All eyes on Abu Dhabi
Big names and rebuilding teams set the stage for a high-drama IPL auction in Abu Dhabi today, with international stars, experienced IPL players and Indian talent going under the hammer as franchises address key gaps. Teams are expected to target specific needs — from power hitters and all-rounders to pace and spin — with fierce bidding, surprise picks and smart buys likely to shape the squads for the next season.
Stay tuned to our live coverage of the IPL 2026 mini auction, straight from the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi
Auction fever
There is a real buzz at the mini auction, as large crowds of fans have come to the venue, many wearing their favourite team jerseys, even though it is a working day here in the UAE.
Fans turn up in droves
Many fans said they took time off work or changed their schedules just to enjoy the atmosphere, describing auction day as just as exciting as a real match. The bright team colours, chants, and quiet debates about possible picks added to the energy as bidding started in Abu Dhabi.
Who is Mallika Sagar, the auctioner?
Mallika Sagar will lead the IPL 2026 auction on December 16; best known to cricket fans as the composed and authoritative voice behind IPL and WPL auctions. Her career spans fine art, global auction houses, and elite sports leagues, making her journey both rare and influential.
Quick facts
Born: 1975, Mumbai, India
Profession: Auctioneer
Fields: Fine art, sports auctions
Education: Art history, Bryn Mawr College, USA
Notable firsts: First Indian woman auctioneer at Christie’s New York; first woman auctioneer in the Pro Kabaddi League
Major sports auctions: IPL, WPL, Pro Kabaddi League
Buzz around Cameron Green
Cameron Green is the biggest name at this auction due to a rare mix of quality and demand. The Australian allrounder missed the 2025 mega auction through injury but now returns fit, with Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings — the two franchises with the biggest purses — desperate for an overseas allrounder. While his bidding could surpass Mitchell Starc’s record, the IPL’s maximum-fee rule means Green can earn a maximum of Rs18 crore (Dh8.9 million), even if the winning bid goes much higher, adding an intriguing strategic twist to the auction.
Let the bidding begin!
The much-anticipated IPL 2026 auction is underway, starting with capped batters. Today, 369 players will be up for bidding.
For cricket fans, the auction can be just as exciting as the matches themselves. Many will be on the edge of their seats as top players are up for bidding.
Sarfaraz Khan, who has been overlooked by India, made a strong case for himself with a quick 73 off 22 balls for Mumbai in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy against Rajasthan. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR, Rs 64.30 crore) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK, Rs 43.40 crore), both three-time champions, are likely to spend the most. Other big names like Venkatesh Iyer, Liam Livingstone, Ravi Bishnoi, and Prithvi Shaw could also fetch high bids today.
Miller sold!
David Miller has been snapped up by Delhi Capitals. Touted as one of the most sought-after middle-order batters, Miller went for his base price of Rs2 crore — a surprising turn of events for many fans.
Who got richer last time?
Top players who fetched the highest bids at the IPL 2025 mega auction:
Intense bidding for Green
Cameron Green’s most recent IPL stats:
Total IPL matches: 29
Total runs: 707 at an overall average ~41.6 and strike rate ~153.7
Highest score: 100* (1 century)
Fifties: 2
Boundaries: 62 fours and 32 sixes
Wickets: 16 with a bowling average – 41.5 and economy – 9.08
Batting performances last season (selected): Scores include 38* (17), 32 (24), 46 (27), 27 (21) with occasional wickets in matches.
The top 3 overseas players at the IPL 2025 auction
CSK vs KKR for Green
The battle over Green takes centre stage in Abu Dhabi Etihad Arena. Cameron Green, a 26-year-old Australian batter, has started a bidding war at the IPL auction between Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Kinght Riders. The bidding began at Rs 2 crore and has already crossed Rs 20 crore, with several teams still competing as the contest intensifies.
Green goes to Kolkata
After fierce bidding, KKR trumped CSK for man from Down Under.
Indian actor, Shah Rukh Khan’s team get the priced Cameron Green for Rs25.20 crore
CSK fans in force
Chennai Super Kings fans are getting excited. Rahil already has his wishlist: Cameron Green in yellow and a top Indian spinner taking wickets at Chepauk. Now that Green is out, we hope Rahil’s other wish comes true.
