IPL mini auction: Venkatesh Iyer set to ‘Play Bold’ in IPL 2026; Big names go unsold

The IPL 2026 mini auction underway in Abu Dhabi has delivered early surprises, with Cameron Green fetching a record price while several star players failed to find buyers.

The IPL 2026 mini auction is currently underway in Abu Dhabi, with franchises carefully evaluating players as they build their squads for the upcoming season. The auction has already produced major headlines, featuring record-breaking bids, calculated buys, and unexpected snubs.

Australian all-rounder Cameron Green emerged as the biggest highlight of the auction so far. Green was sold for a massive ₹25.20 crore to Kolkata Knight Riders, making him the most expensive overseas player in IPL auction history. The sale set a new benchmark early in the auction process and reflected strong demand for proven all-rounders.

Also Read:KKR snap up Cameron Green for ₹25.20 crore at IPL 2026 mini auction

Green’s record-breaking deal stood out in a day that also saw several teams strengthening their line-ups with targeted purchases. Delhi Capitals secured experienced batter David Miller for ₹2 crore, while Lucknow Super Giants picked up Sri Lankan all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga for the same amount. Mumbai Indians brought back familiar face Quinton de Kock for ₹1 crore, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru added Indian all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer to their squad for ₹7 crore.

While some players walked away with contracts, the auction also delivered major shocks. Several high-profile cricketers remained unsold despite expectations of strong bidding. These included Prithvi Shaw, Jack Fraser-McGurk, Devon Conway, Liam Livingstone, Deepak Hooda, and Rachin Ravindra.

With more rounds still to come, teams are expected to make further strategic moves as they finalise their squads for IPL 2026.