CSK Sign Cameron Green for ₹21 Crore as KKR Make a Statement with Liam Livingstone in Ashwin’s Mock Auction

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) secured Australian all-rounder Cameron Green for a massive ₹21 crore, while Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) responded by snapping up England power-hitter Liam Livingstone for ₹18.5 crore in Ravichandran Ashwin’s popular YouTube mock auction series, Winning Bid.

KKR’s decision to step away from the Cameron Green bidding at ₹21 crore became one of the defining moments of the auction, especially since the franchise later went equally hard for Livingstone. The contrasting buys underlined two different team-building philosophies—balance versus impact—making the episode one of the most talked-about instalments of the series.

What is ‘Winning Bid’?

Winning Bid is Ashwin’s auction-themed YouTube show, designed as an entertainment-driven mock IPL auction. Former players, analysts and guests bid as franchise tables, with Ashwin acting as the auctioneer. The show recreates real IPL auction pressure, complete with bidding wars, strategic withdrawals and dramatic “sold” calls.

How the Cameron Green Bidding Unfolded

In the opening episode of Season 2, Cameron Green emerged as the first marquee attraction. Starting with a base price of ₹2 crore, the bidding quickly escalated as Delhi and Lucknow locked horns. Chennai Super Kings soon entered the fray, pushing the price higher.

When KKR joined the contest, the auction pace shifted dramatically. Rapid bids followed, and once the amount touched ₹21 crore, KKR chose to bow out. CSK seized the moment and closed the deal, landing Green for the highest price of the mock auction so far.

Green’s profile explains the frenzy. A rare three-dimensional cricketer, he offers middle-order batting, seam-bowling depth and elite athleticism in the field. However, such a premium all-rounder also forces teams to shape their entire playing XI around him. Seen in that light, KKR’s withdrawal was viewed less as hesitation and more as a calculated price-point call on a high-value asset.

There is also added intrigue around Green’s valuation, with discussions suggesting that auction figures beyond ₹18 crore may involve complex retention and salary-cap calculations—an element that has already become part of early IPL 2026 chatter.

KKR’s Counter-Move: Liam Livingstone

KKR wasted little time in making a bold counterpunch. When England’s Liam Livingstone came up for bidding, another intense battle followed, ending with Kolkata securing the explosive all-rounder for ₹18.5 crore.

While the price was slightly lower than Green’s, Livingstone represents a very different promise. Known for his brute power, fearless approach and match-turning ability, he offers instant impact rather than structural balance. Livingstone’s presence can transform chases within a few overs and intimidate opposition bowling attacks through sheer hitting power.

Two Philosophies, Two Headline Buys

The mock auction perfectly captured the contrast between the two franchises’ approaches. CSK went for Cameron Green, a long-term, multi-skill investment around whom a team can be built. KKR, on the other hand, chose disruption and firepower, backing Livingstone as a game-changer who can tilt matches decisively.

By allowing CSK to take the Cameron Green headline, KKR ensured they still walked away with a marquee signing of their own. The result was a compelling narrative that showcased how different teams value different skill sets—even when operating with similarly aggressive budgets.

Ashwin’s Winning Bid once again delivered drama, insight and debate, offering fans a fascinating glimpse into the strategic thinking that shapes high-stakes auction rooms.