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  • IPL 2026: Record Auction Price, but Uncertainty Looms Over This Knight!

    IPL 2026: Record Auction Price, but Uncertainty Looms Over This Knight!

    Kolkata Knight Riders created history at the IPL 2026 auction. Shah Rukh Khan’s franchise spent a massive ₹9.20 crore to sign Bangladesh’s star left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman. However, despite the huge investment, questions have already arisen: will KKR get Mustafizur for the entire season?

    The concern stems from Bangladesh’s international commitments during the IPL window. In April, Bangladesh are scheduled to play a limited-overs series against New Zealand, featuring both ODIs and T20Is. While Mustafizur is no longer a regular in the ODI setup, he remains a key figure in Bangladesh’s T20 squad. If he is selected, KKR may have to release him for a few matches midway through the IPL.

    The IPL 2026 season will run from March 26 to May 31. The Bangladesh–New Zealand T20 series is likely to take place between April 16 and April 23. If Mustafizur is called up during this period, securing a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Bangladesh Cricket Board could become complicated, potentially disrupting KKR’s plans.

    Notably, this is the highest-ever auction price paid for a Bangladeshi cricketer in IPL history. Mustafizur is also set to be the only Bangladeshi player in IPL 2026, as Taskin Ahmed, Rishad Hossain, and Tanzim Hasan Shakib went unsold at the auction.

    This will be the first time Mustafizur wears the KKR jersey. To secure his services, KKR had to outbid Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings—both teams he has represented in the past. His proven IPL track record is what makes him such a valuable asset for the Knight Riders.

    Mustafizur made a sensational IPL debut in 2016, winning the Emerging Player of the Year award in his very first season. So far, he has taken 65 wickets in 60 IPL matches. Across all T20 cricket, he has played 308 matches and claimed 387 wickets.

    In the end, the big question remains: if national duty pulls him away midway, will KKR’s ₹9.20 crore gamble be put at risk? Or will Mustafizur silence all speculation and set the IPL on fire in Kolkata colors throughout the season? Only time will tell.

  • IPL 2026: Former Knight Rider Sees 70% Pay Cut, Joins RCB

    IPL 2026: Former Knight Rider Sees 70% Pay Cut, Joins RCB

    The IPL 2026 mini-auction once again proved that in cricket, “prices are never permanent.” Venkatesh Iyer, who was a ₹23.75 crore player for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) last season, has now joined Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for just ₹7 crore. In other words, the Indian pinch-hitter accepted a nearly 70% pay cut to take a fresh opportunity in a new team.

    নিলামের ৭০ শতাংশ বেতন কমল নাইটদের এই প্রাক্তন ক্রিকেটারের
     

    Last season, Iyer struggled to live up to expectations. Playing 11 matches for KKR, he scored just 142 runs, with minimal impact in both batting and bowling. The hefty price tag appeared to weigh him down, resulting in a disappointing 2025 campaign.

    However, in 2024, Iyer had been a key player in KKR’s title-winning season, scoring 370 runs in 15 matches at a strike rate of 159. That performance laid the foundation for him to press the “reset” button for the new season.

    During the auction, KKR did not completely let go of Iyer. A bidding battle with RCB went up to ₹6.8 crore. But after spending ₹25.2 crore on Cameron Green, Kolkata were unwilling to push further. Finally, RCB snapped him up for ₹7 crore. With a new team, a defined role, and less financial pressure, this move could work in Iyer’s favour.

    The IPL 2026 auction also delivered a shock for South African veteran David Miller, whose value dropped from ₹7.5 crore last season to just ₹2 crore with Delhi Capitals.

    There were also some bargain deals at base price: England’s Ben Duckett was signed for ₹2 crore, Wanindu Hasaranga also for ₹2 crore, while Mumbai Indians brought back Quinton de Kock for just ₹1 crore.

    Interestingly, several big names including Liam Livingstone, Rachin Ravindra, Jamie Smith, Prithvi Shaw, and Sarfaraz Khan went unsold in the first round, but teams later included them strategically according to squad requirements.