And for the perfect finish, Rahil hopes to see some classic ‘helicopter shots’ from Thala MS Dhoni. “We want to see a few helicopter shots of MS Dhoni before he retires. The perfect ending would be Dhoni lifting the trophy one last time,” he said.
Sunil Lawrence, Sreejith, and Rahil Shad, all Chennai Super Kings fans, said the auction is just as exciting as a match day.
Number of slots available
The 10 teams need to fill up 77 slots with a cumulative purse of Rs237.55 crore and among them
Anything to watch auction live
Cricket fans don’t just watch the IPL auction — they live it!
Anivesh Mathew, Lovin, Anoop, and Viju said they had attended an IPL auction earlier as well and returned this year hoping to meet their cricketing heroes and take selfies with the players.
“Almost 30 of us took time off work to be here today. We even adjusted our duty schedules and will make up for it later,” fans shared.
“We’re passionate about cricket, and getting a chance to see legends like Kumar Sangakkara, MS Dhoni, Ricky Ponting, and Shreyas Iyer in person makes this experience truly special. This is actually our second time attending an IPL auction live,” said Viju.
Viju in the centre
Rachin Ravindra goes unsold
Gus Atkinson, Liam Livingstone and Rachin Ravindra set a base price of Rs2 crore but attracted no bids at the IPL auction. Wiaan Mulder came up with a Rs1 crore base price but received no bids.
Hasaranga goes to LSG
Wanindu Hasaranga was picked up by Lucknow Super Giants for Rs2 crore
Wanindu Hasaranga entered the IPL auction with a base price of Rs 2 crore. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) was quick to step in to secure him. The move marks a reunion with coach Andy Moody, with whom Hasaranga has worked closely at Desert Vipers in the ILT20.
Venkatesh Iyer is next
Second set of bidding starts for capped allrounders. Bidding war for Venkatesh Iyer is on between KKR and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Venkatesh in at Rs2 crore
Venkatesh Iyer sold to RCB
Royal Challengers Bengaluru get Venkatesh Iyer for Rs 7 crore as KKR pull out of the bidding.
Deepak Hooda goes unsold
The allrounder Hooda was in at 75 lakh but remained unsold.
Keeper-batter KS Bharat goes unsold with asking bid at 75 lakhs.
De Kock back to MI
Late addition to the auction shortlist, Quinton de Kock entered with a base price of Rs 1 crore. Mumbai Indians (MI) quickly jumped in, sparking speculation—will he serve as backup for a struggling Rickelton, or step in as MI’s first-choice opener? In the end, de Kock was snapped up by MI at his base price.
No buyers for keepers
England’s wicketkeeper-batter Jonny Bairstow entered the auction with a base price of Rs 1 crore. Surprisingly there was no interest.
Fellow England keeper-batter Jamie Smith, valued at Rs 2 crore, also failed to attract any bids, leaving him unsold.
Afghanistan’s Rahmanullah Gurbaz, seeking Rs 1.5 crore, has yet to find a taker as the auction continues.
Finn Allen sold to KKR
New Zealand’s Right-handed batter Finn Allen entered the IPL auction with a base price of Rs 2 crore, and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) were quick to make the opening bid.
KKR secured him at his base price, adding a versatile option to their lineup; Allen can open the batting lineup or even don the gloves. This marks his second IPL franchise stint, following a spell with Royal Challengers Bangaluru.
Cameron Green hits it hard
Cameron Green smashes records before even stepping on the pitch. The Aussie all-rounder is now the highest-selling overseas player in IPL history, and the auction room was pure theatre as teams went all guns blazing to grab him. Paddles flying, bids soaring — it was like watching a super over, but with crores instead of runs.
️ Cameron Green is a KNIGHT
The all-rounder had the auction room buzzing
He becomes the most expensive overseas pick in the history of #TATAIPLAuction #TATAIPL pic.twitter.com/DtB9aixO3o
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) December 16, 2025
Ben Duckett sold to DC
Ben Duckett enters the auction at Rs2 crore — and it’s all smooth sailing for DC. The attacking England wicketkeeper-batter barely sparked a bidding war because Delhi Capitals jumped in first and locked him down at his base price. No drama, no suspense — just a clean sweep for DC.
