IPL 2026 Auction Overview
The much-anticipated IPL 2026 auction took place in Abu Dhabi on December 16, 2025. As expected, excitement surged through the fan base as high-profile players went under the hammer. Australian all-rounder Cameron Green emerged as the highlight, fetching a staggering ?25.20 crore, making him the most expensive overseas player in IPL history.
Record Purchases at the Auction
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) made headlines not just with Green’s purchase but also with Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana, who was bought for ?18 crore. This mini-auction allowed for a total of 77 slots, including 31 overseas slots, leading to some thrilling bids.
Top Purchases in IPL 2026
| Player | Price (INR) |
|---|
| Cameron Green | ?25.20 crore |
| Matheesha Pathirana | ?18 crore |
| Kartik Sharma | ?14.2 crore |
| Prashant Veer | ?14.2 crore |
Surprising Unsold Players
Despite the excitement, several notable players went unsold during this mini-auction, leaving fans and experts alike shocked. Among them were renowned names like Devon Conway and Steve Smith, highlighting the unpredictable nature of player valuations in the IPL.
List of Unsold Players
| Player | Base Price (INR) |
|---|
| Devon Conway | ?2 crore |
| Steve Smith | ?2 crore |
| Daryl Mitchell | ?2 crore |
| Jonny Bairstow | ?1 crore |
| Gerald Coetzee | ?2 crore |
| Gus Atkinson | ?2 crore |
| Mujeeb Ur Rahman | ?2 crore |
Conclusion
The IPL 2026 auction was not only a showcase of skyrocketing player value but also a testament to the evolving strategies of franchises. As the tournament progresses, fans await further updates on team formations and player performances.