Kane Williamson to Matt Henry: Top New Zealand players who might be released ahead of IPL mega auction

The IPL rules for the 2025 mega auction have been released, prompting franchises to evaluate which players to retain and which to let go. Several prominent New Zealand players are likely to be released from their respective franchises owing to different reasons. Let us check out some top Kiwi players who might be released before IPL mega auction.

Kane Williamson (Gujarat Titans)

Leading the list is former New Zealand captain Kane Williamson. The 34-year-old suffered a right knee injury in his debut match for the Gujarat Titans during the 2023 IPL, which sidelined him for the rest of the season. In 2024 IPL, Kane Williamson played only two games, scoring 27 runs. In IPL, Kane Williamson has been a proven performer, but his issues with injuries might force GT to release him before IPL mega auction.

Lockie Ferguson (Royal Challengers Bengaluru)

Royal Challengers Bengaluru signed Lockie Ferguson for INR 2 crore ahead of the 2024 season. The right-arm pacer struggled throughout the season, featuring in seven matches where he claimed nine wickets but at a high economy rate of 10.63. . Given his recent decline in performance, the Bangalore franchise is likely to look at offloading the 33-year-old and refreshing its roster with new talent.

Glenn Phillips (Sunrisers Hyderabad)

Glenn Phillips known for his explosive batting and exceptional fielding, was part of the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) during the 2024 season. Although the team finished as runners-up, Phillips did not play a single match due to the presence of Travis Head, Aiden Markram, and Heinrich Klaasen in the squad. It looks like Phillips is not in future plans of SRH.

Matt Henry (Lucknow Super Giants)

In IPL, Matt Henry was part of the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) during the 2024 IPL season. This year marked the first time LSG failed to qualify for the playoffs since the franchise was established in 2022. The 32-year-old returned to action in 2024 for the first time since 2017 but had a disappointing season, claiming just one wicket in four matches with an economy rate of 9.17.