Top 5 all-rounders who can change IPL 2026

IPL 2026 is expected to be a season of all-rounders, with the mini-auction witnessing how valuable multi-skilled players have become. Franchises went hard after cricketers who can contribute in more than one department, providing flexibility, balance, and match-winning impact in a long tournament. The bidding trends made it clear that teams are no longer building squads around just star batters or specialist bowlers, but around all-rounders who can adapt to different roles and situations.

Here are 5 All-Rounders who can change IPL 2026

Akeal Hosein

Akeal Hosein’s IPL career began after being picked up by Sunrisers Hyderabad for INR 1 crore in the 2023 season. The left-arm spinner featured in just one match, conceding 40 runs while picking up a wicket. He did not get another opportunity and has gone unsold in the past two auctions. Yet, Hosein remains one of the most exciting spin prospects heading into this year.

His recent white-ball form has been outstanding, claiming 17 wickets across matches against Nepal, Bangladesh, and New Zealand. This year, he will walk in for the five-time champions Chennai Super Kings and make sure his skillsets play a big role in the team’s success.

Prashant Veer

Uttar Pradesh all-rounder, Prashant Veer, made headlines at the IPL 2026 mini-auction and was acquired by Chennai Super Kings for a whopping INR 14.20 crore, making him one of the most expensive uncapped Indian players ever. The 20-year-old left-arm spin all-rounder from Shahjipur village in Uttar Pradesh started with a base price of just INR 30 lakh and witnessed a fierce bidding war involving multiple franchises before CSK sealed the deal. 

Often compared to Ravindra Jadeja for his all-round ability and called the David Miller of Saharanpur for his finishing abilities, Veer is expected to go all out for the five-time champions and make sure to prove his price tag.

Cooper Connolly

Australian all-rounder Cooper Connolly is set to make his IPL debut in 2026 after being picked up by Punjab Kings for INR 3 crore at the mini-auction. The 22-year-old’s skill set perfectly fits the Punjab setup. Connolly has already grabbed attention in the Big Bash League with Perth Scorchers, scoring fifties while batting at No. 3, but he remains open to adapting his role based on the team’s needs.

Punjab Kings see Connolly as a player who can thrive under pressure and potentially finish games. Having already represented Australia in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is, Connolly will bring international experience.

Venkatesh Iyer

Royal Challengers Bengaluru secured all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer for INR 7 crore. After spending his entire IPL career with Kolkata Knight Riders, the 30-year-old will walk into RCB colours for the first time. His abilities allow him to slot in anywhere from the top to the middle order, giving RCB much-needed flexibility. He is also a good player of spin and maintains a healthy strike rate of over 137 in the IPL.

Iyer’s medium pace gives a handy bowling option, making him a valuable pick. He was recently named the skipper of Madhya Pradesh for the Vijay Hazare Trophy and will look to perform well before entering the IPL 2026.

Cameron Green

Cameron Green’s name dominated the IPL 2026 auction, as he became the most expensive overseas player in the history of the league. The Australian was already tipped to command a big contract, but the bidding war between Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings took his value to INR 25.20 crore with KKR securing him.

Despite a career affected by injuries, Green’s IPL numbers have been solid. He scored 452 runs at a strike rate fover 160 for the Mumbai Indians in 2023, while contributing with the ball as well. His stint with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru was equally good. After missing IPL 2025 due to a back injury, the all-rounder has a big responsibility on his shoulders, and he would look to take it head-on.