The IPL 2026 auction is set for December 16 at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, starting at 2:30 PM IST. This year, the BCCI has shortlisted 350 players, down from the initial 1,355 registrations.
The pool includes 240 Indian and 110 overseas players, combining experienced stars with promising newcomers. Among them are 224 uncapped Indian players and 14 uncapped overseas cricketers, giving franchises the chance to discover the next big talent.
Big names in the auction include Australia’s Cameron Green and India’s Venkatesh Iyer, both with a base price of ₹2 crore. South African wicket-keeper Quinton de Kock, who recently returned from international retirement, has also joined the list with a base price of ₹1 crore.
The auction will start with “capped” players, sorted by role: batters, all-rounders, wicket-keeper/batters, fast bowlers, and spinners. Then, uncapped players will follow the same order.
With 10 franchises competing for 77 squad spots, including 31 reserved for overseas players, the bidding is expected to be intense. Franchises will aim to balance star power with emerging talent to build strong teams for the season.
For players, it’s a chance to shine on one of cricket’s biggest stages. For fans, it promises excitement, surprises, and the thrill of seeing which stars land with which teams.
By trimming the player list, the BCCI ensures a competitive, well-organized auction, making it easier for teams to plan and fans to follow the drama that sets the tone for the IPL season.
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