The much-anticipated player auction for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season concluded with significant deals and surprises, setting the stage for the upcoming tournament. The event saw franchises strategically bidding to build their ideal squads for the competition.
Key Highlights and Major Buys
One of the notable transactions of the day was Delhi Capitals acquiring the explosive Indian batsman Prithvi Shaw for his base price of Rs 75 lakh. Shaw, known for his aggressive batting at the top of the order, will be a crucial addition to the Capitals' lineup as they aim to strengthen their batting firepower.
The auction room witnessed intense bidding wars for several marquee and uncapped players, reflecting the teams' plans to fill specific gaps in their rosters. While some big names fetched high prices, others found teams at their base valuation, making for a balanced and strategic auction process.
Complete IPL 2026 Squad Overview
Following the auction, all ten franchises have finalized their squads for IPL 2026. Each team's management worked meticulously to assemble a mix of experienced international stars, reliable Indian core players, and promising young talent. The updated squad lists reveal the strategic direction each franchise is taking, with some focusing on bolstering their bowling attacks and others reinforcing their middle order.
The final teams now have a blend of retained players, those bought in previous auctions, and the new additions from this 2026 auction. This combination will be vital for managing player form, fitness, and the long tournament schedule.
Sold and Unsold Players List
A comprehensive list of all players who were sold and those who remained unsold has been released. This list provides a clear picture of the current market demand for different player roles and skillsets in the T20 format. Several young domestic talents earned their maiden IPL contracts, while a few experienced players went unsold, indicating a shift towards building for the future.
With the auction concluded, the focus for all teams now shifts to pre-season preparations, training camps, and formulating game plans. The combinations formed during this auction will be tested when IPL 2026 kicks off, promising another season of high-octane cricket entertainment.
