IPL 2026: Shreyas Iyer to lead Punjab Kings delegation at mini-auction in Abu Dhabi

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini-auction on December 16 may be a smaller event compared to the mega-auctions, but it could feature unexpected star power with the presence of Shreyas Iyer. Currently sidelined due to a spleen injury, Iyer is expected to lead the Punjab Kings (PBKS) delegation in Abu Dhabi, giving fans hope for some action from the skipper despite his recovery phase.

All franchises are required to inform the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) about the names of their representatives for the auction by Wednesday, December 10. According to Cricbuzz, PBKS have included Iyer’s name in their official list. As per BCCI and auction guidelines, a maximum of eight team members can be present inside the auction hall, with an additional six permitted outside, allowing teams to plan their representation strategically.

Sources indicate that Iyer is expected to be in Abu Dhabi, barring any last-minute changes. The skipper had shown stellar leadership and performance last season, guiding Punjab Kings to the final after a long gap. He has been out of action since the ODI series in Australia last month, making his presence at the auction an important morale booster for the team.

However, Ricky Ponting, the franchise head coach, is unlikely to make the trip. Ponting is currently contracted with the Seven Network in Australia for Ashes commentary, with the third Test scheduled to begin on December 17 in Adelaide. While commentary duties are a key reason, the limited scope of PBKS’s transactions may also factor into his absence. The franchise has INR 11.5 crore remaining in its auction purse and can acquire at most four players, including two overseas signings, reducing the need for his presence.

Meanwhile, Daniel Vettori, the Australia assistant coach, will attend the auction despite his Ashes commitments. He has reportedly obtained permission from Cricket Australia (CA) to travel to Abu Dhabi mid-series, similar to an arrangement made last year during the Jeddah auction in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Among other Australian names, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) will be represented by Justin Langer and Tom Moody, the head coach and global director of cricket, respectively, adding more star appeal to the event.