Introduction: IPL 2026 Mini Auction Set for Historic Abu Dhabi Event
The Indian Premier League 2026 mini auction is scheduled for Monday, December 16, 2025 at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, UAE, marking the third consecutive year the IPL auction takes place outside India. With 359 players shortlisted from an initial pool of 1,390 registered cricketers, ten franchises will compete to fill 77 available slots with a combined auction purse of ₹237.55 crore, setting the stage for intense bidding wars and strategic squad-building ahead of the 2026 season.
The IPL 2026 auction represents a critical opportunity for franchises to fine-tune their squads following the November 15 retention deadline that saw 173 players retained across all teams—including 124 Indians and 49 overseas cricketers. With Punjab Kings leading retention numbers at 21 players and Gujarat Titans close behind with 20, teams have adopted vastly different strategies, with Kolkata Knight Riders entering the auction with the largest remaining purse of ₹64.30 crore while Mumbai Indians have just ₹2.75 crore to spend.
This comprehensive guide covers everything about the IPL 2026 mini auction including the complete player list with base prices, team-wise remaining purse and slots, retention analysis, top targets likely to fetch big money, major trades already completed (Sanju Samson-Ravindra Jadeja blockbuster swap), auction rules and format, where and how to watch live, expert predictions for biggest buys, and detailed team-by-team strategies as franchises prepare for one of the most anticipated auctions in recent IPL history.
If you are new to cricket or watching IPL for the first time, we recommend reading our
beginner-friendly guide to understanding cricket rules
to easily follow how the IPL auction and matches work.
IPL 2026 Auction: Date, Time, Venue and Format
Official Auction Details
Date: Monday, December 16, 2025 Venue: Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi, UAE Start Time: 2:30 PM IST (1:00 PM UAE Time) Duration: One-day event (approximately 8-10 hours) Format: Mini Auction (not mega auction)
Why Abu Dhabi for Third Consecutive Overseas Auction
The BCCI’s decision to host the IPL 2026 auction in Abu Dhabi continues the trend of overseas venues:
- IPL 2024 Auction: Dubai, UAE (first overseas auction)
- IPL 2025 Mega Auction: Jeddah, Saudi Arabia (November 2024)
- IPL 2026 Mini Auction: Abu Dhabi, UAE
Reasons for Overseas Venue:
- State-of-the-art facilities at Etihad Arena
- Neutral location accessible to international players
- Professional event management infrastructure
- Facilitates global participation and media coverage
- Avoids domestic logistical complexities
Auction Format and Structure
Opening Phase:
- Begins with capped players (114 total)
- Categories: Batsmen, All-rounders, Wicketkeeper-batsmen, Fast bowlers, Spinners
- Maximum base price: ₹2 crore (40 players in this bracket)
Second Phase:
- Uncapped players (245 total: 230 Indians + 15 overseas)
- Lower base prices: ₹20 lakh, ₹30 lakh, ₹40 lakh, ₹50 lakh, ₹75 lakh
Accelerated Process (After First 70 Players):
- Faster bidding for players 71-350
- Franchises submit requests for specific unsold players
- Prevents auction dragging unnecessarily
Complete IPL 2026 Auction Player List: All 359 Shortlisted Cricketers
Player Pool Breakdown
Total Registered: 1,390 players Shortlisted: 359 players Indian Players: 246 (244 according to some sources) Overseas Players: 113-115
Capped vs Uncapped:
- Capped Players: 114 (international experience)
- Uncapped Indians: 230
- Uncapped Overseas: 15
Country-Wise Representation:
- India: 246
- Australia: 20
- England: 21
- South Africa: 16
- New Zealand: 16
- Afghanistan: 10
- West Indies: 9
- Sri Lanka: 12
- Bangladesh: 7
- Ireland: 1
- Malaysia: 1
Players with ₹2 Crore Base Price (Top 40)
These marquee players will likely attract the fiercest bidding:
Indian Players (₹2 Crore Base):
- Venkatesh Iyer (All-rounder) – Former KKR star, explosive batting + bowling
- Ravi Bishnoi (Spinner) – Consistent IPL performer, leg-spin wizard
- Sarfaraz Khan (Batsman) – Domestic run-machine, Mumbai Indians connection
- Prithvi Shaw (Batsman) – Explosive opener, needs fresh start
- Mohammed Siraj (Fast Bowler) – Indian pacer, swing and seam
- K.L. Rahul (Wicketkeeper-Batsman) – If available, premium keeper-batter
- Rishabh Pant (Wicketkeeper-Batsman) – If available, most expensive IPL player potential
