Telugu Maitri, Web Desk : The IPL 2026 mini auction has just kicked off in Abu Dhabi this afternoon, and cricket fans everywhere are glued to their screens. With only 77 slots up for grabs across the 10 teams and a whopping 369 players in the pool, expect some serious fireworks as franchises battle it out to strengthen their squads for the upcoming season.
Background: IPL 2026 mini auction, Why a Mini Auction This Time?
Every three years, the IPL holds a mega auction that shakes up the teams completely, but in between, we get these smaller mini auctions to fill in the gaps. The big one happened last year for the 2025 season, so now it’s time for the 2026 tweak. Teams have already retained their core players, but with limited spots left, they’re ready to splash cash on the right talents. Over 1,300 players initially registered, narrowed down to 369 shortlisted names, making competition fierce.
Venue, Timing, and How to Watch
The action is unfolding at the stunning Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, starting at 2:30 PM IST. It’s the third year in a row the auction is held outside India. Tune in live on Star Sports channels or stream it on JioCinema. No Right to Match (RTM) cards this time, so teams have to rely purely on their strategy and remaining purse—no second chances!
Team Purses and Available Slots: Who’s Loaded?
Kolkata Knight Riders are walking in with the fattest wallet—around ₹64 crore—and plenty of slots to fill, making them the ones to watch. Chennai Super Kings aren’t far behind with over ₹43 crore. On the flip side, Mumbai Indians have a tight budget, so they’ll likely play it safe with budget picks. Overall, teams have about ₹237 crore combined to spend, but with few slots, prices for top talents could skyrocket.
Players to Watch: Who Could Fetch Big Money?
Eyes are on all-rounders like Cameron Green, Venkatesh Iyer, and Liam Livingstone—they’re perfect fits for many teams. Quinton de Kock could spark a wicketkeeper battle, while bowlers like Matheesha Pathirana might go high. Uncapped Indian talents often surprise everyone with massive bids, and this year could be no different. Seam-bowling all-rounders are in hot demand, so expect heated wars early on.
Social Media Buzz: Fans Going Wild
Social media is exploding with excitement—#IPLAuction2026 is trending big time. KKR fans are confident their team will dominate the spending, while CSK supporters are hyped for smart picks. Memes are flying, predictions are everywhere, and everyone’s debating who their favorite team should target. It’s pure chaos in the best way, with fans living every bid.
Pre-Auction Trades and Retentions Highlights
Before today, teams made some clever moves through trades to set up their strategies. Retentions locked in stars, leaving specific gaps—like spin options or overseas pace—that franchises are desperate to fill now. The season itself runs from late March to May, so these picks will shape the title race.
The IPL 2026 mini auction promises drama, surprises, and big-money moments—stay tuned as it unfolds!
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IPL 2026 Mini Auction | Live Updates – ఐపీఎల్ 2026 మినీ ఆక్షన్: అబుదాబీలో జట్ల మధ్య భారీ బిడ్డింగ్ యుద్ధం
