The SKM Salem Spartans have spent the most of any team this cycle. The Salem Spartans TNPL 2026 retention list features 16 players, the largest retained group in the league, and includes the single most expensive retention of the season.
Mohammed M is the headline name at Rs 11,50,000, the highest retention fee across all eight teams. Hari Nishaanth C follows at Rs 7,50,000, with Nidhish S Rajagopal and Boopathi Vaishna Kumar also retained at strong value. The Spartans have clearly backed their core to deliver after committing so heavily to it.
Salem Spartans Retained Players
Total spent: Rs 45,28,125. Purse left: Rs 4,71,875.
| Player | Fee (Rs) |
|---|---|
| Mohammed M | 11,50,000 |
| Hari Nishaanth C | 7,50,000 |
| Nidhish S Rajagopal | 6,25,000 |
| Boopathi Vaishna Kumar | 4,25,000 |
| Ajith Ram S | 3,12,500 |
| Eshwar M | 2,50,000 |
| Abishiek S | 1,50,000 |
| Sunny Sandhu | 1,50,000 |
| Vivek R | 1,50,000 |
| Harish Kumar S | 1,50,000 |
| Poiyamozhi M | 1,50,000 |
| Rahil Sanjay Shah | 1,25,000 |
| Karthick Manikandan V S | 46,875 |
| Sudhan Sanjeevi Kandeepan | 31,250 |
| Rahul D | 31,250 |
| Yazh Arun Mozhi M E | 31,250 |
What the Numbers Say
The Spartans spent Rs 45,28,125 on retentions, the most in the league, which leaves them with the smallest purse of just Rs 4,71,875. With so little to spend, their auction work will be limited to a few low cost picks to complete the squad. They are putting their faith firmly in the group they already have.
The released players are Himalaya, Gowri Sankar J, Kavin R and Pavithran R, who all return to the pool.
The Salem Spartans TNPL 2026 retention list is a bold, all in move. By keeping the biggest squad and the priciest player in the league, they are backing depth and continuity to carry them through the season.
Also Read: TNPL 2026 Retention List, All 8 teams purse and retained players list