David Miller buzzing
David Miller joins the Delhi Capitals — and he’s buzzing. After memorable stints with PBKS and GT, the Proteas power-hitter is ready for a fresh chapter in the capital city. Speaking from Lucknow while training with South Africa, Miller said:
“Really excited and just been training now [with SA in Lucknow]. I’ve been around the IPL for a long time and managed to play for a couple of teams. Playing for Delhi is exciting. Definitely. KL is KL and consistent. I want to bring my repertoire and add a lot with my experience. My message to DC fans is looking forward to meeting you all and let’s make it a great two-and-a-half months.”
Mixed Fortunes at the Auction table
Jacob Duffy (NZ): Royal Challengers Bangalore wasted no time, opening at Rs2 crore and sealing the deal without a fight. Looks like Duffy could be Hazlewood’s back-up in the RCB camp.
Matt Henry (NZ): Big name, but no takers. Goes unsold.
Akash Deep (India): Shock of the day! After fetching Rs8.25 crore from LSG in IPL 2025, the Bengal pacer surprisingly remains unsold this time.
Shivam Mavi (India): Former U-19 World Cup winner and ex-GT quick—unsold.
Gerald Coetzee (SA): Entered at Rs2 crore, previously with GT, but no bids yet.
The fast-bowling market is clearly unpredictable this season — some big names left hanging while others quietly find new homes. Stay tuned, because the auction drama is far from over.
Pathirana triggers bidding war
The fourth set of bidding for capped pacers is on. Matheesha Pathirana, the Sri Lankan fast bowler often refered to as baby Malinga, has triggered a bidding war. Last season it was Rs 13 crore.
KKR swoop Pathirana
Matheesha Pathirana sold to KKR for Rs18 crore.
Kolkata Knight Riders have gone big again, splashing another massive chunk of their purse to secure the talented Sri Lankan pacer. Pathirana, is known for his slingy yorkers and death-over mastery.
With this signing, KKR now owns the two biggest buys of the IPL 2026 mini-auction. First Cameron Green, now Pathirana — KKR is clearly building a squad to dominate.
Nortje to LSG
Anrich Nortje sold to LSG for Rs2 crore.
The South African speedster, known for his fiery pace but coming off a long injury lay-off, found a new home with Lucknow Super Giants. LSG opened the bidding at his base price of Rs2 crore — and that was enough to seal the deal.
Paddles go up for Bishnoi
Set 5 heats up with capped spinners! Rahul Chahar goes unsold at Rs1 crore, but all eyes turn to Ravi Bishnoi. The former No.1 T20I bowler sparks a bidding war between RR and CSK, with Royals starting at Rs2 crore and Chennai pushing hard.
The back-and-forth climbs past Rs5 crore as CSK briefly takes control, but RR isn’t backing down. After intense discussions, Royals raise the paddle to Rs6 crore — this battle is far from over.
Now SRH joins the bid for Bishnoi.
Bishnoi sold to Royals
Ravi Bishnoi heads home, becomes costliest Indian player. The star leg-spinner was snapped up by Rajasthan Royals for Rs7.20 crore after an intense bidding war that crossed Rs5 crore. SRH and RR went toe-to-toe before Hyderabad bowed out, leaving Royals to seal the deal. It’s a perfect fit — Bishnoi plays domestic cricket for Rajasthan and hails from the state, making this move feel like destiny. Expect the Royals’ spin attack to look sharper than ever in IPL 2026.
Players in the set 6 goes unsold
Set 6 brings surprises in the uncapped batters category. Gujarat opener Aarya Desai entered at Rs30 lakh but found no takers despite his past stint with KKR.
Delhi’s promising talent Yash Dhull, fresh off a strong domestic season and a productive DPL, also went unsold at the same base price. Two young guns, plenty of potential — but no bids this time around.
No luck for uncapped batters
Uncapped batters continue to struggle at the auction table! Karnataka’s Abhinav Manohar entered at Rs30 lakh but found no takers.
