IPL 2026 Auction Highlights: Unsold Players and Big Buys

IPL 2026 Auction Recap

The much-anticipated IPL 2026 auction held in Abu Dhabi on December 16 thrilled cricket fans worldwide. The event was marked by significant purchases and surprising omissions, setting the stage for a competitive season ahead.

Top Players and Record Buys

A standout moment was the acquisition of Australian all-rounder Cameron Green by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for an astonishing ₹25.20 crore, making him the most expensive overseas player in IPL history. His actual salary will be ₹18 crore.

Following closely was Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana, who was also picked by KKR for ₹18 crore. These purchases highlight KKR’s aggressive strategy in strengthening their squad.

Major Indian Talent Picks

Notably, the auction also saw uncapped Indian players making headlines. Both Kartik Sharma and Prashant Veer were sold to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for ₹14.2 crore each, marking a record for uncapped players in IPL auctions.

Unsold Players at IPL 2026

While some players celebrated new contracts, others faced disappointment. A notable list of prominent names went unsold, including:

This year’s mini-auction had a maximum of 77 slots available, including 31 for overseas players, which undoubtedly contributed to the tough competition for available contracts.

Looking Ahead

The IPL 2026 season promises to be electrifying, combining new talent with seasoned players. Fans eagerly wait to see how these strategies play out on the pitch.