IPL 2026 Auction Live Updates: Cameron Green, Venkatesh Iyer Headline Big-Spending Day for KKR and CSK

The IPL 2026 mini-auction promises high drama as franchises with deep pockets prepare to shape the narrative, while cash-strapped teams tread cautiously. With 77 slots available and a combined purse of ₹237.55 crore, Tuesday’s auction is set to revolve around a handful of high-impact players — none bigger than Cameron Green.

As teams assemble in Abu Dhabi, the market dynamics are clear. Seam-bowling all-rounders are in short supply and high demand, a combination that almost guarantees inflated bidding. Green, alongside Venkatesh Iyer and Jason Holder, sits right at the centre of that premium bracket.

KKR and CSK Set the Pace

Kolkata Knight Riders enter the auction with the strongest financial muscle — ₹64.30 crore and 13 slots to fill — as they look to rebuild after an inconsistent season. Chennai Super Kings, with ₹43.40 crore, are the only other franchise capable of matching KKR’s aggression in a bidding war.

At the other end of the spectrum, Mumbai Indians have just ₹2.75 crore left and are expected to limit their activity to uncapped players at base price. Punjab Kings (₹11.50 crore) and Gujarat Titans (₹12.90 crore) are also unlikely to go big, having largely settled squads.

Why Cameron Green Is the Auction’s Biggest Draw

Despite a modest IPL record — 704 runs and 16 wickets from 29 matches — Green’s value goes well beyond raw numbers. As a proven international cricketer who can bat in the top order and bowl pace, he fits a rare and highly sought-after profile in T20 cricket.

Mini-auctions are rarely about form alone. Franchises often pay a premium for versatility, balance, and long-term upside — and Green ticks all those boxes. With KKR and CSK both keen to add a pace-bowling all-rounder, his name is expected to spark the fiercest contest of the day.

However, even if bidding soars past record levels, Green’s salary will remain capped at ₹18 crore due to IPL regulations governing overseas players. Any amount beyond that figure will still be deducted from a franchise’s purse, but will not increase the player’s take-home pay.

Venkatesh Iyer’s Crucial Test

Few players enter this auction under more scrutiny than Venkatesh Iyer. Bought for ₹23.75 crore last season, the KKR all-rounder struggled to justify that price tag and endured his toughest IPL campaign.

With no Right To Match (RTM) card available, KKR will need to act decisively if they want him back. This time, however, expectations are more realistic. A bid in the ₹8–10 crore range would be widely viewed as fair value and could still represent a smart investment given his familiarity with the franchise and Indian conditions.

Overseas Stars and Pace Options in Demand

Beyond the marquee all-rounders, several overseas players are expected to attract strong interest:

• Liam Livingstone: England’s explosive batter remains a prized T20 asset thanks to his power-hitting and part-time spin.
• Quinton de Kock: A reliable opener and experienced wicketkeeper, de Kock offers immediate stability at the top.
• Jason Holder: While unlikely to trigger a bidding frenzy, his consistency with both bat and ball makes him a dependable option.

Fast bowling depth is another key theme. Matheesha Pathirana, released by CSK, could appeal to teams seeking express pace, while New Zealand’s Jacob Duffy enters the auction with strong T20I credentials. Among uncapped Indians, Ashok Sharma has emerged as a name to watch after impressive performances in domestic cricket.

Mini-Auction, Maximum Impact

Unlike mega auctions, mini-auctions are about precision rather than overhaul. Franchises arrive with specific needs and are often willing to stretch budgets for the right fit. Alongside headline-grabbing bids, value picks and surprise winners frequently emerge.

As the IPL 2026 auction unfolds, all eyes will remain on how KKR and CSK deploy their financial advantage — and whether Cameron Green becomes the face of another record-breaking day in IPL history.