Goa’s Abhinav Tejrana, despite a stunning Ranji debut double-ton and solid SMAT runs, also went unsold.
Punjab’s Anmolpreet Singh and Vidarbha’s Atharva Taide faced the same fate — no bids at their Rs30 lakh base price.
The auction can be brutal, and today it’s proving just that for these promising talents.
Lethal combination
KKR’s pace attack just went nuclear. With Cameron Green and Matheesha Pathirana in their arsenal, Kolkata Knight Riders have assembled what could be the most lethal combination of IPL 2026.
Green brings explosive batting and handy seam options, while Pathirana’s slingy yorkers promise death-over dominance. Fans are already dreaming of fiery spells and match-winning cameos — KKR isn’t just building a team, they’re building a fortress!
Happy with Green’s price tag
Calm confidence from the Knight Riders camp as they celebrate the biggest buy of the IPL 2026 mini-auction.
KKR CEO Venky Mysore on Cameron Green’s record-breaking deal: “We were keen but not so attached to Cameron Green, so had he gone a lot higher, we would’ve let him go. We are very happy with the price,” said Venky Mysore after KKR secured the Aussie all-rounder for a staggering Rs25.20 crore.
Venky Iyer joins RCB
RCB coach Andy Flower on buying Venkatesh Iyer: “We’ve been going after him in the past, and we’re happy to get him. He adds some leadership quality as well. Looking forward to working with him,” said Andy Flower, head coach of reigning champions Royal Challengers Bangalore, after securing Venkatesh Iyer for Rs7 crore.
With his all-round skills and calm presence, Iyer could be a key piece in RCB’s title defence strategy.
Uncapped allrounders: Set 7
Any take on the highest bid in this segment
The story so far
The first six sets are done, and the big guns have fired. Cameron Green shattered records, becoming the costliest overseas player ever with Rs25.20 crore to KKR, followed by Matheesha Pathirana (KKR, Rs18 crore), Ravi Bishnoi (RR, Rs7.20 crore), and Venkatesh Iyer (RCB, Rs7 crore). Green’s bid isn’t just an IPL record—it’s the highest for any overseas player in any franchise league worldwide.
CSK made their first move with Akeal Hosein for Rs2 crore, while big names like Sarfaraz Khan, Prithvi Shaw, and Liam Livingstone remain unsold. With 369 players under the hammer, the drama is only getting started!
Aquib Dar up next
Aquib Dar from Jammu & Kashmir triggers a bidding interest. The uncapped talent has caught the eye of multiple franchises, with Delhi Capitals, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Royal Challengers Bangalore all entering the fray. The auction table is heating up as teams fight to secure this promising youngster — could Aquib be one of the surprise picks of IPL 2026?
Auqib Dar sold!
Auqib Dar is sold to Delhi Capitals for Rs8.40 crore
What a rollercoaster! The Jammu & Kashmir all-rounder triggered a bidding frenzy with Delhi Capitals, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and RCB all in the mix. Rajasthan Royals joined early but bowed out, and after a tense battle that crossed Rs2 crore, RCB pulled out. In the end, Delhi went big — securing Dar for a whopping Rs8.40 crore. A massive payday for the uncapped star and a bold move by DC.
Got lucky with Quinton
Mumbai Indians head coach Mahela Jayawardene was all smiles after landing Quinton de Kock: “We were lucky (laughs). Quinny has been part of MI in the past and across franchises. We wanted to ensure depth at the top of the order — he gives us flexibility in the playing XI.”
A smart move by MI to strengthen their batting firepower with a familiar face.
Prashanth Veer sparks a bidding war
The uncapped all-rounder from Karnataka entered at a base price of Rs30 lakh and immediately attracted interest from multiple heavyweights — Lucknow Super Giants, Mumbai Indians, Rajasthan Royals, and Chennai Super Kings. The auction table is buzzing as these franchises fight to secure his services.
Could Prashanth be the next big uncapped star of IPL 2026?
Prashanth Veer sold to CSK
What a blockbuster moment! Prashanth Veer sold to CSK for Rs14.20 crore.
