IPL 2026 Auction: KKR Lands Cameron Green for ₹25.2 Crore, Sets Overseas Player Record

The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) made headlines at the IPL 2026 auction on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, by acquiring Australian all-rounder Cameron Green for a record-breaking ₹25.2 crore. This purchase makes Green the most expensive overseas player in the history of the Indian Premier League.

The battle for Green's signature saw KKR initially fend off challenges from the Rajasthan Royals, before entering a fierce bidding war with the Chennai Super Kings. Ultimately, Kolkata emerged victorious, securing the coveted Australian player.

Green's hefty price tag aligned with pre-auction expectations. Despite being initially listed as a batter – a detail Green attributed to an error by his manager – it's his all-round capabilities that made him such a desirable target for KKR. Green combines powerful hitting with the ability to bowl at speeds of 140 km/h.

Green previously played for the Mumbai Indians in the 2023 season and Royal Challengers Bengaluru in 2024. He missed the 2025 tournament due to a back injury, returning to the Australian side as a specialist batter in June. He has since received medical clearance to bowl again.

With this acquisition, Green surpasses fellow Australian Mitchell Starc as the most expensive overseas player ever bought at auction. Starc was also acquired by Kolkata Knight Riders in 2024 for ₹24.75 crore. That said, the reality is a bit more complicated. Rishabh Pant remains the costliest player overall in IPL history, following his ₹27 crore purchase by Lucknow Super Giants at the 2025 auction.