As the Indian cricket team battles South Africa, the business side of the sport is heating up for the Indian Premier League's (IPL) 2026 mini-auction. Scheduled for December 16 in Abu Dhabi, the one-day event will see franchises vying for talent, with a significant group of players entering at the highest base price.
Star-Studded ₹2 Crore Club
According to a report by Cricbuzz, more than 40 players have registered for the auction with a base price of ₹2 crore. This elite bracket features a mix of established international stars and promising Indian talent. Notably, only two Indian players have placed themselves in this top tier: all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer and spinner Ravi Bishnoi.
Venkatesh Iyer's inclusion is particularly interesting. The Madhya Pradesh player, who was bought by Kolkata Knight Riders for ₹23.75 crores in a previous mega auction, was released by the franchise during the recent retention window. He now enters the auction pool seeking a new team at a ₹2 crore reserve price.
Global Talent in the High-Value Bracket
The list of overseas players with a ₹2 crore base price is extensive and reads like a who's who of T20 cricket. Key names from major cricketing nations highlight the international appeal of the IPL auction.
From Australia, power-hitters and all-rounders like Cameron Green and Jake Fraser-McGurk are listed, alongside experienced campaigners such as Steve Smith. New Zealand's contingent is strong, featuring the dynamic Rachin Ravindra and the reliable Daryl Mitchell.
Other notable overseas entries include England's explosive Liam Livingstone, South Africa's pace sensation Gerald Coetzee, and Sri Lanka's mystery spinner Wanindu Hasaranga. The presence of players from associate nations and emerging cricketing countries underscores the IPL's global scouting network.
Initial Pool and Final List Awaited
The initial registration process has seen a massive response. The report mentions a 13-page excel sheet containing 1355 players in total. This broad list comprises 1062 Indian cricketers and 293 overseas players.
However, this is not the final roster that will go under the hammer. The list is expected to be pruned significantly by the IPL governing council and the franchises. A concise final list of players who will actually participate in the December 16 auction is anticipated to be released officially soon.
The upcoming mini-auction, distinct from a mega auction where teams see larger overhauls, allows franchises to strategically fill specific gaps in their squads. With several big names available at the premium base price, the bidding in Abu Dhabi promises to be intense as teams look to build a balanced side for the IPL 2026 season.