- Ishan Kishan (Wicketkeeper-Batsman) – Power-hitting keeper option
- Washington Sundar (All-rounder) – Left-arm spin + batting depth
- Kuldeep Yadav (Spinner) – Wrist-spin match-winner
Overseas Players (₹2 Crore Base):
- Cameron Green (Australia, All-rounder) – Missed 2025 due to injury, now fit
- Steve Smith (Australia, Batsman) – Former captain, experience and class
- David Miller (South Africa, Batsman) – Finisher extraordinaire, IPL proven
- Quinton de Kock (South Africa, Wicketkeeper) – Late addition, reversed retirement
- Devon Conway (New Zealand, Batsman) – Left-handed opener, consistent
- Jake Fraser-McGurk (Australia, Batsman) – Young explosive opener
- Glenn Phillips (New Zealand, All-rounder) – Power-hitter + part-time bowler
- Kagiso Rabada (South Africa, Fast Bowler) – World-class pacer
- Anrich Nortje (South Africa, Fast Bowler) – Express pace, wicket-taker
- Marcus Stoinis (Australia, All-rounder) – Big-hitting all-rounder
Additional Notable Names:
- Josh Hazlewood (Australia, Fast Bowler)
- Mitchell Marsh (Australia, All-rounder)
- Moeen Ali (England, All-rounder) – Opted out
- Glenn Maxwell (Australia, All-rounder) – OPTED OUT
- Faf du Plessis (South Africa, Batsman) – OPTED OUT
Age Extremes in Auction Pool
Oldest Player: Jalaj Saxena (India) – 39 years old Youngest Player: Wahidullah Zadran (Afghanistan) – 18 years old
Team-Wise Purse and Slots: Complete Breakdown
Remaining Budget and Available Positions
| Team | Remaining Purse | Retained Players | Slots Available | Overseas Slots |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) | ₹64.30 crore | 15 | 10 | 5 |
| Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) | ₹44 crore | 16 | 9 | 4 |
| Delhi Capitals (DC) | ₹40.50 crore | 16 | 9 | 4 |
| Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) | ₹38.15 crore | 17 | 8 | 3 |
| Chennai Super Kings (CSK) | ₹35 crore | 17 | 8 | 3 |
| Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) | ₹27.50 crore | 18 | 7 | 2 |
| Mumbai Indians (MI) | ₹2.75 crore | 24 | 1 | 0 |
| Rajasthan Royals (RR) | ₹16.05 crore | 16 | 9 | 1 |
| Gujarat Titans (GT) | ₹18 crore | 20 | 5 | 1 |
| Punjab Kings (PBKS) | ₹21.25 crore | 21 | 4 | 1 |
Total Auction Economics
Combined Purse: ₹237.55 crore Maximum Squad Size: 25 players per team Total Slots to Fill: 77 positions Overseas Slots: 31 positions Indian Slots: 46 positions
Major Pre-Auction Trades: Blockbuster Swaps Completed
The pre-auction trading window (opened after IPL 2025, closes one week before auction) has already seen significant movement:
1. Sanju Samson to Chennai Super Kings (Biggest Trade)
The Deal:
- CSK Receives: Sanju Samson (Indian wicketkeeper-batsman, captain)
- RR Receives: Ravindra Jadeja (Indian all-rounder), Sam Curran (English all-rounder), Donovan Ferreira (South African batsman)
Why It Matters:
- Samson brings explosive batting and captaincy to CSK
- Solves CSK’s wicketkeeping dilemma
- RR gets proven match-winners in Jadeja and Curran
- Jadeja returns to RR (played for them 2008-2011)
Trade Analysis:
- CSK: Gains dynamic wicketkeeper-captain, loses two all-rounders
- RR: Massive gain in all-rounder depth, loses star keeper
2. Other Confirmed Trades
Trade #2-4: Details of three other trades confirmed but specific players not fully disclosed in sources. Involves five teams total across four trades.
Trading Window Rules
Timeline:
- Opened: After IPL 2025 season conclusion
- First Closure: One week before December 16 auction
- Reopens: After auction until one month before IPL 2026 starts
Restrictions:
- Cannot trade players bought at 2026 auction
- Mutual agreement between teams required
- BCCI approval necessary
- Must fit within salary cap rules
Team-by-Team Auction Strategies and Top Targets
1. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) – Highest Purse
Remaining Budget: ₹64.30 crore Slots: 10 (5 Indian, 5 overseas)
Retained Core:
- Rinku Singh, Varun Chakravarthy, Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Harshit Rana, Ramandeep Singh (6 total), plus 9 others
What They Need:
- Opening batsman (released Venkatesh Iyer to market)
- Fast bowlers (Indian and overseas)
- Middle-order batting depth
Likely Targets:
- Cameron Green (₹15-20 crore bid expected)
- Jake Fraser-McGurk (₹8-12 crore)
- Mohammed Siraj (₹10-14 crore)
- Prithvi Shaw (₹5-8 crore)
Strategy: With massive purse, KKR can afford 2-3 marquee signings. May use RTM if Venkatesh Iyer prices are reasonable.
2. Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)
Remaining Budget: ₹44 crore Slots: 9 (5 Indian, 4 overseas)
Retained Core:
- Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Yash Dayal (3 confirmed), plus others
What They Need:
- Wicketkeeper-batsman (critical need)
- Opening partner for Kohli
- Quality spinners
- Death bowling options
Likely Targets:
- Quinton de Kock (₹12-16 crore)
- Ishan Kishan (₹10-15 crore)
- Ravi Bishnoi (₹12-16 crore)
- Steve Smith (₹6-10 crore)
Strategy: RCB historically overpays for players. Need to be strategic, not emotional bidders.
3. Delhi Capitals (DC)
Remaining Budget: ₹40.50 crore Slots: 9 (5 Indian, 4 overseas)
Retained Core:
- Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Tristan Stubbs, Abishek Porel
What They Need:
- Top-order batsmen
- Fast bowling options
- Overseas all-rounder
- Backup wicketkeeper
Likely Targets:
- David Miller (₹10-14 crore)
- Mitchell Marsh (₹8-12 crore)
- Sarfaraz Khan (₹8-12 crore)
- Josh Hazlewood (₹8-11 crore)
Strategy: Build balanced squad, avoid single mega-purchase.
4. Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)
Remaining Budget: ₹38.15 crore Slots: 8 (5 Indian, 3 overseas)
Retained Core:
- Pat Cummins, Abhishek Sharma, Nitish Reddy, Heinrich Klaasen, Travis Head (5 key players)
What They Need:
- Indian fast bowlers
- Spin bowling options
- Middle-order Indian batsmen
- Backup overseas options
Likely Targets:
- Venkatesh Iyer (₹10-15 crore)
- Washington Sundar (₹8-12 crore)
- Mohammed Siraj (₹8-12 crore)
Strategy: Fill gaps surgically, maintain core strength.
5. Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
Remaining Budget: ₹35 crore Slots: 8 (5 Indian, 3 overseas)
Retained Core:
- Ruturaj Gaikwad, Matheesha Pathirana, Shivam Dube, MS Dhoni (₹4 crore uncapped retention)
Post-Trade Addition:
- Sanju Samson (acquired via trade, solves wicketkeeping)
What They Need:
- Quality fast bowlers (Indian and overseas)
- Spin bowling options
- Middle-order depth
Likely Targets:
- Kagiso Rabada (₹10-14 crore)
- Anrich Nortje (₹8-12 crore)
- Ravi Bishnoi (if available, ₹10-14 crore)
Strategy: With Samson secured, focus on bowling attack.
6. Mumbai Indians (MI) – Smallest Purse
Remaining Budget: ₹2.75 crore Slots: 1 (1 Indian, 0 overseas)
Retained Core:
- Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Rohit Sharma, Tilak Varma (5 stars), plus 19 others = 24 total
What They Need:
- One specialist (likely Indian fast bowler or spinner)
Likely Targets:
- Any quality Indian bowler under ₹2.75 crore
- Limited options due to tiny purse
Strategy: Fill final slot with best available player within budget. No flexibility.
7. Rajasthan Royals (RR)
Remaining Budget: ₹16.05 crore Slots: 9 (8 Indian, 1 overseas)
Retained Core:
- Yashasvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Sandeep Sharma
Post-Trade Additions:
- Ravindra Jadeja, Sam Curran, Donovan Ferreira (received from CSK)
What They Need:
- One quality overseas player
- Indian batting depth
- Fast bowling options
Likely Targets:
- Cameron Green (₹12-16 crore) – if they push
- Devon Conway (₹8-12 crore)
- Indian uncapped talents
Strategy: Limited purse, be strategic with single overseas slot.
8. Gujarat Titans (GT)
Remaining Budget: ₹18 crore Slots: 5 (4 Indian, 1 overseas)
Retained Core:
- Rashid Khan, Shubman Gill, Sai Sudharsan, Rahul Tewatia, Shahrukh Khan, plus 15 others = 20 total
What They Need:
- One impact overseas player
- Specialist Indian bowlers
- Backup batsmen
Likely Targets:
- Marcus Stoinis (₹6-10 crore)
- Glenn Phillips (₹5-8 crore)
Strategy: Minimal slots, targeted acquisitions only.
9. Punjab Kings (PBKS)
Remaining Budget: ₹21.25 crore Slots: 4 (3 Indian, 1 overseas)
Retained Core:
- 21 players retained (highest retention count)
What They Need:
- Fine-tuning existing squad
- One overseas finisher
- Specialist roles
Likely Targets:
- Targeted acquisitions for specific gaps
Strategy: Squad nearly complete, surgical additions only.
10. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)
Remaining Budget: ₹27.50 crore Slots: 7 (5 Indian, 2 overseas)
Retained Core:
- Nicholas Pooran, Ravi Bishnoi (if retained), Mayank Yadav, Mohsin Khan, Ayush Badoni
What They Need:
- Top-order batsmen
- Quality overseas options
- All-rounders
Likely Targets:
- Steve Smith (₹8-12 crore)
- Prithvi Shaw (₹6-10 crore)
- Washington Sundar (₹8-12 crore)
Strategy: Moderate purse, build balanced additions.
Expected Biggest Buys and Bidding War Predictions
Players Likely to Cross ₹15 Crore
1. Cameron Green (Australia, All-rounder)
- Predicted Price: ₹18-22 crore
- Why: Returns after injury, premium all-rounder, multiple teams need him
- Competing Teams: KKR, RCB, CSK, RR
2. Venkatesh Iyer (India, All-rounder)
- Predicted Price: ₹15-20 crore
- Why: Former KKR star, explosive batting, bowling option
- Competing Teams: SRH, DC, LSG, CSK (KKR RTM possible)
3. Quinton de Kock (South Africa, Wicketkeeper)
- Predicted Price: ₹14-18 crore
- Why: Late addition, reversed retirement, premium keeper scarce
- Competing Teams: RCB, DC, GT
Players Likely to Fetch ₹10-15 Crore
- Ravi Bishnoi (₹12-16 crore) – Leg-spin gold
- David Miller (₹11-15 crore) – Proven finisher
- Ishan Kishan (₹10-14 crore) – Wicketkeeper-batsman
- Kagiso Rabada (₹11-15 crore) – World-class pacer
- Jake Fraser-McGurk (₹10-14 crore) – Young explosive talent
- Mohammed Siraj (₹10-14 crore) – Indian pace spearhead
- Sarfaraz Khan (₹9-13 crore) – Domestic run-machine
Surprise Bargains Predicted
- Steve Smith (₹6-9 crore) – Age factor, form concerns
- Prithvi Shaw (₹4-7 crore) – Discipline issues, talent undeniable
- Glenn Phillips (₹5-8 crore) – Underrated power-hitter
- Washington Sundar (₹6-10 crore) – Solid all-rounder, not flashy
IPL 2026 Auction Rules and Regulations
Squad Composition Rules
Maximum Squad Size: 25 players Minimum Squad Size: 18 players Maximum Overseas Players: 8 per squad Playing XI Overseas Limit: Maximum 4 in any match
Auction Mechanics
Right to Match (RTM) Cards:
- Teams can match highest bid to retain released players
- Limited RTMs available based on retention strategy
- Must be exercised immediately after final bid
Bidding Process:
- Begins at base price
- Minimum increment: ₹5 lakh for lower base prices, ₹10-25 lakh for higher
- Auctioneer calls for bids from paddle-raising franchises
- Auction hammer falls after 3-second silence confirms final bid
Unsold Player Protocol:
- Players not receiving base price bid are “unsold”
- Can return in accelerated rounds if teams request
- Often fetch base price in second appearance
Salary Cap and Budget Rules
Total Salary Cap per Team: ₹120 crore (original) Purse Carried Forward: Varies by retention spending Minimum Spend Requirement: Teams must spend reasonable amount on स्क्वाड
Readers unfamiliar with cricket terms like overs, wickets, and all-rounders can refer to our
basic rules of cricket explained in simple language
before exploring detailed auction strategies.
Where and How to Watch IPL 2026 Auction Live
Television Broadcasting
India:
- Star Sports Network: All Star Sports channels (Hindi, English, regional)
- Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD (English)
- Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 1 Hindi HD
- Star Sports Tamil, Telugu, Kannada
International:
- Sky Sports (UK)
- Willow TV (USA/Canada)
- SuperSport (South Africa)
- Fox Sports (Australia)
Live Streaming Options
Primary Streaming (India):
- JioHotstar (Disney+ Hotstar)
- Website: www.hotstar.com
- Mobile Apps: iOS and Android
- Smart TV Apps
- Free with ads OR Premium subscription
Official IPL Platforms:
- IPL Official Website: www.iplt20.com
- IPL Mobile App: Live updates, videos, analysis
Social Media Live Updates
Real-Time Updates:
- Twitter/X: Follow @IPL, @BCCI for instant updates
- Instagram: @iplt20 for highlights and stories
- Facebook: IPL Official Page for live commentary
- YouTube: IPL Channel for highlights (post-auction)
Timing Across Key Markets
India: 2:30 PM IST UAE: 1:00 PM GST Pakistan: 2:30 PM PKT UK: 9:00 AM GMT USA (EST): 4:00 AM EST Australia (Sydney): 8:00 PM AEDT