    Overall, the IPL 2026 auction reaffirmed that form and team roles outweigh price tags. Venkatesh Iyer’s journey to RCB is not just a transfer—it’s an opportunity to prove himself all over again.

  • IPL 2026: Opposing Bowlers Will Be Shaking in Fear! KKR Snaps Up This Kiwi Star

    IPL 2026: Opposing Bowlers Will Be Shaking in Fear! KKR Snaps Up This Kiwi Star

    In the IPL 2026 mini-auction, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) made a surprising move despite a limited budget. From the list of capped wicketkeepers, the team picked New Zealand’s destructive batter Finn Allen for a base price of just ₹2 crore. With no major bidding wars, the Knight Riders secured him easily. The big question now—will Finn Allen get the opportunity to play this time?

    বিপক্ষের বোলাররা ভয়ে কাঁপবেন! নিলামে এই কিউই তারকাকে নিল KKR

    Although Finn Allen is a familiar name on the international stage, he hasn’t yet made a significant impact in the IPL. In the 2021 season, he joined Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) as a replacement for Josh Philippe, earning ₹20 lakh. In the following auction, RCB picked him again for ₹80 lakh, but he didn’t play a single match, spending the season as a reserve keeper.

    Outside the IPL, Finn Allen has made a mark in global franchise leagues. At just 26, he is considered one of the most destructive T20 openers in the world.

    This signing is crucial for KKR. In recent seasons, the team has struggled to find consistent success with foreign wicketkeeper-batters. Even with Rahmanullah Gurbaz in the squad, runs haven’t flowed consistently. Early runs at the top of the order have been a challenge in T20 cricket, and Finn Allen is expected to fill that gap for the Knight Riders.

    Finn Allen’s greatest strength is his attacking mindset from the very first ball. He is equally comfortable against both spin and pace, as reflected in his T20 strike rate. Across international and franchise cricket, he consistently bats at over a 170 strike rate.

    His exploits in Major League Cricket have drawn global attention. He has played in the 2023, 2024, and 2025 seasons, scoring 333, 306, and 75 runs respectively. In his first season, his strike rate exceeded 225, showcasing his aggressive approach.

    For New Zealand, Finn Allen has played 52 T20 internationals, scoring 1,285 runs with a highest of 137 and an average of 25.19. Across all franchise T20 leagues outside international cricket, he has played 162 matches, accumulating 4,431 runs with a highest score of 151.

    If he can maintain this form in the KKR jersey, it will provide a significant boost to the team’s batting lineup. Kolkata fans are eagerly waiting to witness Finn Allen unleash a storm of sixes at Eden Gardens.

  • IPL 2026: Shah Rukh Khan’s Team Targets These 5 Players in the Auction!

    IPL 2026: Shah Rukh Khan’s Team Targets These 5 Players in the Auction!

    Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are set to spend big in the IPL 2026 auction. The team has already released some major names, including Quinton de Kock and Venkatesh Iyer. Additionally, Andre Russell has retired. Now, the Knight Riders are eyeing five potential players who could strengthen the squad.

    নিলামে এই পাঁচ তারকাকে টার্গেট শাহরুখের দলের!

    1. Cameron Green

    The Australian all-rounder is KKR’s top choice. With Russell retired and Iyer released, the team needs a pace-bowling all-rounder like Green. In IPL matches, he has already showcased his talent with 707 runs and 16 wickets in 29 games. The auction for him is expected to be competitive, and he could even become one of the most expensive players in history.

    2. Jamie Smith

    This English batsman can bat at any position. He can open, form a partnership with Narine, or finish matches. Additionally, he could solve KKR’s wicketkeeping issue, as de Kock and Rishabh Gurunath have been released. Jamie Smith has already scored 130 runs in 5 T20 matches at a strike rate of 194.02.

    3. Jacob Duffy

    Duffy could be an ideal choice to strengthen KKR’s pace attack, especially in death overs. The New Zealand bowler has taken 53 wickets in 38 T20 matches. After Russell’s retirement, he could become KKR’s main weapon in the death overs.