The Karnataka all-rounder, who entered at a base price of Rs30 lakh, sparked a fierce bidding war among LSG, MI, RR, and CSK. In the end, Chennai Super Kings broke the bank, securing Veer for a whopping Rs14.20 crore.
As an emerging player, this is a dream-come-true moment for Veer and a bold move by CSK to invest in young talent for the future.
Next up, Kartik Sharma
The all-rounder Kartik Sharma is making waves at the IPL 2026 auction, becomes costliest uncapped player in IPL auction history. Starting at a base price of Rs30 lakh, Lucknow Super Giants and Kolkata Knight Riders are locked in a head-to-head battle for his signature. The bids are climbing fast, and fans are already saying, “Looks like after Prashanth, Kartik Sharma will go for big.”
Will KKR add another big name to their shopping spree, or will LSG pull off a steal?
Kartik Sharma sold for Rs14.20 crore
The Rajasthan six-hitting machine and reliable wicketkeeper sparked a bidding frenzy starting at Rs30 lakh. The paddles kept flying as the price soared past Rs6 crore, with KKR briefly in the lead. But in the end, Chennai Super Kings went all-in, grabbing Kartik for a whopping Rs14.20 crore.
Mukul Choudhary to LSG
Mukul Choudhary sold to LSG for Rs2.60 crore.
The Rajasthan wicketkeeper-batter entered at a base price of Rs30 lakh and immediately sparked interest. RR started the bidding for their local star, but soon MI jumped in, signaling how highly rated Mukul is.
The battle intensified as LSG joined the fray, and after a flurry of bids, Lucknow Super Giants sealed the deal at Rs2.60 crore. A big moment for the emerging talent and a smart pick for LSG!
Tejasvi Singh sold to KKR
KKR snatch Tejasvi Singh for Rs3 crore The Rajasthan all-rounder entered at a base price of Rs30 lakh and immediately sparked a bidding tussle between KKR and RR.
After a few intense rounds, Kolkata Knight Riders sealed the deal at Rs3 crore, adding another promising talent to their squad. A smart pick for KKR as they continue to strengthen their middle-order options!
Ashok Sharma sold to Gujarat Titans
Gujarat Titans grabs the fast bowler; Ashok Sharma sold for Rs90 lakh.
The Rajasthan pacer entered at a base price of Rs30 lakh and found solid interest at the table. After a few quick bids, Gujarat Titans sealed the deal at Rs90 lakh, adding depth to their bowling attack. A smart pick for GT as they continue to strengthen their squad with emerging talent.
Naman Tiwari sold to LSG
Naman Tiwari sold to LSG for Rs1 crore.
The left-arm seamer and India U-19 World Cup runner-up entered at a base price of Rs30 lakh and quickly drew interest from Delhi Capitals and Rajasthan Royals. Soon, Lucknow Super Giants joined the fray, pushing the bid past Rs55 lakh.
After a brief tussle between RR and LSG, the Super Giants sealed the deal at Rs1 crore. A promising pick for LSG as they invest in young pace talent.
Stephen Fleming on team’s mid-tournament shift
Stephen Fleming admitted that the team was “a bit slow to evolve” as the tournament progressed, but a major turning point came halfway through. “We made a big shift,” he said, noting that the inclusion of reserve players changed the dynamic and clarified what was needed.
The mid-tournament adjustments, Fleming explained, have laid the foundation for ongoing improvements. He also highlighted the strategic additions of Kartik and Veer: “Kartik – we have been watching him for some time. Veer – we needed that skillset after the Jadeja trade.”
It’s clear the team is focused on adaptability and building the right mix for future success.
Uncapped Indian players go big
The 2025 auction saw uncapped Indian talent hit jackpot territory!
Prashant Veer – Rs14.2 Cr (CSK)
Kartik Sharma – Rs14.2 Cr (CSK)
Avesh Khan – Rs10 Cr (LSG, 2022)
K. Gowtham – Rs9.25 Cr (CSK, 2021)
Shahrukh Khan – Rs9 Cr (PBKS, 2022)
CSK clearly made headlines by splashing big on Veer and Kartik, signalling a bold strategy shift for 2025. These numbers show how uncapped players are rewriting the auction narrative.
