The shape of the 2026 Indian Premier League is now clear, and England will again be well represented across the tournament. Thirteen English players have secured deals, spread unevenly across the ten franchises, with some sides leaning heavily on English talent and others opting for none at all.
At Gujarat Titans, Jos Buttler headlines a strong English trio that also includes Tom Banton and left-arm seamer Luke Wood. Buttler’s presence gives Gujarat star power at the top of the order, while Banton adds flexibility and Wood offers variation with the ball.
Rajasthan Royals retain a distinctly English flavour too, pairing Jofra Archer with Sam Curran. Archer’s pace and x-factor remain central to Rajasthan’s plans when fit, while Curran’s all-round skills continue to make him one of the most tactically valuable overseas options in the league.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru boast the largest English contingent, with Jacob Bethell, Phil Salt and Jordan Cox all on their books. Salt’s aggressive batting has made him one of the most sought-after T20 openers in the world, while Bethell and Cox underline RCB’s appetite for youth and versatility.
At Sunrisers Hyderabad, Liam Livingstone and Brydon Carse provide contrasting options: Livingstone’s explosive batting and off-spin balance the side, while Carse adds pace and energy to a squad already stacked with Australian firepower in Pat Cummins and Travis Head.
Mumbai Indians have just one English representative in Will Jacks, whose power hitting and off-spin continue to earn him opportunities in high-pressure environments.
Elsewhere, English involvement is lighter. Chennai Super Kings include Jamie Overton, while Delhi Capitals have taken a punt on Ben Duckett, potentially setting him up for an IPL debut season of real significance.
Four franchises will feature no English players at all in 2026: Kolkata Knight Riders, Lucknow Super Giants, Punjab Kings, and Gujarat’s northern rivals, reflecting how competitive and selective overseas recruitment has become.
Across the league, English players again occupy a range of roles: from marquee stars and proven match-winners to depth options and development projects. With the tournament running from late March through May, their impact will not only shape the IPL itself but also feed directly into England’s white-ball planning beyond the Ashes winter.
As ever, the IPL remains both opportunity and examination — and for England’s players in 2026, the spotlight will be as bright as ever.