    4. Prithvi Shaw

    KKR needs a strong Indian opener, and Prithvi Shaw could fill that gap. The Indian batsman has recently shown consistency in domestic cricket. KKR’s head coach Abhishek Nayar has also expressed interest in coaching Shaw. With a base price of just ₹75 lakh, he is an affordable option for the team.

    5. Venkatesh Iyer

    The team may try to bring him back. Despite being released, Iyer shares a good relationship with KKR. He could be valuable as a future captain. Iyer’s interest in the team is clear, so a reunion in the auction is possible.

  • IPL 2026: Champions RCB Target These 8 New Faces Ahead of Mini Auction

    IPL 2026: Champions RCB Target These 8 New Faces Ahead of Mini Auction

    With the IPL 2026 auction approaching, the current champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have already retained 17 players. This leaves them with 8 vacant slots, including only two overseas spots. With ₹16.40 crore remaining in their purse, the franchise is expected to focus on fixing small gaps in the squad rather than making big changes.

    নিলামে চ্যাম্পিয়ন আরসিবির লক্ষ্য এই ৮ নতুন মুখ!

    Primary Target: Replacement for Lungi Ngidi

    RCB’s first task will be to find a replacement for Lungi Ngidi. There will be various options available—new-ball bowlers as well as death-over specialists.

    While Sri Lankan yorker specialist Matheesha Pathirana may be expensive, other alternatives such as Reece Topley, Matt Henry, Gerald Coetzee, and Spencer Johnson are likely to be on RCB’s radar.

    Possible Overseas Pace Targets

    Matheesha Pathirana

    Gerald Coetzee

    Anrich Nortje

    Reece Topley

    Spencer Johnson

    Matt Henry

    If RCB manage to grab any of these pacers at a reasonable price, their bowling backup will be significantly strengthened.

    Kohli–Faf Want a Stronger Allrounder Unit

    RCB have already released Liam Livingstone. Though there’s still a chance to buy him back, cheaper alternatives like Moeen Ali, Glenn Maxwell, Wanindu Hasaranga, or Aaron Hardie may also be available in the auction.
    With two overseas slots open, the team must choose wisely.

    Among Indian allrounders, RCB could target:

    Rajvardhan Hangargekar

    Atharva Taide

    Mahipal Lomror

    Need for a Backup Top-Order Batter

    RCB’s first-choice backup top-order option was Venkatesh Iyer, but acquiring him will be tough.

    Thus, the franchise is likely to look at players like:

    Prithvi Shaw

    Sheikh Rasheed

    Wicketkeeping Department

    With Tim Seifert released, RCB need a backup wicketkeeper. Since no overseas slots are free for this category, they will target Indians.

    Possible options:

    Luvnith Sisodia

    Bansh Bedi

    Most Popular Indian Bowling Targets

    Among Indian pacers, the most sought-after names are expected to be:

    Simarjeet Singh

    Kamlesh Nagarkoti

    Chetan Sakariya

    Akash Madhwal

    Among spinners:

    Rahul Chahar

    Karn Sharma

    Kumar Kartikeya

    RCB might be able to sign a few of them without breaking the bank.

    RCB’s Probable 8 Targets for IPL 2026 Auction
    Overseas Fast Bowlers

    Reece Topley

    Matt Henry

    Gerald Coetzee

    Overseas Allrounders

    Wanindu Hasaranga

    Moeen Ali

    Indian Allrounders / Bowlers

    Mahipal Lomror (Indian spin allrounder)

    Rajvardhan Hangargekar (Indian pace allrounder)

    Simarjeet Singh (Indian fast bowler)

    Rahul Chahar (Indian leg-spinner)

    Batting & Wicketkeeping

    Prithvi Shaw (Top-order batter)

    Luvnith Sisodia (Indian wicketkeeper)

    The core of the champion squad is already set so RCB will prioritize picking the right “squad players” rather than big superstars.
    How the Patidar–Kohli-led unit uses their ₹16.40 crore purse will be interesting to watch.

