IPL Auction: Green Expected Top Buy, Capped at INR 18 Crore

The upcoming IPL auction scheduled for December 16 is generating significant buzz, particularly around Cameron Green. Analysts predict he will be the highest-priced player due to strong interest from franchises like Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK). KKR has a purse of INR 64.3 crore, while CSK holds INR 43.4 crore, both ready to vie for the allrounder.

Cameron Green’s Auction Potential

In the 2023 auction, KKR made headlines when they acquired Mitchell Starc for INR 24.75 crore. Shortly after, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) signed Pat Cummins for INR 20.5 crore. This event marked a significant milestone, highlighting the soaring market for top players. Previously, Punjab Kings (PBKS) bid INR 18.5 crore for Sam Curran in the same auction.

Cameron Green entered the spotlight when Mumbai Indians (MI) bought him for INR 17.5 crore. A year later, they traded him to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for the same amount. To date, Green has participated in 29 IPL matches across the 2023 and 2024 seasons, accumulating 707 runs at an impressive strike rate of 153.70.

New Maximum Fee Rule

For the upcoming auction, Green has listed himself with a maximum base price of INR 2 crore. However, he will not surpass the INR 18 crore limit established by the IPL’s new maximum fee rule. This regulation was implemented to address concerns regarding overseas players. The rule caps auction fees for overseas players at INR 18 crore, irrespective of any higher bids received during the auction.

• The IPL mandated that if the bidding exceeds INR 18 crore, the surplus funds will be allocated to player welfare.
• Indian players remain exempt from this rule, as they will receive the full bid amount.

In an announcement last year, the IPL clarified that the auction price for overseas players at mini auctions would not exceed the highest retention price of INR 18 crore established before the 2025 mega auction. This ensures a balanced approach in a competitive market.

Franchise Auction Dynamics

As the auction approaches, a total of 77 slots will be available, including 31 designated for overseas players. Sixteen capped Indian players are also part of the longlist, which will be refined as franchises finalize their wishlists by December 5. This process will shape the competitive landscape heading into the eagerly anticipated auction.