2026 IPL Auction: Green Awaits Payday as Maxwell, Moeen Withdraw

The 2026 IPL Auction is set to generate excitement among fans and franchises alike, with a significant focus on star allrounder Cameron Green. His absence from the previous mega-auction, due to injury, has made him one of the most sought-after players this season.

Key Events Leading Up to the Auction

A total of 1,355 players are included in the IPL’s longlist, shared with franchises after the registration deadline on November 30. The auction will take place on December 16 in Abu Dhabi, giving teams the opportunity to enhance their rosters.

Franchise Strategies

The franchises have until December 5 to submit their wishlists, with 77 slots available for filling, including 31 for overseas players. Notably, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) hold the largest financial resources going into the auction.

• Kolkata Knight Riders: ₹64.3 crore available, 12 slots to fill including six overseas.
• Chennai Super Kings: ₹43.4 crore available, nine slots to fill including four overseas.

Star Players and Notable Absentees

Glenn Maxwell, acquired by Punjab Kings last year for ₹4.2 crore, and fellow allrounder Moeen Ali, have both opted out this season. Maxwell missed the previous season due to a fractured finger and Ali chose to participate in the Pakistan Super League instead of IPL.

Other notable mentions include KKR’s Andre Russell, who has retired from the IPL but will take on a coaching role. His retirement has likely paved the way for KKR to target Cameron Green, who possesses a versatile skill set and can contribute across various roles in the team.

Auction Insights

This year’s auction is crucial for teams aiming to strengthen their squads. The interest in Cameron Green is expected to dominate discussions, with his previous absence heightening demand. The following players have also attracted attention due to their previous performances and available slots:

• Pathirana (CSK, ₹13 crore retention)
• Venkatesh Iyer (previously bought for ₹23.5 crore)
• Josh Inglis (returning to auction pool)

This season’s auction will not only provide teams with a chance to rebuild but will also showcase the depth of talent available in the international cricketing circuit. As franchises finalize their strategies, the spotlight remains firmly on how they will capitalize on the available players, especially Cameron Green, during the highly anticipated auction at Abu Dhabi.