings released Maxwell before the deadline last month. He was bought for ₹4.2 crore at the previous mega auction but struggled with injuries and form. His season was cut short due to a fitness issue, and Australian all-rounder Mitch Owen replaced him—later earning a retention spot with the franchise.

At 37, Maxwell’s long-term availability and fitness have been questioned, and his decision not to register may indicate a shift in his T20 career priorities.

Impact on the All-Rounder Market

Maxwell’s absence opens the door for several high-impact all-rounders who can now command higher bids. Players expected to benefit include:

• Cameron Green
• Liam Livingstone
• Delano Potgieter
• Sikandar Raza
• Jason Holder

With multiple franchises needing middle-order power hitters and spin-bowling options, prices in this category may spike.

Only Two Indians Register at the Highest Base Price

For IPL 2026, only two Indian players have registered at the ₹2 crore base price bracket among 45 players:

1. Venkatesh Iyer

• Released by Kolkata Knight Riders, who bought him for a massive ₹23.75 crore
• A proven IPL performer
• Expected to attract aggressive bidding
• KKR, with the largest purse, may attempt to reacquire him

2. Ravi Bishnoi

• Released by Lucknow Super Giants, who retained him previously for ₹11 crore
• Form particularly declined in recent seasons
• Seen as the top Indian spin option in this auction
• Likely suitors include Rajasthan Royals, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Chennai Super Kings

What Maxwell’s Absence Means for IPL 2026

Maxwell skipping the auction could have multiple implications:

• Punjab Kings lose access to a proven match-winner
• All-rounder demand skyrockets
• Teams may shift strategies toward younger, long-term options
• Auction dynamics may shift as several international stars prioritize other leagues

If Maxwell decides to step away permanently, the IPL will lose one of its most electrifying entertainers, known for game-changing knocks and dynamic fielding.