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The IPL 2026 Mini Auction has already seen some players bagging lucrative contracts for the upcoming IPL season. With all franchises trying to fill in the gaps in the team and make a squad ready to lift the title, it sure was going to be a banging Auction. And so far, it has lived up to its expectations. While some names were expected to trigger bidding wars, others were totally unexpected.
So let's take a look at the top-most expensive buys at the IPL 2026 Mini Auction.
1. Cameron Green (INR 25.20Cr to KKR)
If there was ever a moment that made jaws drop at this auction, it was the bidding war for Cameron Green. The Australian all-rounder has officially shattered records, becoming the most expensive overseas player in IPL history. Kolkata Knight Riders didn’t just break the bank; they practically emptied the vault to secure him for a staggering INR 25.20 crore. This massive bid eclipsed his compatriot Mitchell Starc (INR 24.75 crore). It was a fierce battle, but KKR was determined to get their man.
2. Matheesha Pathirana (INR 18.00Cr to KKR)
Another shocker came in the form of Sri Lankan pace sensation, Matheesha Pathirana. Known for his slingy action reminiscent of Lasith Malinga, "Baby Malinga" triggered a massive tug-of-war between franchises. Starting with a modest base price of INR 2 crore, his value skyrocketed in minutes. In the end, it was Kolkata Knight Riders again who flexed their financial muscle, snapping him up for a whopping INR 18 crore.
3. Prashant Veer (INR 14.20Cr to CSK)
In the biggest shock of the day, uncapped all-rounder Prashant Veer went for a life-changing INR 14.20 crore. Starting at a humble base price of INR 30 lakh, he sparked a frenzy before Chennai Super Kings sealed the deal. CSK seems to have found their next long-term spin-bowling all-rounder and wasn't afraid to pay a premium for him.
4. Karthik Sharma (INR 14.20Cr to CSK)
Lightning struck twice for Chennai Super Kings as they spent another INR 14.20 crore on uncapped wicketkeeper-batter Karthik Sharma. Matching Veer’s record, Karthik’s price surged from INR 30 lakh in a matter of minutes. It is a rare sight to see a team spend this much on uncapped talent, but CSK obviously rates his hitting ability very highly.
5. Auqib Dar (INR 8.40Cr to DC)
The first uncapped player to make waves was Jammu & Kashmir pacer Auqib Dar. Delhi Capitals fought hard to sign the speedster, eventually paying INR 8.40 crore, way above his INR 30 lakh starting point. It is a huge leap for the youngster, and DC will be hoping his raw pace can tear through opposition batting lineups.
