IPL 2026: Bengal captain Abhimanyu Easwaran added to Auction player list

Abhimanyu Easwaran. (Photo source: X)

Bengal captain Abhimanyu Easwaran’s name is the latest entrant to the list of IPL 2026 mini-auction’s registered players, scheduled in Abu Dhabi on December 16. Easwaran has reportedly been included in the updated auction register after franchises received a revised player list from the BCCI. Easwaran’s inclusion comes on the back of strong recent performances, including the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had earlier released a provisional auction list featuring 350 players shortlisted from over 1,300 registrations. However, a small number of late revisions were made. According to reports, the BCCI circulated an updated spreadsheet to franchises shortly before final auction preparations, with Easwaran being one of the new names added. The IPL 2026 mini-auction will take place at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, with all ten franchises looking to fill remaining squad slots ahead of the new season.

The opener’s return to the auction list followed a late push from an unnamed IPL franchise. Initially recommended by the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) with a base price of INR 30 lakh, his name was missing from the final list released earlier. The subsequent intervention by a franchise led to his re-entry into the auction pool, making him one of the latest additions ahead of the bidding day.

Abhimanyu Easwaran to enter auction pool on back of strong SMAT performances

While Easwaran is known as a red-ball specialist, his recent white-ball performances have strengthened his name for IPL. During the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025, the right-handed batter scored 266 runs in seven innings at an average of 44.33 and a strike rate of 152. His best knock was an unbeaten 130 off just 66 balls against Punjab. He followed it up with a 58 against Services.

Overall, he has amassed over 1,200 T20 runs, including two centuries and six half-centuries. Teams such as the Kolkata Knight Riders and the Delhi Capitals are reportedly monitoring domestic performers closely, and Easwaran’s late inclusion could make him another viable option on their radar.

Despite being a regular in the India A setup and touring England with the senior Test squad earlier this year, Easwaran is yet to make his international debut. He has also previously entered IPL auctions, including the 2025 mega auction, without attracting a bid.

Disclaimer: This latest news is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.