IPL 2026 auction: 3 players who could break the record for most expensive buy

The 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) mini auction promises to be an exciting affair, with some teams looking to plug key gaps while others aim for an overhaul. Teams like the Royal Challengers Bengaluru, the Punjab Kings, and the Mumbai Indians look quite settled. However, the likes of Rajasthan Royals, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Chennai Super Kings may release many of their players after their disappointing performances in IPL 2025. These teams, which have had success in the past, will try to add some players to their ranks during the mini auction and look to forge a strong comeback.

There will be several big names who will be entering the auction. In the past, the teams have shelled out huge amounts of money in mini-auctions in the IPL. Rishabh Pant became the most expensive buy in IPL history last year when he joined Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for a whopping INR 27 crore. This record, however, could be in jeopardy in the upcoming mini auction.

3 players who could become the most expensive buys in IPL 2026

3. Cameron Green

Cameron Green played for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in IPL 2024. However, he was not retained by the franchise ahead of the mega auction, as he was out of action due to a back injury. After undergoing back surgery in late 2024, the Australian all-rounder made his comeback in early 2025. 

Green has been in exemplary form in international cricket. In eight T20Is this year, he has amassed 258 runs at an average of 43 and a strike rate of 168.62. He has been playing purely as a batter, but he is working hard to get his body back in condition for the rigours of fast bowling. If he can start bowling ahead of the mini auction, IPL franchises could break the bank to acquire his services.

2. KL Rahul

Some reports have suggested that KL Rahul could be traded to a different team after spending last season at the Delhi Capitals (DC). The 33-year-old has been criticised for his strike rates for several years now. However, in last year’s IPL, there was a significant change in his approach, as he was looking to take the attack to the bowlers from the first ball.

Rahul can also add a lot of value to teams with his ability to keep wickets. He is also a decent captain with years of experience under his belt. The right-handed batter also showed a lot of flexibility last year, batting at different positions in the order. If DC decide to release him ahead of the auction, he could be the one sending Pant’s record for a toss.

1. Sanju Samson

Sanju Samson has emerged as a Rajasthan Royals legend. He has represented the franchise for 11 seasons, making him its longest-serving player. The Kerala star has also led them since 2021. However, recent reports have stated that Samson has had some “differences” with the management, and he is willing to be traded or released into the auction.

In case Samson is available at the auction table, he could spark a bidding war. The 30-year-old is predominantly an opener, but he recently showed his versatility during the 2025 Asia Cup, scoring important runs for India in the middle-order. Teams looking for a wicketkeeper as well as a captain could break the bank to sign someone of the calibre of Samson.