Lagatar24 Desk
Abu Dhabi: The IPL 2026 mini auction began on Tuesday at the Abu Dhabi Arena, witnessing record-breaking bids as franchises aggressively strengthened their squads ahead of the new season.
Cameron Green Becomes Costliest Overseas Buy
Australian all-rounder Cameron Green created history by becoming the most expensive overseas player in IPL auction history. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) secured him for Rs 25.20 crore, surpassing the previous record held by Mitchell Starc, who was bought for Rs 24.75 crore in 2024, also by KKR. However, due to the BCCI’s cap on overseas players’ auction earnings, Green will receive Rs 18 crore, while the remaining Rs 7.2 crore will be deposited into the BCCI welfare fund.
KKR Strengthen Pace Attack With Pathirana
In the fast bowlers’ segment, KKR further bolstered their lineup by signing Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana for Rs 18 crore. Meanwhile, New Zealand fast bowler Jacob Duffy was picked up by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for Rs 2 crore, while South African speedster Anrich Nortje joined Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for the same amount.
Indian Players See Mixed Fortunes
Among Indian players, spinner Ravi Bishnoi was bought by Rajasthan Royals for Rs 7.20 crore. Venkatesh Iyer, who fetched Rs 23.75 crore in the 2024 mega auction with KKR, was snapped up by RCB this time for just Rs 7 crore. Bidding continued in later rounds for uncapped Indian batters as franchises looked for emerging talent.
