Excitement Builds for IPL 2026 Auction
The anticipation for the IPL 2026 auction is reaching a fever pitch, especially with 350 players, including 110 overseas cricketers, set to be auctioned on December 16 in Abu Dhabi. Among the available spots, 77 are open, with 31 designated for overseas talent. Several teams are expected to be aggressive in their pursuit of valuable bowlers.
Top 5 Bowlers to Watch Out For
In this article, we delve into five overseas bowlers poised to capture attention and substantial bids at the IPL 2026 auction:
| Player | Country | Base Price (INR) | Wickets (T20) | Economy Rate |
|---|
| Matheesha Pathirana | Sri Lanka | 2 Crore | 132 | 8.68 |
| Matt Henry | New Zealand | 2 Crore | 211 | 8.22 |
| Jacob Duffy | New Zealand | 2 Crore | 178 | 8.35 |
| Mujaheed Ur Rahman | Afghanistan | 2 Crore | 178 | 8.24 |
| Lungi Ngidi | South Africa | 2 Crore | 244 | 8.37 |
Matheesha Pathirana
Matheesha Pathirana's exit from the Chennai Super Kings shocked fans, given his impressive track record of 47 wickets in 32 IPL games. Since entering professional cricket, he has amassed a total of 132 wickets across 99 T20 matches, showcasing exceptional death-bowling skills.
Matt Henry
Matt Henry, the New Zealand pacer, is another name to watch this season. With 211 T20 wickets to his name and a base price of INR 2 crore, his extensive experience across various leagues makes him a sought-after player.
Jacob Duffy
New Zealand's Jacob Duffy is making waves, especially after a stellar recent performance, claiming 10 wickets in five T20Is. With 98 wickets overall in limited appearances, his form is certainly attracting interest.
Mujaheed Ur Rahman
Afghanistan's spin wizard, Mujaheed Ur Rahman, failed to secure a bid in the last mega auction but is back in the fray with a base price set at INR 2 crore. His ability to play in various leagues enhances his attractiveness for franchises.
Lungi Ngidi
Lungi Ngidi remains a formidable competitor with 244 international wickets. Although he last played for RCB in 2025, his previous success with CSK makes him a valuable asset in any team’s roster.
Conclusion
The IPL 2026 auction promises an exhilarating showcase of talent, particularly among overseas bowlers. Each player mentioned has the potential to not only transform the fortunes of their new teams but also enthrall fans with their performance. Get ready for some action-packed bidding!