Expert Predictions and Analysis
Key Questions Heading into Auction
1. Will Cameron Green Break ₹20 Crore Barrier?
- Likelihood: HIGH (70% chance)
- Reasoning: Missed 2025, fully fit, multiple teams desperate for quality all-rounder
2. Can Any Indian Player Match Rishabh Pant’s ₹27 Crore Record?
- Likelihood: LOW (20% chance)
- Reasoning: Mini auction, fewer slots, no generational talent like Pant available
3. Which Team Makes the Smartest Picks?
- Prediction: Kolkata Knight Riders (highest purse + proven scouting)
- Dark Horse: Rajasthan Royals (Jadeja-Curran additions already massive wins)
4. Biggest Auction Surprise?
- Prediction: Quinton de Kock fetches ₹18+ crore after late addition
- Alternative: Prithvi Shaw sold for under ₹5 crore despite talent
Franchise Auction Performance Rankings (Predicted)
1. Kolkata Knight Riders: Strategic buys with largest purse 2. Royal Challengers Bangalore: Finally addresses keeper crisis 3. Chennai Super Kings: Strengthens bowling with Samson already secured 4. Sunrisers Hyderabad: Completes balanced squad 5. Delhi Capitals: Solid additions, no standout move
Struggles Predicted:
- Mumbai Indians: One slot, minimal budget = limited impact
- Gujarat Titans/Punjab Kings: Squad nearly full, limited flexibility
Post-Auction Schedule and IPL 2026 Timeline
Key Dates After Auction
December 16, 2025: Auction Day December 17-January 10: Teams finalize coaching staff, support staff January 15-February 15: Pre-season camps begin February 20-March 10: Player arrivals and practice matches Mid-March 2026: IPL 2026 Season Begins (exact date TBA) Late May 2026: IPL 2026 Final (expected)
Season Format (Expected)
League Stage:
- 70 matches (each team plays 14 matches)
- Home and away format
- Top 4 teams qualify for playoffs
Playoffs:
- Qualifier 1: 1st vs 2nd
- Eliminator: 3rd vs 4th
- Qualifier 2: Loser of Q1 vs Winner of Eliminator
- Final: Winner of Q1 vs Winner of Q2
FAQ: IPL 2026 Auction December 16 Abu Dhabi
When is the IPL 2026 auction?
The IPL 2026 mini auction is scheduled for Monday, December 16, 2025 at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The auction will begin at 2:30 PM IST (1:00 PM UAE time) and continue for approximately 8-10 hours as a one-day event. This marks the third consecutive year the IPL auction is held outside India.
How many players are in IPL 2026 auction?
A total of 359 players are shortlisted for the IPL 2026 auction from an initial pool of 1,390 registered cricketers. The final list includes 246 Indian players and 113 overseas players, with 114 capped internationals and 245 uncapped players. Teams will compete to fill 77 available slots across all ten franchises.
Which team has the highest purse in IPL 2026 auction?
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) enter the IPL 2026 auction with the highest remaining purse of ₹64.30 crore and 10 available slots. In contrast, Mumbai Indians have the lowest purse at just ₹2.75 crore with only 1 slot remaining, having retained 24 players. The total combined purse for all teams is ₹237.55 crore.
Who are the top players with ₹2 crore base price?
Forty players have registered with the maximum base price of ₹2 crore, including Cameron Green, Venkatesh Iyer, Ravi Bishnoi, David Miller, Quinton de Kock, Steve Smith, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Mohammed Siraj, Kagiso Rabada, Sarfaraz Khan, Prithvi Shaw, and Washington Sundar. These marquee players are expected to trigger intense bidding wars.
Has Glenn Maxwell opted out of IPL 2026?
Yes, Glenn Maxwell has opted out of IPL 2026 along with Faf du Plessis and Moeen Ali. These high-profile players chose to skip the tournament, creating opportunities for other overseas all-rounders. Maxwell’s absence is significant as he’s been a consistent IPL performer and premium all-rounder option.
What is the Sanju Samson trade to Chennai Super Kings?
In the biggest pre-auction trade, Chennai Super Kings acquired Sanju Samson from Rajasthan Royals in exchange for Ravindra Jadeja, Sam Curran, and Donovan Ferreira. This blockbuster swap solves CSK’s wicketkeeping crisis while providing RR with two proven all-rounders in Jadeja and Curran. The trade was completed during the pre-auction trading window.
How to watch IPL 2026 auction live?
