The stage is now set to host the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini-auction set for the 16th of December at Abu Dhabi, with an astounding 1.355 participants who have registered for 77 spots across franchises.
A Huge Pool of Aspirants
As per the auction list accessed by Cricbuzz the 1,355-strong roster includes 1062 Indian cricketers as well as 293 players from overseas. The Indians are a few familiar names – such as Mayank Agarwal, KS Bharat, Rahul Chahar, Ravi Bishnoi, Akash Deep, Deepak Hooda Venkatesh Iyer Sarfaraz Khan Prithvi Shaw and Umesh Yadav -who are who are leading the battle.
On the international front the list of players includes famous players from Australia, England, South Africa, Afghanistan, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, and many other cricketing nations.
The increase in registrations shows the level of competition that the upcoming auction will likely to be. A wide range of players, from experienced campaigners to promising young talents are competing for a few slots.
Who’s at the Top of the Price Ladder
One of the highlights in the ranking is who placed themselves at the top of the list with only two Indian players -Venkatesh Iyer and Ravi Bishnoi and Venkatesh Iyer have set their price base at Rs.2 crore, which is the top bracket.
On the international front On the international front, there on the international front, there are 43 international players who have the Rs2 crore base cost, indicating they’re expecting to get significant prices. The list of players includes names like Cameron Green, Steve Smith, Jamie Smith, Josh Inglis, and players from Afghanistan, England, New Zealand, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and the West Indies.
Some notable entries include international veterans with varying base prices, for example, Shakib Al Hasan -who has a base cost of Rs1 crore and lesser-known or newcomers such as Adithya Ashok (India-born spinner for New Zealand) at Rs75 lakh and Virandeep Singh, an Indian-born all-rounder who is now representing Malaysia and Malaysia, who is priced at 30 lakh.
With 45 participants in the top bracket and numerous others at different base prices, this auction offers franchises and viewers lots to watch.
The Big Surprise: Maxwell Sits Out
One of the most talked about developments was one of most talked about is the lack in the form of Glenn Maxwell. Glenn Maxwell is the Australian all-rounder who has been a part of the IPL for 13 seasons and played in 141 matches, has decided to decline to participate in the mini-auction in 2026.
In a touching message, Maxwell expressed his gratitude to the Indians for guiding his career. He also acknowledged his memories, the challenges along with the players and the enthusiasm that is the passion of Indian supporters.
His absence could signal the end of an eraleaving an opening for experienced players that franchises could have to find a way to fill.
Stakes, Strategy and What Comes Next
In the lead up to auction day It is important to note that all 10 IPL franchises have Rs237.55 crore together available to spend. Certain franchises are greater spending power than others. For instance, Kolkata Knight Riders reportedly have the largest amount left with Rs64.30 crore, whereas Chennai Super Kings are next with Rs43.40 crore.
Of the 77 slots that need to fill, 31, slots are specifically earmarked for international players.
However, this register isn’t final franchises are allowed to amend their names. The deadline to add names on the list was set for December 3. Final confirmation was required on the 5th of December.
The mix of players who have never been capped and veteran Indian campaigners and marquee international players and the many high-base-priced entrantsauctions like this could change the shape of numerous teams and shift the power balance across the league.
What to Watch For
- Do the two Indian base players worth Rs2 crore, Ravi Bishnoi and Venkatesh Iyer will they be able to secure lucrative bids? Their price-based base suggests franchises are interested in their skills.
- Which marquee international playersfrom the 43 players of the top bracketwhich ones will attract the most attention? With 31 slots available for international players teams must be cautious.
- Are there any new talent or lesser-known player (e.g., Adithya Ashok, Virandeep Singh) find places to shine and perform under pressure? This could be a breakthrough moment for a few.
- With Maxwell gone do teams prefer players who can play all-round to fill the void or will they choose to go with specialists? The dynamic and balance of each team may shift drastically.
The countdown until December 16 starts. With 1,355 contestants competing for 77 slots The 2026 mini-auction is expected to be among the most intense, exciting and highly anticipated auctions of the IPL history.