Top 5 Bowlers to Watch in IPL 2026 Auction

Overview of the IPL 2026 Auction

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has announced that it will bring together 350 players, including an impressive roster of 110 overseas athletes. The auction is set for December 16, 2026, in Abu Dhabi. With a total of 77 roster spots available, teams are eager to fill their ranks, especially with 31 overseas slots up for grabs.

Key Players to Watch

Among the athletes poised to attract significant bids are several talented bowlers. Let’s delve into the top five overseas bowlers expected to shine in the auction.

1. Matheesha Pathirana

After his release by the Chennai Super Kings, Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana has registered for the IPL 2026 auction with a base price of INR 2 crore. Pathirana has made a name for himself in T20 leagues, boasting an impressive record of 47 wickets in 32 matches at an economy rate of 8.68.

2. Matt Henry

New Zealand’s Matt Henry is another bowler to keep an eye on. The 33-year-old also entered the auction with a base price of INR 2 crore. With 352 total international wickets, including 211 in T20s over 174 games, Henry has proven to be a formidable part of any squad.

3. Jacob Duffy

With remarkable recent form, Jacob Duffy is set to make an impact. Notably, Duffy bagged 10 wickets in a recent T20I series, showing that he is in peak condition. He has a base price of INR 2 crore, with overall T20 numbers standing at 178 wickets in 156 matches.

4. Mujeeb Ur Rahman

Afghanistan’s Mujeeb Ur Rahman is once again putting his name forward for bidding after going unsold in the previous auction. His base price remains at INR 2 crore. Mujeeb has a track record of 178 wickets in various formats, along with significant experience in international leagues.

5. Lungi Ngidi

The South African speedster Lungi Ngidi rounds out our list. With an extensive record of 244 wickets in international cricket, he is sure to attract interest. His bowling performance in 2025 with Royal Challengers Bengaluru and previous seasons with Chennai Super Kings highlight his potential value in the auction.

Player Statistics Comparison

Conclusion

The IPL 2026 auction is shaping up to be an exciting event for teams and fans alike. With these talented bowlers gearing up to enter the bidding war, numerous franchises are expected to strategize cleverly to secure them. Stay tuned for real-time updates on the auction proceedings, live scores, and more!