Watch the IPL 2026 auction live on Star Sports Network (all channels) on television in India, or stream on JioHotstar (Disney+ Hotstar) website and mobile apps starting 2:30 PM IST. International viewers can watch on Sky Sports (UK), Willow TV (USA/Canada), SuperSport (South Africa), and Fox Sports (Australia). Follow @IPL on Twitter for real-time updates.
Conclusion: IPL 2026 Auction Promises High-Stakes Drama
The IPL 2026 mini auction on December 16, 2025 in Abu Dhabi represents a pivotal moment for all ten franchises as they make final adjustments to squads ahead of the 2026 season. With 359 carefully shortlisted players competing for just 77 available slots and ₹237.55 crore in combined team purses at stake, the one-day auction promises intense bidding wars, strategic masterstrokes, and potentially some shocking surprises that will shape the competitive landscape for the upcoming tournament.
The pre-auction landscape has already been transformed by the blockbuster Sanju Samson-Ravindra Jadeja trade between Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals, while the absence of Glenn Maxwell, Faf du Plessis, and Moeen Ali creates unexpected opportunities for other overseas players. Kolkata Knight Riders’ massive ₹64.30 crore purse positions them to make multiple marquee signings, while Mumbai Indians’ minimal ₹2.75 crore budget demonstrates the consequences of aggressive retention strategies.
Key battles will center on premium all-rounders like Cameron Green and Venkatesh Iyer (both likely to exceed ₹15 crore), wicketkeeper-batsmen with Quinton de Kock’s late addition generating excitement, quality Indian pacers like Mohammed Siraj and Kagiso Rabada, and explosive young talents like Jake Fraser-McGurk who represent the future of T20 cricket. Teams with moderate purses like Royal Challengers Bangalore and Delhi Capitals face the challenge of balancing multiple needs against limited budgets.
As franchises gather at Etihad Arena with final strategies prepared after months of scouting, analysis, and negotiation, the IPL 2026 auction will determine which teams have successfully identified undervalued talent, made smart tactical acquisitions, and positioned themselves for championship contention. With live coverage beginning at 2:30 PM IST on Star Sports and JioHotstar, millions of IPL fans worldwide will witness the drama, emotion, and high-stakes decision-making that makes the IPL auction one of cricket’s most anticipated annual events.
The road to IPL 2026 championship glory begins December 16 in Abu Dhabi—where fortunes will be made, dreams will be fulfilled, and the next chapter of IPL history will be written through the power of the auction paddle.
Additional Resources and Links
Official IPL Resources
IPL Official Website: www.iplt20.com
- Complete player database
- Auction rules and regulations
- Team squad updates
- Historical auction data
BCCI Official Website: www.bcci.tv
- Official announcements
- Regulatory updates
- Press releases
Live Auction Coverage
Star Sports Network: Primary broadcaster JioHotstar: Streaming platform IPL Mobile App: Real-time updates Twitter @IPL: Instant notifications
Team Official Accounts (Social Media)
- Mumbai Indians: @mipaltan
- Chennai Super Kings: @ChennaiIPL
- Royal Challengers Bangalore: @RCBTweets
- Kolkata Knight Riders: @KKRiders
- Delhi Capitals: @DelhiCapitals
- Punjab Kings: @PunjabKingsIPL
- Rajasthan Royals: @rajasthanroyals
- Sunrisers Hyderabad: @SunRisers
- Lucknow Super Giants: @LucknowIPL
- Gujarat Titans: @gujarat_titans
Fantasy Cricket Preparation
Fantasy Platforms:
- Dream11 (www.dream11.com)
- MPL (www.mpl.live)
- MyTeam11 (www.myteam11.com)
Post-Auction Strategy:
- Analyze final squads
- Identify budget picks
- Track player form leading to IPL
- Build balanced fantasy teams
Bonus: IPL 2026 Auction Drinking Game (For Adult Fans)
Take One Sip When:
- A player goes unsold
- RCB makes an emotional bid
- Commentator says “going once, going twice”
- A franchise uses RTM card
- Base price is breached immediately
- Player sold for exactly base price
Take Two Sips When:
- Player crosses ₹10 crore
- Bidding war between 4+ teams
- Surprise team enters bidding late
- Uncapped player fetches ₹2+ crore
- Commentary mentions “value for money”
Finish Your Drink When:
- Any player crosses ₹20 crore
- New IPL auction record set
- Glenn Maxwell’s absence is mentioned (he opted out)
- First player sold is from Afghanistan
- Technical glitch delays auction
Disclaimer: Drink responsibly. This is entertainment only!
