With an overall domestic T20 average of over 37 and a strike rate of almost 129 in 34 matches, Easwaran offers franchises a rare combination: a technically solid, top-class Indian batsman who can anchor the innings, convert starts into big scores and accelerate aggressively when required, making him a prime target for teams that need stability and quality in their top three.
5 franchises who could target Abhimanyu Easwaran in the IPL 2026 mini-auction
1. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
KKR will enter the auction with a huge purse of ₹64.30 crore and a significant need to rebuild their entire Indian batting core, especially after the release of Venkatesh Iyer. KKR needs a reliable Indian batsman for the criticism number 3 slot to follow their retained openers (probably Rahmanullah Gurbaz/Jason Roy And Rinku Singh). Hailing from Bengal and captaining the Ranji team, Easwaran brings with him a strong local connection and the requisite temperament. KKR can invest a substantial amount in Easwaran to provide the stability and consistency needed to build a high-quality Indian top order in the long term, reducing the risk of an untimely collapse.
2. Capitals of Delhi (DC)
Capitals of Delhi keep a sturdy wallet ₹21.80 crore and are desperate for a consistent, quality Indian batsman for their top order once they are released Faf du Plessis And Jake Fraser-McGurk. DC’s top flight often relied too heavily on their top foreign players, making an Indian anchor a priority. Easwaran’s recent explosive form in the SMAT proves he is not just a red ball specialist, and he could be deployed seamlessly in number 3 or as an opener. Acquiring Easwaran would provide the technical certainty and big-scoring ability to stabilize DC’s innings and ensure the presence of a reliable domestic run-scorer.
3. Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have the second largest stock exchange of ₹43.40 crore and are undergoing strategic reconstruction. While they kept Travel Giikwad and acquired Sanju Samsonthey lack depth in top quality experienced Indian hitters for the number 3/4 position. Easwaran’s ability to play the long innings and adjust his strike rate makes him an attractive option for the traditionally slow Chepauk surface, where an anchor is paramount. CSK values players with a solid domestic record, and Easwaran fits the bill perfectly, providing a stable and reliable Indian batting option that they can groom for an important middle-order role.
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4. Gujarat Titans (GT)
Gujarat titans have a modest wallet ₹12.90 crore and a great dependence on their retained Indian top duo, Shubman Gill And Sai Sudharsan. However, they need a strong one Indian backup opener and a reliable third Indian batsman in case of injury or poor form for Gill or Sudharsan. Easwaran’s high T20 average and temperament in big matches make him an ideal asset for this role. GT’s strategy often involves picking underrated domestic performers with huge upside, and Easwaran’s recent display of aggressive T20 batting will make him a prime candidate to provide a high-quality domestic reserve.
5. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)
RCB, with a wallet of ₹16.40 croremaintained a strong top position but released several Indian batters including Mayank Agarwal. They need a proven, quality Indian batsman who can serve as an opener or reliable number 3/4 hitter to ensure stability when their explosive players fail. Easwaran’s recent SMAT century showcases the impressive T20 performances RCB needs from its domestic talent. Given the shorter boundaries at the Chinnaswamy Stadium, a technically gifted batsman like Easwaran, who can capitalize on the surface and convert starts, would be an excellent investment to complete their Indian batting line-up.
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