  • IPL 2026: CSK vs KKR in a bidding war for this Proteas cricketer!

    IPL 2026: CSK vs KKR in a bidding war for this Proteas cricketer!

    As the IPL 2026 auction approaches, speculation continues to rise. A major bidding war may erupt this time over South Africa’s experienced batter David Miller. Already in India for a five-match T20 series, Miller wants to prove in this series that his reputation as a “finisher” is still intact.

    নিলামে এই প্রোটিয়া ক্রিকেটারের জন্য বিডিং ওয়ারে CSK vs KKR!

     

    Lucknow Super Giants did not retain him, so Miller has entered his name in this year’s auction pool. At this moment, former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra mentioned on his YouTube channel that multiple teams might go after Miller.

    Aakash Chopra said, “This is a very important series for David Miller. Even though Lucknow released him, he is still a quality cricketer. In today’s IPL, almost every team needs a finisher who can bat at No. 6 or 7. From Chennai Super Kings to Kolkata Knight Riders.”

    He added, “Delhi Capitals, Rajasthan Royals, and even Miller’s old team Gujarat Titans will be looking for a backup overseas batter. So there is a very high chance that Miller will be sold for a big price.”

    A total of 1,390 players registered for the IPL 2026 auction. From that list, 350 players have been shortlisted—240 Indians and 110 overseas players. Across the 10 franchises, 77 slots are still open, including 31 spots reserved exclusively for overseas players. Naturally, the demand for established finishers like Miller is sky-high.

    David Miller’s recent form and vast experience have made him one of the major attractions in the auction. As Chopra suggested, several teams are keeping an eye on him. If CSK, KKR, Delhi, Rajasthan, or even Gujarat decide to bid for him, it would come as no surprise.

  • IPL 2026: These Star Players on RCB’s Target List for Mini-Auction!

    IPL 2026: These Star Players on RCB’s Target List for Mini-Auction!

    Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) enter the IPL 2026 mini-auction (IPL 2026) with a calm and calculated strategy after back-to-back successful seasons. The defending champions have retained their core group of 17 players, including Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Josh Hazlewood, and captain Rajat Patidar. Their approach isn’t to overhaul the squad but to strengthen specific departments where improvement is needed.

    নিলামের এই তারকাদের টার্গেট করছে চ্যাম্পিয়ন RCB!

     
    With English all-rounder Liam Livingstone and South African pacer Lungi Ngidi being released, RCB now have an additional ₹16.40 crore in their purse. Using this budget, the franchise aims to fill eight vacant slots, including two overseas positions.
     

    Where Does RCB Need Strengthening?

    1. Overseas Strike Pacer (Top Priority)

    Despite having Josh Hazlewood and Nuwan Thushara in their pace attack, both have limitations—Hazlewood’s workload management and Thushara’s lack of experience. This makes a world-class overseas strike pacer RCB’s biggest requirement.

    The best-suited option is Anrich Nortje (released by DC). His 145+ km/h pace and aggressive bowling make him deadly on Bengaluru’s batting-friendly pitches.
    Another strong choice is Gerald Coetzee (released by GT), who can serve as a long-term backup for Hazlewood.
    To strengthen death bowling, RCB may also consider bringing back Mustafizur Rahman.

    2. Indian Middle-Order / Finisher (Domestic Balance)

    Despite a stable top order, RCB need a strong Indian middle-order batter capable of playing spin and finishing games—especially since their overseas slots are limited.

    The premium option is Venkatesh Iyer (released by KKR). A left-handed power-hitter who can bat at No. 3 or No. 4 and contribute with part-time pace.
    A more realistic and budget-friendly option is Mahipal Lomror, whom RCB may consider bringing back. He is a left-handed batter who can also bowl useful leg-spin.
    RCB may also take a bold call by targeting Prithvi Shaw.

