Former Indian batter Cheteshwar Pujara has shared his views on the big decisions that could shape the IPL 2027 season. In a rapid-fire round with Star Sports, Cheteshwar Pujara gave clear answers about player releases, team combinations, captaincy changes, and the franchises that could face major changes before the auction.

He backed Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release the most players, picked Mumbai Indians (MI) for possible changes to their main squad and named Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) as the team that could enter the IPL 2027 auction with the least pressure on December 16 in Goa.

Cheteshwar Pujara predicts huge shake-up at KKR ahead of IPL 2027

When asked which team could release the highest number of players, Cheteshwar Pujara picked the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) instantly during the rapid-fire round with Star Sports.

The former Indian batter simply answered "KKR," suggesting the franchise could make several changes to its squad. Pujara also believes KKR could face an important decision regarding its captaincy.

When asked which team might search for a new captain, he again named the three-time IPL champions. He explained, “I think again KKR, because they don't have a captain.”

Actually, Ajinkya Rahane, who led KKR last season, retired from the game, leaving the franchise to search for a new captain ahead of the IPL 2027.

Mumbai Indians could make shock changes to their core squad

Meanwhile, Pujara believes that the Mumbai Indians could even release some players from their main group, which would be a major decision for the five-time IPL champions.

When asked which franchise might make changes to its core squad, Pujara replied, "Mumbai Indians." He also selected MI when it comes to a possible surprise release. Explaining his prediction, he said, "MI, because there are a lot of rumors around the squad. So, potentially, it could be MI."

There has been massive discussion around the Mumbai Indians and Hardik Pandya before the IPL 2027 auction. It is being said that MI and Pandya could part ways before the next season.

Pujara backs RCB to enter IPL 227 Auction without pressure

Pujara feels the defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will have a much more relaxed time before the auction. RCB has built a strong squad that has won back-to-back IPL titles, so Pujara feels they do not have too many areas that need immediate attention.

When asked which team would enter the auction in the most comfortable position, he said, "RCB, because they have a balanced squad and they don't need to look for players.”

Pujara picks Mumbai Indians' captaincy call as the biggest decision of the season

Cheteshwar Pujara also highlighted one decision that could have a major impact on the upcoming season. He believes the identity of Mumbai Indians' captain will be one of the biggest talking points this season.

When asked which captaincy decision could define the tournament, Pujara said, “I think it will be interesting to see who leads the Mumbai Indians. And that decision can define IPL 2027.”

Some teams have tough calls to make, while others can sit back and relax! 😎 Cheteshwar Pujara takes on the biggest questions surrounding player releases, squad changes and team strategies in this rapid-fire round. #TATAIPL Retention 2027 https://t.co/i6UcPIzj8z

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) November 7, 2026