The stage is set for another thrilling chapter in the Indian Premier League as the IPL 2026 mini-auction approaches. Scheduled for December 16 at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, the event will see close to 400 cricketers from a pool of over one thousand registrants go under the hammer. This mini-auction, distinct from a mega event, presents a unique challenge for franchises looking to strategically fill specific gaps in their squads.
Notable Absences Set the Stage
This year's bidding war will miss several established giants. Veterans like Faf du Plessis and Moeen Ali have opted to participate in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) instead, while Australian powerhouse Glenn Maxwell has withdrawn after 14 consecutive IPL seasons. Their absence, however, is expected to amplify the focus and financial frenzy around a cluster of dynamic, younger talents who are ready to command top dollar.
Five Cricketers Primed for a Major Payday
The auction dynamics, influenced by team requirements and purse strengths, highlight several players who could spark intense bidding wars. Here are five cricketers likely to attract massive contracts in the IPL 2026 mini-auction.
Cameron Green: The Premium All-Rounder
Australian Cameron Green stands out as the archetypal modern cricketer every franchise craves. A genuine pace-bowling all-rounder, he provides solidity to any batting order with his explosive right-handed strokeplay. His rare ability to bowl medium-fast makes him a double-edged sword. Having already scored an IPL century for Mumbai Indians in 2023 before his trade to RCB in 2024, Green brings proven performance. With teams like KKR and CSK entering the auction with hefty purses, a fierce contest for his services is almost guaranteed.
Ravi Bishnoi: The Surprising Spin Release
In a move that raised eyebrows, Lucknow Super Giants released leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi during the retention window. This decision has made the talented wrist-spinner one of the most sought-after players available. Boasting an impressive record of 72 wickets in the IPL and 61 scalps in 42 T20Is for India, Bishnoi has consistently taken around 12 wickets per season. At a time when most top spin options are retained, his availability creates a golden opportunity for teams needing a wicket-taking bowler in the middle overs.
Liam Livingstone: The Power-Hitting Maverick
England's Liam Livingstone may not be an IPL regular since his 2019 debut, but his market value never dips. Franchises globally covet his brutal, game-changing power-hitting. What makes him exceptionally valuable is his dual spin-bowling capability, offering both off-spin and leg-spin options. With a staggering strike rate of around 158 in the IPL, Livingstone's prowess to finish innings from the middle-order makes him a strategic asset for any team looking for firepower.
Venkatesh Iyer: The Versatile Indian Asset
Indian all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer is a proven performer seeking redemption. His versatility allows him to bat effectively as an opener or in the middle order, complemented by handy medium-pace bowling. Despite being bought for a staggering ₹23.75 crore by KKR in last year's auction, a below-par season in IPL 2025 led to his release. His proven track record and Indian nationality make him a prime candidate for franchises looking to secure a flexible, domestic star who can adapt to multiple roles.
Matheesha Pathirana: The Death-Over Specialist
Dubbed 'Baby Malinga' for his slingy action reminiscent of the Sri Lankan legend, Matheesha Pathirana is a specialist in the most high-pressure phase: the death overs. His ability to consistently bowl yorkers and pick crucial late wickets makes him a rare and valuable commodity. Released by Chennai Super Kings primarily due to injury concerns, his unique skill set is expected to trigger a significant bidding war among teams desperate for a reliable death bowler.
The Auction Awaits
With less than two weeks to go, the final pruned list from the BCCI is awaited. The mini-auction on December 16 in Abu Dhabi promises high drama, strategic gambles, and life-changing deals for these talented cricketers. While stars like du Plessis and Maxwell will be absent, the spotlight will firmly be on this next generation of players ready to define the future of the IPL.
