Cameron Green Tops IPL 2026 Mini-Auction as KKR Splurge Big in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, Dec 2025 : Australian all-rounder Cameron Green emerged as the biggest attraction at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini-auction, held at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, after three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) secured his services for a staggering Rs 25.20 crore. The high-profile signing made Green the most expensive player in the history of IPL mini-auctions, surpassing the previous record held by his Australia teammate Mitchell Starc, who was bought by KKR for Rs 24.75 crore at the IPL 2024 auction.

Interestingly, Green was registered as a specialist batter due to an error during his auction registration, a detail that did little to dampen franchise interest in the dynamic all-rounder. His explosive batting, seam-bowling ability, and proven adaptability across conditions made him the standout name of the auction.

Green made his IPL debut in 2023 after Mumbai Indians bought him for Rs 17.5 crore, making him the second-most expensive overseas player at the time and the costliest Australian in IPL auction history. Ahead of IPL 2024, he was traded to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), where he featured in 13 matches, scoring 255 runs in 12 innings at a strike rate of 143.25, while also picking up 10 wickets with an economy rate of 8.61. His all-round performances reinforced his reputation as a long-term match-winner, prompting KKR to make a bold financial statement.

Reigning champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru also made a notable acquisition by signing India all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer for Rs 7 crore. The left-hander’s ability to contribute in both departments, particularly in pressure situations, made him one of the most sought-after Indian players in the capped all-rounders category.

In other capped batter signings, South Africa’s experienced finisher David Miller was picked up by Delhi Capitals at his base price of Rs 2 crore. However, several prominent names surprisingly went unsold, including India batters Prithvi Shaw and Sarfaraz Khan, New Zealand opener Devon Conway, formerly with Chennai Super Kings, and Australia’s aggressive batter Jake Fraser-McGurk, who was released by Delhi Capitals.

Among capped all-rounders, Lucknow Super Giants strengthened their squad by acquiring Sri Lanka star Wanindu Hasaranga for Rs 2 crore. Hasaranga’s wicket-taking ability in the middle overs and his lower-order hitting add balance to the LSG lineup. Meanwhile, England’s Gus Atkinson, India’s Deepak Hooda, New Zealand’s Rachin Ravindra, and South Africa’s Wiaan Mulder failed to find buyers.

The auction pool for IPL 2026 was extensive, with 1,390 players registering initially. Of these, 350 players were shortlisted, including 240 Indians and 110 overseas players. The list featured 224 uncapped Indian players and 14 uncapped overseas cricketers, underlining the IPL’s continued emphasis on identifying emerging talent alongside established stars.

England wicketkeeper-batter Ben Duckett was another notable overseas signing, with Delhi Capitals snapping him up at his base price of Rs 2 crore. Duckett brings vast T20 experience, having scored 5,397 runs in 216 matches, including 34 half-centuries. For England, he has accumulated 527 runs in 20 T20Is at an average of 29.27 and a strike rate of 153.64. Duckett has also played in major leagues such as the Pakistan Super League, Big Bash League, and The Hundred, making him a valuable addition to DC’s batting unit.

Mumbai Indians strengthened their wicketkeeping options by signing South Africa’s Quinton de Kock for Rs 1 crore. Released by KKR ahead of the auction, de Kock brings proven pedigree, having represented multiple franchises across his IPL career. In 115 IPL matches, he has scored 3,309 runs at an average of 30.63 and a strike rate of 134.02. His recent form has been impressive, highlighted by a blistering 90 off 46 balls against India in the ongoing T20I series.

KKR further bolstered their squad by acquiring New Zealand wicketkeeper-batter Finn Allen for Rs 2 crore. Currently playing in the Big Bash League for the Perth Scorchers, Allen offers explosive top-order batting and wicketkeeping cover. This marks his second IPL stint after an earlier association with RCB. His versatility gives KKR flexibility at the top of the order, including the option to open alongside Ajinkya Rahane.

Despite the flurry of signings, several well-known wicketkeeper-batters went unsold, including England’s Jamie Smith and Jonny Bairstow, Afghanistan’s Rahmanullah Gurbaz, and India’s KS Bharat.

With franchises reshaping their squads and making strategic investments, the IPL 2026 mini-auction set the tone for an intensely competitive season ahead, marked by big bets, surprise omissions, and renewed focus on all-round depth.

Team Maverick.