Lights, Camera, Auction - IPL 2026 edition
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The IPL 2026 player auction takes place December 16, 2025, at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi. Which teams will spend big on Green, Pathirana, and Iyer?
Abu Dhabi's Etihad Arena, fresh off hosting Cristiano Ronaldo, is set to host another major sporting event: the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) Player Auction on Tuesday, December 16, 2025. Franchises will be bidding for players, potentially spending huge sums.
Since its debut in 2008, the IPL auction has become a major event, rivaling the actual cricket matches in popularity. Despite some debate about whether the auction's appeal has diminished due to the potential absence of stars like Andre Russell, Glenn Maxwell, and Faf du Plessis, anticipation is high as team strategists gather in the United Arab Emirates.
Australian all-rounder Cameron Green is expected to be a sought-after player, especially now that he's confirmed he can bowl. Matheesha Pathirana, a Sri Lankan fast bowler released by Chennai Super Kings, could also spark a bidding war, although his fitness is a concern.
Several Indian players will be hoping for high bids, including Venkatesh Iyer and Ravi Bishnoi. Both were released after earning significant salaries last season, ₹23.75 crore and ₹11 crore, respectively, and will be looking to approach those figures again.
Mumbai Indians, with the smallest available budget (₹2.75 crore), and Punjab Kings, who have only four roster spots to fill, are expected to be less active in the bidding. Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are likely to be the focus of attention. These two teams control over 40% of the total auction money and are looking to rebuild after disappointing IPL 2025 seasons. Both franchises might target Green and Venkatesh, and their choices of overseas pace bowlers will be closely watched. CSK is also looking for an experienced Indian spin bowler.
Prithvi Shaw's future is another point of interest. After going unsold in the previous year's mega-auction, he's reportedly contacted several teams. Owners are weighing his talent against concerns about his discipline. Most team representatives will participate remotely, but Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer is expected to attend the auction in person.