Mixed fortunes uncapped spinners
The spinner segment brought surprises and heartbreaks in equal measure:
Yash Punja – Snapped up by RR for Rs30 lakh
Prashant Solanki – Leggie joins KKR for Rs30 lakh
Vignesh Puthur – RR win the bid at Rs30 lakh, greeted by loud cheers from Malayali fans
Wahidullah Zadran, Shivam Shukla, Karn Sharma, Kumar Kartikeya – All go unsold, including veteran Karn Sharma despite his multiple IPL titles
Accelerated auction underway
Here’s the stars who have been sold so far:
Pathum Nissanka to Delhi Capitals for Rs4 crores
Rahul Tripathi to Kolkata Knight Riders for Rs75 lakh
Jason Holder to Gujarat Titans for Rs7 crores
Stars being sold for big amounts!
Matthew Short was sold to Chennai Super Kings for R1.5 crore
Tim Seifert sold to Kolkata Knight Riders for Rs1.50 crores
Mustafizur Rahman sold to Kolkata Knight Riders for Rs9.20 crores
Shikhar Dhawan reacts
With the auction underway, cricket great Shikhar Dhawan said it was “nice to see young players being valued, and getting such good amounts.”
He expressed his best wishes to Aquib Dar, Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma who went to different teams “with strong bids.”
He also congratulated Cameron Green on being the highest overseas buy, and the third most expensive player in IPL history.
Akshat Raghuwanshi to LSG
Akshat Raghuwanshi came up for bidding at a base price of Rs 30 lakh. After Lucknow Super Giants and Chennai Super Kings entered the bid. He was sold to LSG for Rs2.20 crore.
Going, going, gone!
Aman Khan is sold to CSK for Rs40 lakh
Satvik Deswal is sold to RCB for Rs30 lakh
Danish Malewar is sold to Mumbai Indians for Rs30 lakh
Mangesh Yadav to RCB
Mangesh Yadav, all-rounder, came up for bidding at a base price of Rs30 lakh between RCB and SRH. He was sold to RCB for Rs5.20 crore
Salil Arora to SRH
Salil Arora, who drew interest from Mumbai Indians, and Sunrisers Hyderabad, entered the auction with a base price of Rs30 lakh. He was sold for 5 times the base price, to SRH, at Rs1.5 crore.
Cricketers snapped up
Ravi Singh sold to Rajasthan Royals for Rs95 lakh
Salil Arora is sold to SRH for Rs1.5 crores
Sakib Hussain also sold to Sunrisers Hyderabad for Rs30 lakh
Mohammad Izhar is sold to Mumbai Indians for Rs30 lakh
Onkar Tarmale sold to SRH for Rs30 lakh
Connolly to Punjab Kings
Cooper Connolly, the Australian allrounder came up for bidding at a base price of Rs2 crore, and was sold to Punjab Kings at Rs3 crore.
Going at base prices
Amit Kumar, 23-year-old spinner, was picked up by SRH at base price of Rs30 lakh
Atharva Ankolekar was picked up by Mumbai at his base price of Rs30 lakhs
Praful Hinge was picked up by SRH at his base price of Rs30 lakh
Krains Fuletra was picked up by Sunrisers at his base price of Rs30 lakhs
Daksh Kamra was picked up by KKR at his base price of Rs30 lakh
Sold in an instant
The excitement is real as cricketers are sold in an instant. Sarthak Ranjan is sold to KKR for Rs30 lakh.
Break ongoing
After exciting bidding wars, huge cash amounts in the game, and a spate of lightning-fast auctioning, a break is underway. The auction is set to resume soon, bringing the audience another set of thrilling competition, as stellar cricketers go under the hammer.
Another round of accelerated auction
And the action resumes! Sarfaraz Khan sold to Chennai Super Kings at a base price of Rs75 lakh.
Liam Livingstone to SRH
Liam Livingstone, the England right-handed batter and spin bowling all rounder, was sold to Sunrisers Hyderabad for a whopping Rs13 crores. His bid, which started at a base price of Rs2 crore, triggered a fierce contest involving KKR, SRH, Gujarat Titans, and LSG.
