IPL 2026 Auction Overview
The much-anticipated IPL 2026 auction is set to take place in Abu Dhabi this December 16. Fans and teams alike are buzzing with excitement as 359 players have been shortlisted, leading to a thrilling mini-auction.
Live Telecast and Streaming Information
For cricket enthusiasts in India, the live telecast of the IPL 2026 auction will air on the Star Sports network channels. Viewers can tune in starting at 2 PM IST, with the auction kicking off at 1 PM local time. Additionally, for those looking to stream the event, JioHotstar will provide live coverage via their app and website.
Player Highlights and Statistics
The player pool for this year's auction is notable for its diversity. Out of the 359 players, 244 are Indian cricketers and 115 are overseas players. This mix promises an exciting auction as teams vie for top talent. Here's a quick breakdown of essential auction statistics:
| Player Category | Count |
|---|
| Indian Players | 244 |
| Overseas Players | 115 |
| Highest Reserve Price | ?2 crore |
| Lowest Reserve Price | ?30 lakh |
| Players at ?2 crore Base Price | 40 |
Franchise Strategies and Player Slots
The auction will see 10 franchises competing for a total of 77 slots, of which 31 will be filled by overseas players. Leading the charge is Kolkata Knight Riders with the highest remaining budget of ?64.30 crore and a maximum potential of filling 13 slots.
New Maximum-Fee Rule for Overseas Players
This auction introduces a fresh twist with the 'maximum-fee' rule for overseas players. No overseas cricketer can command over ?18 crore, even if bids exceed that amount. This new regulation aims to ensure equitable team budgets while keeping the auction exciting. The rule is pegged against the previous IPL mega auction maximum of ?27 crore, set by Rishabh Pant.
Watch Along and Stay Updated!
Stay tuned as the IPL 2026 auction unfolds — real-time updates, player movements, and thrilling bids await! Catch all the action live and be part of the excitement.