Published on: Nov 24, 2025 4:02 pm IST|Updated on: Nov 24, 2025 4:07 pm IST
Another IPL season is on the horizon, and what excites most before the biggest cricket extravaganza are the auctions. The IPL 2026 mini auctions are all set to take place on December 16 in Abu Dhabi, and fans are eagerly waiting for it. With many names set to go under the hammer, let’s take a look at four players who are expected to draw massive attention in the auction room and force franchises to bid for them.
The big Australian all-rounder skipped the 2025 IPL season due to injury and has previously represented the 5-time champions Mumbai Indians and the reigning champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru. All-rounders are always high in demand in T20 cricket, and Green is no stranger to the hype, expectations, and pressure IPL brings to the table.
Green was recently seen bowling in the 1st Ashes Test in Perth, confirming his recovery. With his ability to bat in the top order and provide four overs of pace, he is expected to be one of the most expensive buys in the 2026 mini auctions.
Teams that could target him: Lucknow Super Giants, Kolkata Knight Riders, Chennai Super Kings
Also Read: IPL 2026 Auctions: Retained, Released, and Traded Players of All Teams Ahead of the 19th Season
Perhaps the biggest headline of the retention window was KKR releasing Andre Russell. Russell has been the face of Kolkata Knight Riders since 2014, delivering match-winning performances with both bat and ball. His ability to clear boundaries at will and pick crucial wickets at crunch time makes him one of the most impactful players in IPL history.
Russell began his IPL career with Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) before moving to KKR, where he became a legend. His release means franchises will be lining up with their purses ready. Given his reputation and proven track record, Russell could spark one of the fiercest bidding wars in Abu Dhabi.
Teams that could target him: Delhi Capitals, Chennai Super Kings, Royal Challengers Bengaluru
Nicknamed the “Baby Malinga”, Matheesha Pathirana has quickly established himself as one of the finest death bowlers in the world. His slingy action and ability to deliver pinpoint yorkers make him a nightmare for batters in the final overs. One bad season with the 5-time champions Chennai Super Kings, and he found himself among the players set to go under the hammer in the IPL 2026 auctions.
Pathirana was a key figure for the 5-time champions, helping them close out tight games. However, his release ahead of the 2026 auctions has opened the door for other franchises to bid aggressively. With the demand for specialist death bowlers always high, Pathirana is expected to attract heavy bucks.
Teams that could target him: Lucknow Super Giants, Punjab Kings, Rajasthan Royals
Released by Kolkata Knight Riders despite being a big-money signing last year, Venkatesh Iyer is set to be one of the most valuable Indian names in the auction. His ability to attack bowlers in the opening and middle overs, coupled with his secondary seam-bowling option, makes him a rare package.
India’s shortage of high-quality finishers means Iyer’s profile will be in demand. His left-handed batting adds variety, and his proven IPL record ensures franchises will not hesitate to spend big.
Teams that could target him: Gujarat Titans, Rajasthan Royals
While the four names above are guaranteed to spark bidding wars, the auction often ignites surprises. Emerging talents from domestic cricket, like Auqib Nabi, Smaran Ravichandran, etc., could also fetch heavy bucks, especially if franchises look to balance their squads with fresh energy. Players who shine in recent international series or domestic tournaments often become hot properties overnight.
Tags: IPL 2026