Top 5 players to watch out for in IPL 2026 auction: Big names, big bidding wars expected

The Indian Premier League (IPL), one of the most successful T20 leagues in the world, is set to return for another season from March 2026. However, before that, the IPL 2026 auction is scheduled on December 16 in Abu Dhabi. The franchise owners will be excited to fill their squads ahead of the tournament.

There are many players who have performed well in the recent games across formats and tournaments which will help them get into the IPL teams. In this article, we’ll discuss the five players to watch out for in the upcoming IPL auction 2026.

Top 5 players to watch out for in IPL 2026 auction

Ravi Bishnoi (India)

Spinner Ravi Bishnoi has emerged as one of India’s most dependable leg-spinners in T20 cricket, combining pace through the air with sharp turn and accuracy. His ability to pick wickets in the middle overs while maintaining a tight economy makes him a valuable IPL asset. 

Bishnoi has already proven himself across multiple IPL seasons and at the international level, showing maturity beyond his years.

Venkatesh Iyer (India)

Venkatesh Iyer remains one of the most talented Indian all-rounders in the IPL. His left-handed batting at the top or middle order, combined with his ability to bowl medium pace, offers franchises tactical flexibility.

Iyer has delivered several match-winning performances in high-pressure IPL games and brings valuable experience despite still being in his prime years. Hence, he was also the highest paid cricketer in IPL 2025. This season too, we can expect similar response for Iyer in the auction.

David Miller (South Africa)

David Miller’s reputation as a proven IPL finisher makes him one of the most reliable overseas batters available. Known for his calm temperament and ability to finish games under pressure, Miller has delivered consistently across multiple IPL franchises.

His experience in crunch situations, coupled with his powerful stroke play against pace and spin, adds immense value to any middle order. He is one of the best players in the tournament and all eyes will be on him during the auction. Previously, he played for the Gujarat Titans and Lucknow Super Giants.

Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka)

Wanindu Hasaranga is among the most impactful T20 all-rounders in world cricket, offering wickets, control, and late-order hitting. His leg-spin has troubled top batters across leagues, and his ability to break partnerships makes him a match-changer. In the IPL, Hasaranga’s effectiveness in the middle overs and his knack for picking crucial wickets significantly boost his auction appeal. He played with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the IPL and was quite impressive.

Quinton de Kock (South Africa)

Quinton de Kock is a proven IPL player with years of experience as an explosive opener and reliable wicketkeeper. His ability to provide fast starts at the top of the order has been a major asset for franchises in the past.

De Kock’s consistency, combined with his sharp glovework behind the stumps, makes him a complete package in T20 cricket. He has played for multiple franchises and has performed well in almost all the seasons. Hence, the franchises will be eager to buy him for their team.

When and where to watch the IPL 2026 auction?

Cricket fans in India can watch the IPL 2026 mini auction on December 16 from 1 PM onwards online on JioHotstar, via OTTplay Premium.

Also read: When and where to watch IPL 2026 auction live: Date, time, and streaming details