Its all in the name
The accelerated auction is exactly that – fast. Cricketers are going to different teams in an extremely short span; take a look at which player is at what team:
Rachin Ravindra to KKR for Rs2 crores
Akash Deep to KKR for Rs1 crores
Matt Henry to CSK for Rs2 crores
Shivam Mavi to SRH for Rs75 lakh
Rahul Chahar to CSK
Rahul Chahar came up for bidding at a base price of Rs1 crore; after Punjab and CSK entered the battle, he was sold to CSK for Rs5.20 crores.
Ben Dwarshuis to Punjab Kings
Ben Dwarshuis, the Australian left arm medium fast bowler, came up for bidding at a base price of Rs1 crore and was sold to Punjab Kings for Rs4.40 crores.
Stars swooped up
Lungi Ngidi is sold to Delhi Capitals for Rs2 crores.
Josh Inglis is sold to LSG for Rs8.6 crores
Jordan Cox to RCB for Rs75 lakhs.
Aman Rao Perala to Rajasthan Royals for Rs30 lakhs
Mayank Rawat to Mumbai Indians for Rs30 lakhs
Pravin Dubey to Punjab Kings for Rs30 lakhs
Sahil Parakh to Delhi Capitals for Rs30 lakhs
Vishal Nishad to Punjab Kings for Rs30 lakhs
Brijesh Sharma to Rajasthan Royals for Rs30 lakhs
Jack Edwards to Sunrisers Hyderabad for Rs3 crores
Round 2 ends
As Round 2 of the accelerated auction comes to an end, here’s a look at what KKR has to say about their mega-buys:
Round 3 starts
Round 3 has started, and players have already been sold:
Prithvi Shaw goes to Delhi Capitals for Rs75 lakhs
Zak Foulkes sold to Chennai Super Kings for Rs75 lakhs
Tom Banton goes to Gujarat Titans for Rs2 crores
Who’s gone where?
Adam Milne to Rajasthan Royals for Rs2.4 crores
Kuldeep Sen to RR for Rs75 lakhs
Vicky Ostwal to RCB for Rs30 lakhs
Prithviraj Yarra to Gujarat Titans for Rs30 lakhs
Luke Wood to Gujarat Titans for Rs75 lakhs
Kanishk Chouhan to RCB for Rs30 lakhs
Vihaan Malhotra to RCB for Rs30 lakhs
Kyle Jamieson to Delhi Capitals for Rs2 crores
Top 5 buys in IPL auction 2026
Fans take time off work
As the IPL auction unfolded at Etihad Arena, fans gathered to witness the bidding war, tracking the players, celebrating picks and discussing team strategies.
A group of nearly 30 fans said they “took leave from work to be here today. We adjusted our duty schedules and will make up for it later. This is something we really care about.”
Watching IPL being built
Navya and Parvathi, both Gujarat supporters, said attending the auction felt personal. Born and brought up in the UAE, they said cricket has been part of their lives since childhood. “We have been following the IPL since the first season,” said Navya. “We really wanted Venkatesh Iyer and David Miller to be picked by Gujarat. Seeing the auction live helps us understand why teams make certain decisions.”
“This is our version of match day,” said Parvathi. “We grew up watching the IPL. Today, we are watching it being built.”
That’s a wrap!
The Abu Dhabi IPL 2026 auction has certainly been one for the history books. Cameron Green became the most expensive overseas player in any franchise league worldwide, and the 3rd most expensive in IPL history.
Going, going, gone! The accelerated auction rounds saw multiple players being snapped up in instants, sold for hundreds of millions of rupees.
Young Indian cricketers got their due as Chennai Super Kings went all-in, grabbing Kartik for a whopping Rs14.20 crore, and Prashanth Veer for another Rs14.20 crore.
Sri Lankan cricketer Matheesha Pathirana was sold to KKR for Rs18 crore, becoming the second costliest player in the auction.
All in all, big money, lightning-fast bids, and fans taking time off work to watch IPL being built in front of their eyes, it’s been a night to remember.
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