IPL 2026 Auction Bingo Card
Create your own bingo card with these predictions:
Free Space Options:
- Cameron Green goes for ₹18+ crore
- KKR makes the first big buy
- RCB overpays for a player
- Quinton de Kock surprises everyone
- Prithvi Shaw goes cheap (under ₹5 cr)
- Venkatesh Iyer to SRH
- David Miller fetches ₹12+ crore
- Steve Smith sold for under ₹10 crore
- Washington Sundar to 3+ teams bidding
- First unsold player is a pacer
- RTM used within first 10 players
- Ravi Bishnoi crosses ₹15 crore
- Jake Fraser-McGurk bidding war
- MI doesn’t buy anyone (too little purse)
- Last player sold is uncapped Indian
- Sarfaraz Khan to CSK or RCB
- Mohammad Siraj goes to purple franchise
- Wicketkeeper sold in first 5 players
- All-rounder fetches most money
- Spinner goes unsold in first round
- Australian player is top buy
- South African in top 3 buys
- Afghan player crosses ₹5 crore
- Teen sensation gets surprise bid
- Auctioneer makes a joke
How to Play: Mark off squares as events happen during auction. First to complete row/column/diagonal wins!
Historical Context: IPL Auction Records
Most Expensive Players in IPL History
- Rishabh Pant – ₹27 crore (LSG, IPL 2025)
- Shreyas Iyer – ₹26.75 crore (PBKS, IPL 2025)
- Venkatesh Iyer – ₹23.75 crore (KKR, IPL 2025)
- Mitchell Starc – ₹24.75 crore (KKR, IPL 2024)
- Pat Cummins – ₹20.5 crore (SRH, IPL 2024)
- Sam Curran – ₹18.5 crore (PBKS, IPL 2023)
- Ben Stokes – ₹16.25 crore (RPS, IPL 2017)
- Yuvraj Singh – ₹16 crore (DC, IPL 2015)
Auction Trends Over the Years
2008 (First IPL Auction):
- MS Dhoni most expensive (₹6 crore)
- Total purse: ₹40 crore per team
- 8 teams, mega auction
2014 (Mega Auction):
- Yuvraj Singh record ₹14 crore
- Introduction of RTM cards
- Player retention changes
2018 (Mega Auction):
- Ben Stokes ₹12.5 crore (then-record)
- Impact player rule discussions
- Salary cap increased
2022 (Mega Auction):
- 2 new teams added (LSG, GT)
- ₹90 crore purse per team
- Ishan Kishan ₹15.25 crore
2024 (Mega Auction – Dubai):
- First overseas auction
- Mitchell Starc record ₹24.75 crore
- Impact player rule implemented
2025 (Mega Auction – Jeddah):
- Rishabh Pant shatters records at ₹27 crore
- Shreyas Iyer second at ₹26.75 crore
- Five players cross ₹20 crore mark
2026 (Mini Auction – Abu Dhabi):
- Current auction, outcomes pending
- Predictions: Cameron Green potential record for overseas player
- Smaller pool, strategic buys expected
Impact of IPL 2026 Auction on Indian Cricket
National Team Selection Implications
IPL as Audition Platform:
- Selectors watch IPL performances closely
- Consistent IPL performers get national call-ups
- Young talents like Jitesh Sharma, Tilak Varma discovered through IPL
T20 World Cup 2026 Considerations:
- T20 World Cup scheduled for mid-2026
- IPL 2026 final chance for fringe players to impress
- Form in IPL often translates to national selection
Overseas Players and International Cricket:
- Top overseas players skip bilateral series for IPL
- Creates tension between boards and franchises
- Million-dollar contracts make IPL priority
Economic Impact
Player Earnings:
- Average IPL salary now ₹3-4 crore
- Top players earn more in 2 months than annual international contracts
- Life-changing money for domestic players
Franchise Valuations:
- IPL franchises worth ₹5,000-10,000 crore each
- Brand value increases with squad quality
- Successful auctions boost franchise stocks
Broadcasting Rights:
- Current TV rights: ₹48,390 crore for 5 years
- Digital rights: ₹23,757 crore for 5 years
- Total: ₹48,390 crore ($6.2 billion)
IPL 2026 Auction: What Happens After December 16?
Immediate Post-Auction Activities
December 17-20:
- Teams announce squad combinations
- Media interactions with coaches and captains
- Initial strategy discussions
- Jersey number allocations
December 21-31:
- Player availability confirmations
- Travel arrangements for overseas players
- Sponsor announcements
- Team photoshoots scheduling
Pre-Season Preparation (January-February 2026)
January:
- Support staff finalization
- Coaching camps announced
- Fitness assessments for all players
- Medical clearances
February:
- Pre-season training camps begin
- Practice matches between teams
- Strategy sessions intensify
- Marketing campaigns launch
Early March:
- Final squad announcements
- Playing XI experiments
- Last-minute adjustments
- Captaincy and vice-captaincy confirmations
Schedule Announcement
Expected Timeline:
- IPL 2026 schedule announced: Late January 2026
- Venues confirmed: February 2026
- Opening ceremony details: March 2026
- Broadcasting schedule: March 2026
Expert Picks: Who Wins IPL 2026 Based on Auction?
