IPL 2026 Auction: Top 5 All-Rounders Who May Spark a Massive Bidding War

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.

IPL 2026 Mini-Auction: All-Rounders Expected to Command Huge Bids

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.

1. Cameron Green – The Potential “Million-Dollar Man”

A Global Superstar Ready to Dominate the Auction Table

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.

Expected Price Range

Experts predict he could fetch “somewhere between INR 25–28 crore”, making him one of the most expensive players of the season.

Why Teams Will Fight for Him

• 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.

2. Venkatesh Iyer – A Proven IPL Performer Back in the Auction Pool

A Versatile Indian All-Rounder with Huge Upside

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.

Impact Numbers

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.

Why Teams Will Target Iyer

• 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.

3. Wanindu Hasaranga – Sri Lanka’s Game-Changing All-Rounder

A T20 Specialist with Match-Winning Skills

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.

Recent Form Boosts His Value

His strong T20I performances for Sri Lanka in recent months have significantly raised his profile.

Why Teams Will Bid High

• 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.

4. Liam Livingstone – A Big-Hitting All-Rounder Back in the Market

A High-Impact Player with Title-Winning Contribution

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.

Why He Will Draw Interest

• 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.

5. Rachin Ravindra – A Young All-Rounder with Immense Potential

A Rising Star with Strong Indian Conditions Record

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.

Why Teams Will Bid Heavily

• 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.

A High-Stakes Auction Awaits in Abu Dhabi

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.