The IPL 2026 mini-auction, scheduled for December 16 in Abu Dhabi, is set to deliver major excitement as franchises gear up to target high-impact all-rounders. With teams aiming to boost balance, depth, and match-winning versatility, several star all-rounders are expected to become the centre of intense bidding battles.
The IPL 2026 mini-auction, to be held on December 16 in Abu Dhabi, promises high drama as teams look to secure multi-skilled players who can contribute with both bat and ball. With all-rounders remaining the most valuable assets in T20 cricket, several names are poised to ignite fierce bidding competition. Below are the top five all-rounders expected to be the highlight of this year’s auction.
Australian all-rounder Cameron Green is set to be one of the biggest attractions at the IPL 2026 mini-auction. Known for his explosive stroke play, tall pace bowling, and match-winning temperament, Green has consistently delivered for Australia in white-ball cricket.
Experts predict he could fetch “somewhere between INR 25–28 crore”, making him one of the most expensive players of the season.
Elite power-hitting
Ability to bowl with pace
Proven match-winner in T20s
Offers long-term value
Green is almost certain to spark a multi-team bidding war.
Released by KKR ahead of the 2026 auction, Venkatesh Iyer returns to the bidding table with a strong resume. Previously acquired for INR 23.75 crore, Iyer remains a player who offers rare versatility: opening capability, middle-order stability, and right-arm medium pace.
Iyer has scored 1,468 runs in 62 matches at an impressive strike rate and has taken three wickets. His growing leadership qualities further enhance his value.
Left-handed batting option
Multi-role utility (open, middle-order, finisher)
Captaincy potential
Indian all-rounders are premium assets
Expect at least 3–4 teams to aggressively chase him.
Sri Lankan star Wanindu Hasaranga continues to be one of the most impactful T20 bowlers globally. He claimed 11 wickets in 11 matches for Rajasthan Royals last season, although his batting opportunities were limited to just five outings.
His strong T20I performances for Sri Lanka in recent months have significantly raised his profile.
World-class leg-breaks and googlies
Lower-order big-hitter capability
Ability to control middle overs
Proven IPL experience
Hasaranga is almost guaranteed to attract multiple bidders.
English power-hitter Liam Livingstone, a key part of RCB’s title win last season, is back in the auction after being released. Despite inconsistent form, he delivered a crucial 25 off 15 balls in the IPL 2025 final.
Unmatched power-hitting ability
Useful leg-spin/off-spin option
Finisher with high strike rate
Proven under high-pressure matches
Franchises seeking middle-order muscle and flexibility will target him early.
New Zealand’s Indian-origin all-rounder Rachin Ravindra made a stunning debut IPL season in 2024 with CSK, scoring 222 runs at a strike rate above 160. Though he dipped slightly in 2025 (191 runs at a strike rate of 128), his talent is unquestioned.
Left-handed attacking opener
Handy left-arm spin
Young, long-term investment
Comfortable playing in Indian pitches
Having re-entered the auction pool, Ravindra could attract offers from multiple teams.
With all-rounders being the most sought-after assets in modern T20 cricket, the IPL 2026 mini-auction will likely see aggressive bidding battles for these five players. Their ability to deliver breakthroughs with the ball, change gears with the bat, and add tremendous depth makes them indispensable.
Franchises will look to secure these match-winners as they prepare for an action-packed IPL 2026 season.