Pre-Auction Favorites (Based on Expected Buys)
Championship Contenders:
1. Kolkata Knight Riders
- Auction Advantage: Highest purse (₹64.30 cr)
- Prediction: Makes 2-3 marquee signings
- Odds: 6/1
2. Rajasthan Royals
- Auction Advantage: Already gained Jadeja + Curran
- Prediction: Completes squad intelligently
- Odds: 7/1
3. Chennai Super Kings
- Auction Advantage: Samson via trade, good purse
- Prediction: Strengthens bowling attack
- Odds: 8/1
4. Sunrisers Hyderabad
- Auction Advantage: Retain core, adequate purse
- Prediction: Fine-tunes squad
- Odds: 9/1
Dark Horses:
Royal Challengers Bangalore
- Large purse, addresses keeper crisis
- Virat Kohli still class
- Odds: 10/1
Delhi Capitals
- Young core, decent purse
- Strategic additions possible
- Odds: 12/1
Outsiders:
- Mumbai Indians: 15/1 (minimal auction impact)
- Gujarat Titans: 16/1 (limited slots)
- Lucknow Super Giants: 18/1 (rebuilding)
- Punjab Kings: 20/1 (squad nearly full)
Final Prediction: KKR or RR to win IPL 2026, with CSK as dark horse
Countdown to December 16: Days Until IPL 2026 Auction
As of article publication (December 11, 2025):
5 DAYS UNTIL AUCTION
Daily Countdown Updates:
- December 12: 4 days – Teams finalize bidding strategies
- December 13: 3 days – Players arrive in Abu Dhabi
- December 14: 2 days – Final auction rehearsals
- December 15: 1 day – Media events and press conferences
- December 16: AUCTION DAY! 🎉
Set Your Reminders:
- 📅 Monday, December 16, 2025
- ⏰ 2:30 PM IST / 1:00 PM UAE Time
- 📍 Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi
- 📺 Star Sports / JioHotstar
Final Thoughts: Why IPL 2026 Auction Matters
The IPL auction transcends mere player purchases—it represents dreams, strategies, redemption stories, and the business of cricket at its most dramatic. For players, it’s validation of their skills and hard work, potentially life-changing money for domestic cricketers, a fresh start after disappointing previous seasons, and the prestige of being wanted by franchises worth billions.
For franchises, it’s the culmination of months of scouting and analytics, critical decisions affecting championship aspirations, public relations opportunities to engage fan bases, and investment decisions with long-term implications for brand value and performance.
For fans, it’s the hope that their team makes smart choices, excitement about new players joining favorite franchises, discussion and debate fuel for months ahead, and the official start of the IPL 2026 journey even before a ball is bowled.
The December 16 auction in Abu Dhabi will be remembered as the day when championship contenders emerged, when surprise steals and shocking overpays created headlines, when careers were revitalized or questioned, and when the foundation for IPL 2026’s thrilling competition was laid.
As the cricket world turns its attention to the Etihad Arena on Monday afternoon, one truth remains certain: in the IPL auction, anything can happen, fortunes can change in seconds, and the paddle-raising decisions made in those intense hours will reverberate through the entire 2026 season.
The stage is set. The players are ready. The franchises have their strategies. The auction begins in 5 days.
Are you ready for IPL 2026 Auction Day? 🏏🔥
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Stay Updated: Follow Taja Talk for:
- Live auction updates on December 16
- Post-auction squad analysis
- IPL 2026 season preview
- Team-by-team breakdowns
- Fantasy cricket tips
Coming Soon on Taja Talk:
- Complete IPL 2026 Schedule (January)
- Team-wise Squad Analysis (Post-auction)
- Top 10 Bargain Buys of IPL 2026 Auction
- IPL 2026 Winner Predictions
- Fantasy Cricket Draft Guide
Last Updated: December 11, 2025, 12:00 PM IST Next Update: December 16, 2025 (Live Auction Coverage) Article Length: 6,800+ words Read Time: 28 minutes
Disclaimer: Player availability, base prices, and auction details are subject to change. Final confirmed information will be available on IPL official channels. Predictions and analysis are based on pre-auction information and expert opinions.
🏏 IPL 2026 AUCTION COUNTDOWN: 5 DAYS TO GO! 🏏
Mark Your Calendar: 📅 December 16, 2025 ⏰ 2:30 PM IST 📍 Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi 📺 Star Sports & JioHotstar
See you at the auction! 🎉
