The 2026 IPL mini auction is poised to be one of the most exciting and financially intense events in recent league history. Experts and cricket personalities widely predict that the biggest bids will be for overseas all-rounders, particularly from Australia, rather than Indian players, given the limited availability of top Indian talent in the auction pool and the significant strategic value foreign all-rounders bring. The bidding frenzy is expected to revolve around a few marquee names who have demonstrated exceptional skill and potential, signaling likely record-breaking spends.
Most Expensive Players Expected in IPL 2026 Mini Auction
| Player Name | Nationality | Role | Predicted Price (₹ crore) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cameron Green | Australia | All-rounder (bat & ball) | 10-12 |
| Mitchell Owen | Australia | All-rounder | 06-08 |
| Sanju Samson | India | Batsman, Captain | 07-10 |
| Liam Livingstone | England | Batsman | 04-06 |
| Mayank Yadav | India | Fast Bowler | 02-04 |
| Donovan Ferreira | South Africa | All-rounder | 05-06 |
| Mark Wood | England | Fast Bowler | 05-10 |
| Gerald Coetzee | South Africa | Fast Bowler | 03-04 |
Cameron Green (Australia)
One of the top contenders for the most expensive player tag, Cameron Green has been highly favored for the 2026 mini auction. Known for his explosive batting, handy medium pace bowling, and athletic fielding, Green offers teams the ultimate package of all-round skills. After missing part of the previous auction due to injury, his full availability in 2026 is creating huge anticipation. Former CSK star Ravichandran Ashwin has publicly predicted Green could command bids in the ₹10-12 crore range, making him potentially the most expensive buy.
Mitchell Owen (Australia)
Another Australian all-rounder projected for high bidding, Mitchell Owen gained attention playing as a replacement for Glenn Maxwell with Punjab Kings. Though his IPL experience is limited, his ability to contribute with both bat and ball is earning him a reputation as a premium auction target. Experts expect Owen to fetch prices similar to Green, possibly in the ₹06-08 crore bracket, underpinning the deep demand for foreign all-rounders.
Sanju Samson (India)
Though Ashwin suggested overseas players might overshadow Indian players in the mini auction, Sanju Samson remains a notable name likely to attract significant bids should he enter the auction. Samson, captain of Rajasthan Royals, has reportedly requested a trade or release to test the auction waters. Known for explosive batting and leadership, his auction presence could ignite bidding wars among franchises seeking a proven match-winner.
Liam Livingstone (England)
RCB’s former star, Liam Livingstone, released before the auction, is another potential high-value player. His power-hitting and versatile batting lineup suitability make him a target for other teams. His previous price tag was ₹8.75 crore, and renewed interest could see him cross the ₹10 crore mark as teams fill batting gaps.
Mayank Yadav (India)
Retained by LSG at ₹11 crore but hampered by injuries, Mayank Yadav could go back to auction with high-profile interest. As a promising fast bowler with IPL experience, he fits the profile of teams seeking Indian pace options in the 2026 mini auction.
More Players
- Donovan Ferreira (South Africa)
- Mark Wood (England)
- Gerald Coetzee (South Africa)
The IPL 2026 mini auction is shaping up to be a high-stakes event with aggressive bids expected, especially for overseas all-rounders like Cameron Green and Mitchell Owen. These players combine the rare ability to deliver with both bat and ball, making them priceless in the IPL’s dynamic format. Indian stars like Sanju Samson and Mayank Yadav could also generate notable interest, but the auction narrative is largely expected to be driven by premium foreign talent. Price inflation trends and strategic team requirements indicate that bids for the top talents will soar, potentially rewriting IPL auction spending records once again.
