The IPL 2026 mini-auction in Abu Dhabi saw Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) secure Australian all-rounder Cameron Green for a record-breaking ₹25.20 crore, making him the most expensive overseas player in IPL history. However, a telling moment occurred early in the bidding war when Mumbai Indians (MI) quickly bowed out of the race, a decision underscored by Anant Ambani's visible reaction that spoke volumes about the team's severely limited purse.
MI entered the auction with a mere ₹2.75 crore, the smallest purse among all ten franchises. This constraint effectively sidelined them from seriously competing for marquee players like Green. As the bidding for Green escalated rapidly, MI initiated the bidding at his base price of ₹2 crore but swiftly withdrew. Anant Ambani's reaction, captured on camera, became a talking point, symbolizing the stark reality of MI's financial limitations at this auction.
Kolkata Knight Riders, boasting the largest purse at ₹64.30 crore, strategically outmaneuvered Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to acquire Green. Green's all-round abilities and potential for longevity made him a prime target for KKR, who are looking to rebuild after a turbulent season.
Despite the hefty price tag, Green will receive ₹18 crore, in accordance with IPL rules that stipulate a maximum salary for overseas players. The remaining ₹7.20 crore will be allocated to a BCCI player development program. Green has previously played for Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, having scored 707 runs and taken 16 wickets in 29 IPL matches.
Apart from Green, KKR also acquired Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana for ₹18 crore. Meanwhile, some notable Indian players like Prithvi Shaw and Sarfaraz Khan went unsold, despite strong domestic performances. Quinton de Kock returned to Mumbai Indians for his base price of ₹1 crore.
The IPL 2026 mini-auction saw 369 players in the pool, with 77 slots available across the ten franchises. With a total purse of ₹237.55 crore among all teams, the auction was about fine-tuning squads, with teams like KKR, CSK, and Sunrisers Hyderabad expected to be the most active. The event also highlighted the varying financial strategies of the franchises, with MI's situation serving as a contrast to KKR's aggressive bidding.