    3. Wicket-Taking Spin Option

    Even with Krunal Pandya and Suyash Sharma retained, RCB lack a high-impact, wicket-taking specialist spinner—the missing link in their bowling lineup.

    The top target in this category is Ravi Bishnoi (released by LSG), known for his consistent strike ability in the middle overs.
    A reunion with Wanindu Hasaranga is also a realistic possibility.

    4. Overseas All-Rounder (Livingstone’s Replacement)

    With Liam Livingstone released, the franchise needs a versatile overseas all-rounder. The ideal option is Michael Bracewell (released by DC), who offers left-handed batting in the middle order along with economical off-spin—perfect for squad balance.

    RCB are not looking for dramatic changes; instead, they aim to sharpen their championship squad by filling specific gaps with the right players. Their strategy for the IPL 2026 mini-auction is calculated, not aggressive. Now it remains to be seen whether this structured approach helps them achieve repeated success in the upcoming season.

  • IPL 2026: CSK Preparing an Aggressive Strategy to Target These Players in Mega Auction!

    IPL 2026: CSK Preparing an Aggressive Strategy to Target These Players in Mega Auction!

    Five-time IPL champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are heading into a major squad overhaul ahead of the IPL 2026 Mega Auction. With the departure of three key players—Ravindra Jadeja, Sam Curran, and the retired Ravichandran Ashwin—the franchise has several significant gaps to fill. Although CSK secured one of their top targets, Sanju Samson, through a trade with Rajasthan Royals, the upcoming auction still poses multiple challenges.

    নিলামে এই ক্রিকেটারদের দলে টানতে পরিকল্পনায় ব্যস্ত CSK!

     

    With a remaining purse of ₹43.40 crore, the Super Kings are expected to take an aggressive approach, focusing on strengthening their batting, all-round abilities, spin department, and death bowling.

    1. Overseas Finisher & Power All-Rounder – Top Priority

    The exits of Jadeja and Curran have left a major void in the middle and lower-middle order. CSK urgently needs a powerful overseas finisher or an all-rounder capable of handling multiple roles.

    Liam Livingstone (Released by RCB)
    A destructive hitter who also offers useful leg-spin and off-spin—perfect for filling two roles at once.

    David Miller (Released by LSG)
    One of the most reliable death-overs finishers in the IPL with calmness and experience.

    Cameron Green (Released by RCB)
    Expected to be one of the most expensive buys, but his long-term value as a fast-bowling all-rounder makes him an attractive option.

    2. Frontline Indian Spinner – Crucial for Chepauk

    With the Jadeja–Ashwin era ending, CSK’s spin department looks thin. On the spin-friendly Chepauk pitch, a top-quality Indian spinner is indispensable.

    Ravi Bishnoi (Released by LSG)
    A consistent wicket-taking leg-spinner with the ability to win matches.

    Rahul Chahar (Released by SRH)
    Experienced, dependable, and proven in the T20 format.

    3. Overseas Fast Bowler – Death Overs Specialist

    After releasing Matheesha Pathirana, CSK’s death-overs bowling has become uncertain. Their primary strategy will be to re-buy Pathirana at a lower price.
    If that doesn’t work:

    Gerald Coetzee (Released by GT)
    A fiery, aggressive pacer capable of taking wickets with raw pace.

    Anrich Nortje (Released by DC)
    A seasoned international fast bowler known for his express speed.

    4. Indian Batting & All-Round Depth

    To strengthen domestic batting depth and add flexibility, CSK may target:

    Venkatesh Iyer (Released by KKR)
    Can bat anywhere from opening to middle order, plus useful medium pace.

    Prithvi Shaw (Released by DC)
    A fearless attacking opener who can also serve as a strong backup option.

    Conclusion

    The IPL 2026 Mega Auction is not just a talent hunt for CSK—it is the foundation for building their next era. With Sanju Samson already secured, the focus now shifts to strong all-rounders, quality spinners, and reliable death-bowling specialists. And with a hefty purse remaining, CSK might produce some major surprises on auction day.

