IPL 2026 Auction: Team-Wise Strategy Ahead of December Mini-Auction

Digital Desk

IPL 2026 Auction: Team-Wise Strategy Ahead of December Mini-Auction

With the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 retention and release lists announced on November 15, franchises are now preparing for the upcoming mini-auction scheduled for December 15 in Abu Dhabi. Teams are strategising based on their retained core and remaining purse to strengthen weak spots ahead of the 19th edition of the tournament.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK), holding over ₹43 crore, aim to bolster their spin attack around Noor Ahmad while adding power hitters like Glenn Maxwell or David Miller. CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan highlighted the need for opening batsmen, now partially addressed with Sanju Samson.

Mumbai Indians (MI), with just ₹2.75 crore, are expected to remain cautious. Mentor Mahela Jayawardene emphasized the team’s reliance on their core squad, including Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, and Hardik Pandya, while acknowledging a potential gap in quality spin options.

Rajasthan Royals (RR) must strengthen their bowling, with options like Karn Sharma and Rahul Chahar likely targets, though managing nine vacant slots on a ₹16 crore purse will be challenging.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), defending champions, appear largely content with their squad and may only consider upgrades, such as backup overseas talent Aaron Hardie.

Delhi Capitals (DC), holding ₹21.8 crore, are in search of explosive openers after releasing Fraser-McGurk and du Plessis, while also exploring overseas options.

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), with ₹22.95 crore, require a quality pacer to assist Digvesh Rathi, alongside seam bowling backup.

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) will focus on shoring up their spin department and all-round options, given the release of Adam Zampa and Rahul Chahar.

Punjab Kings (PBKS), with limited funds, seek an overseas batter to add unpredictability.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) lead the spending capacity with ₹64.3 crore, eyeing a replacement for Andre Russell, a new wicketkeeper, and an opener after releasing Quinton de Kock and Rahmanullah Gurbaz.

Gujarat Titans (GT), with ₹12.9 crore, aim to secure a finisher following the trade of Sherfane Rutherford.

As teams approach the mini-auction, strategic utilisation of purse funds and careful selection of players will be critical to shaping competitive squads for IPL 2026.

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