High-Stakes Bidding War Awaits as Top Stars Register for IPL 2026

The stage is set for a dramatic showdown in Abu Dhabi. The long list of player registrations for the IPL 2026 Auction has been finalized, revealing that 45 cricketers have valued themselves at the maximum base price of Rs 2 crore. Leading this elite group are marquee names such as Australian all-rounder Cameron Green, England’s power-hitter Liam Livingstone, and Indian spin wizard Ravi Bishnoi.

The Numbers Game

The sheer volume of interest in the league remains staggering. A total of 1,355 players submitted their names before the November 30 deadline. However, the competition will be fierce, as the ten franchises have only 77 roster spots left to fill combined. Out of these, only 31 slots are available for overseas talent. Franchises have until December 5 to submit their requested players, after which the league will release a trimmed shortlist ahead of the auction on December 16.

All Eyes on Cameron Green

After missing the previous mega-auction due to a back injury, Cameron Green is expected to be the hottest property this December. With the legendary Andre Russell retiring from the IPL, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are on the hunt for a seam-bowling all-rounder who can bat anywhere in the order. KKR enters the auction with a massive purse of Rs 64.3 crore and 12 vacancies. Chennai Super Kings (CSK), armed with Rs 43.4 crore, are also expected to bid aggressively for the Australian star.

Key Indian and International Movers

Several prominent players who were released by their franchises have entered the top price bracket to test their market value:

• Matheesha Pathirana: The Sri Lankan pacer, known as ‘Baby Malinga,’ was released by CSK following injury concerns but remains a high-value target for his death-bowling skills.
• Venkatesh Iyer: Released by KKR, the Indian all-rounder has set his base price at Rs 2 crore.
• Ravi Bishnoi: The leg-spinner is back in the pool after a four-year stint with Lucknow Super Giants.

Notable Absentees and Surprises

Perhaps the biggest shock is the absence of Glenn Maxwell. The 37-year-old Australian, who played for Punjab Kings last season, has not registered for the auction. His 2025 campaign was cut short by a fractured finger, and it appears he is stepping away from the league for now.

Meanwhile, Josh Inglis has registered but comes with a caveat; the wicketkeeper-batter will only be available for a quarter of the season due to personal commitments, which may impact his bidding prospects.

With heavyweights like Steve Smith, Kane Williamson (implied by context of top players), and Trent Boult joining the Rs 2 crore club, fans can expect a thrilling day of bidding wars in Abu Dhabi.

With Agency Inputs