  • IPL 2026: Even After Breaking Records, This Star’s Salary Cannot Exceed ₹18 Crore! New IPL Rule

    IPL 2026: Even After Breaking Records, This Star’s Salary Cannot Exceed ₹18 Crore! New IPL Rule

    Australian all-rounder Cameron Green, who is being targeted heavily by both Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings is expected to attract one of the highest bids in the IPL 2026 auction. However, according to a new rule, no overseas player can be bought for more than ₹18 crore.

    রেকর্ড ভাঙলেও এই তারকার পারিশ্রমিক ১৮ কোটির বেশি নয়! IPL নতুন বিধান

     

    In the 2023 IPL auction, KKR bought Mitchell Starc for a record ₹24.75 crore, while Pat Cummins was purchased by Sunrisers Hyderabad for ₹20.5 crore. At that time, Sam Curran’s ₹18.5 crore deal created relatively less buzz.

    Cameron Green was bought by Mumbai Indians for ₹17.5 crore in 2023. The following year, he was traded to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for the same amount.
    Across the 2023 and 2024 IPL seasons, Green played 29 matches, scoring 707 runs at a strike rate of 153.70.
    For the 2026 auction, he has listed himself with the highest base price of ₹2 crore.

    New “Maximum Fee” Rule

    Under the new rule, the maximum auction price for any overseas player cannot exceed ₹18 crore. If a franchise bids more than ₹18 crore, the extra amount will be deposited into the BCCI’s Player Welfare Fund, rather than going to the player.

    This rule applies particularly to mini-auctions, so that foreign players cannot exploit supply-demand imbalances to earn excessively high amounts.

    An IPL source clarified:

    “If the highest bid in a mega auction is ₹20 crore, then the maximum limit for the next mini-auction will be ₹18 crore.”

    “If the highest bid in a mega auction is ₹16 crore, then the mini-auction limit will also be ₹16 crore.”

    Indian Players Not Affected

    This rule does not apply to Indian players.
    Indian players will receive the full auction amount, and the sum will be fully deducted from the franchise’s purse.

    Auction Details

    A total of 77 slots will be filled this year, including 31 overseas slots. The list of 16 capped Indian players is still being processed based on franchise preferences.

    The auction will be held on 16 December, where the combination of Cameron Green’s high demand and the new salary cap rule is expected to be one of the biggest talking points for IPL fans.

  • IPL 2026: KKR Could Surprise with This Former Cricketer in the Auction!

    IPL 2026: KKR Could Surprise with This Former Cricketer in the Auction!

    IPL 2026 auction has gained new excitement with South African wicketkeeper-batsman Quinton de Kock. Although he was not in the initial list, de Kock has now been included as a late addition in the list of 350 players.

    নিলামের দর হাকিয়ে চমক দিতে পারে KKR এই প্রাক্তন ক্রিকেটার!

     

    After being released by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), many assumed that he would not be sold in the next season’s auction. However, his recent performances have completely changed that perception. He played a blazing 106-run innings in the third ODI against India. In addition, he scored impressive innings of 63, 123*, and 53 runs in three ODIs against Pakistan.

    This year’s auction will not only feature familiar players but also some new Sri Lankan cricketers. Travin Mathew, Binura Fernando, Kushal Perera, and Dunith Wellalage will be part of the list. Additionally, Australia’s all-rounder Cameron Green is expected to be in List 1 and could become the most expensive player in the auction.

    The BCCI stated in a mail, “The auction will be held with 350 players and will begin at 1 PM UAE time (2:30 PM IST) on Tuesday, December 16, at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi.”

    From a team finance perspective, KKR is entering the auction with the largest budget. They have ₹64.30 crore to fill 13 vacant spots. Meanwhile, 2023 champions Chennai Super Kings have a budget of ₹43.4 crore and are aiming to fine-tune their squad in the auction.

    So, the IPL 2026 auction promises to be thrilling once again, setting the stage for new stories and big surprises for cricket fans.