The Indian Premier League (IPL) has released the trimmed roster of players eligible for the upcoming 2026 mini-auction, reducing the original pool of 1,390 registrations to 350 names. All ten franchises will meet in Abu Dhabi on December 16 to battle for talent as they shape their squads for the new season.
Most of the shortlisted players are Indian, with a mix of experienced internationals and unrivaled talent. Both foreign cricketers and lesser known players would be hoping for a breakthrough. Teams have 77 roster spots available, including 31 foreign signing slots, which can be filled during the mini-auction.
Players will participate in the auction in eight basic price categories, starting from ₹30 lakh and going up to ₹2 crore. Performance in the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 and the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2026 could influence their chances of being picked in the auction.
From Ranji to riches: Players set for IPL breakthrough
Auqib Nabi
Auqib Nabi is one of the most reliable fast bowlers in India’s domestic scene. He bowls in the 125-130 kmph range, relying on control, swing and new ball skills that have drawn comparisons to Bhuvneshwar Kumar.
The pacer has been exceptional in recent Ranji Trophy seasons, taking 44 wickets at an average of less than 14 in 2024-25. His impressive performances against Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad and Rajasthan have thrust him into the national spotlight.
With his reliability at all stages and a strong national record, Nabi now looks set for a breakthrough in the IPL auction. Several franchises are expected to target him and he could land his maiden IPL deal at a strong price.
Ravichandran Smaran and Abhinav Tejrana
Ravichandran Smaran was signed by Sunrisers Hyderabad for Rs. 30 lakh as Adam Zampa’s replacement for the IPL 2025 season. The 22-year-old has already scored three double centuries in just thirteen first-class matches.
He has delivered big blows in difficult conditions, bailing out Karnataka from difficult positions and showing a mix of calm batting and clean batting. After performing well in white ball cricket last year, he has now also proven himself in red ball cricket.
Abhinav Tejrana also impressed in the Ranji Trophy. After leaving Delhi for more opportunities, he started his Ranji career with a double hundred for Goa and continued to score runs, including a century against Saurashtra. His consistent performances have made him one of the most promising hitters on the auction block.
Sarfaraz Khan and Shams Mulani
Sarfaraz Khan struggled in the Ranji Trophy campaign, in contrast to his usually tough runs. He scored only 111 runs in his first six innings and could not convert a single start into fifty. However, he scored 67 runs in the last match of the first leg against Himachal Pradesh.
Shams Mulani is one of Mumbai’s most reliable match winners. He is once again in contention for a top-three spot among wicket-takers. Despite strong competition among left-arm spinners, he continues to perform with remarkable consistency.
Mulani has played an important role in Mumbai’s position in Group D. He has contributed important runs with the bat and performed decisive spells with the ball. His standout performances include a seven-wicket haul against J&K and a crucial half-century plus a five-for against Himachal.
Also read: Unknown Indian names that will shock the IPL auction table
#Ranji #riches #Players #set #IPL #breakthrough