The IPL 2026 mini-auction is set to commence on December 16 in Abu Dhabi, where franchises will vie for a pool of 359 players to fill the remaining 77 slots. With a combined purse of ₹237.55 crore, teams will be aiming to strategically reinforce their squads. Several players are anticipated to spark intense bidding wars, with their potential to command high prices driven by a combination of factors, including all-round abilities, specialized skills, and scarcity in the market.

Cameron Green

Australian all-rounder Cameron Green is widely expected to be the top draw at the auction. Green's ability to contribute with both bat and ball, coupled with his elite fielding skills, makes him a highly sought-after prospect. Experts predict that he could fetch a price between INR 25-28 crore. Despite missing the IPL 2025 season due to back surgery, Green has showcased his potential in previous seasons, representing Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Furthermore, Green's strategic decision to list himself as a batter could further enhance his appeal, potentially triggering an even more intense bidding war. Several teams, including Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), are likely to target him as a replacement for Andre Russell, who has transitioned into a power coach role. KKR's substantial purse of ₹64.30 crore gives them the financial muscle to aggressively pursue Green.

Matheesha Pathirana

Sri Lankan fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana is another player expected to attract significant interest at the auction. Often referred to as "Baby Malinga" due to his slingy action and ability to execute yorkers, Pathirana has emerged as a promising T20 bowler. He played a key role in Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) IPL 2023 triumph, picking up 19 wickets. Although his performance in the 2025 season was underwhelming, his unique death-bowling skillset makes him a valuable asset for any team. CSK, with a purse of ₹43.40 crore, are likely to chase him at the auction table.

Ravi Bishnoi

Indian leg spinner Ravi Bishnoi is also expected to be in high demand. Despite being released by Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) ahead of the auction, Bishnoi has a proven track record in the IPL. He had an impressive 2023 season, claiming 16 wickets at an average of 24.43 and an economy rate of 7.74. Bishnoi's ability to provide crucial breakthroughs in the middle overs makes him a valuable addition to any team's bowling attack. Moreover, Indian players like Bishnoi tend to fetch high prices in mini-auctions due to their reliability and the willingness of teams to overpay for capped wrist-spinners.

The IPL 2026 mini-auction promises to be an exciting event, with teams looking to strategically strengthen their squads. While Cameron Green, Matheesha Pathirana, and Ravi Bishnoi are expected to be among the highest-priced players, the unpredictable nature of auctions could lead to some surprises. With the auction just around the corner, fans and franchises alike are eagerly anticipating the bidding wars and strategic moves that will shape the landscape of IPL 2026.