highly anticipated IPL 2026 Mini-Auction Scheduled for December 16 in Abu Dhabi, where 1,355 players will compete for 77 available slots across 10 franchise teams. Collectively, the franchises have a combined purse of ₹237.55 crore to build competitive teams for the upcoming season. The auction, announced on November 15, follows a period of dramatic player retention and release activity that has reshaped squads and left franchises in search of key assets, especially versatile all-rounders. Teams are also grappling with the rule capping foreign players at 31, which is adding a strategic layer to their acquisitions.
Kolkata Knight Riders They currently have the biggest purse of ₹64.3 crore and the most slots to fill at 13, while Mumbai Indians have the least funds available at just ₹2.75 crore for minimal roster reshuffle. Chennai Super KingsConcluding a tough IPL 2025 campaign, the finalists have released high-profile players like Rachin Ravindra Release of ₹43.4 crore for reconstruction efforts. With the mini-auction approaching, all eyes are on potential game-changers, and among them, Ravindra stands out as a prime target due to his multifaceted skill set and promising IPL track record.
Rachin Ravindra’s promising IPL trajectory
new zealand All-rounder Ravindra bursts onto the IPL scene with Chennai Super Kings in 2024, bought for ₹1.8 crore ahead of explosive debut game against them Royal Challengers BangaloreIn 18 matches for CSK, he scored 413 runs at a strike rate of 143,90, including two fifties – his best being 65* – along with 40 fours and 16 sixes, although wickets eluded him, In IPL 2025, retained for ₹4 crore via RTM, he scored 191 runs at a strike rate of 128,18 in eight matches, highlighted by another 65*, but CSK let him go after a weak team campaign, Now in the ₹2 crore base-price bracket, his left-handed top-order aggression and slow left-arm spin make him a hot commodity for franchises looking for balance,
5 franchises that can bid for Rachin Ravindra in IPL 2026 auction
- Delhi Capitals
Delhi Capitals There are major contenders for Ravindra’s services in this auction. With ₹21.80 crore left in their purse and eight slots to fill, including several at overseas venues, DC are aiming to strengthen their top order after releasing players Jake Fraser-McGurk And Faf du PlessisRavindra’s ability to bat aggressively at the top of the order, coupled with his spin bowling, fits into Delhi’s strategy of adding firepower and variety to key players KL Rahul And Prithvi Shaw,
- Gujarat Titans
Gujarat Titans₹12.9 crore and five vacancies after release Gerald Coetzee, They see Ravindra as a suitable all-rounder to complement their existing spinning giants Rashid Khan and batting anchor Shubman GillTheir ability to contribute to both departments could provide the additional balance GT needs to maintain their competitive edge,
- Mumbai Indians
Despite a modest remaining purse of only ₹2.75 crore, Mumbai Indians can target Ravindra as a cost-effective, impactful player due to his dynamic batting and useful spin bowling. MI, having released some fringe players, need versatile all-round options to support the established stars and fill the gaps in finishing roles or as a fifth bowler.
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- Lucknow Super Giants
Lucknow Super GiantsWith ₹22.95 crore and six slots including four overseas, the left-handed batsman is looking for reinforcements after the release. david miller And Ravi BishnoiRavindra’s dual ability to open or stabilize the innings with the bat and provide slower bowling options makes him an attractive candidate for LSG to strengthen their middle order with prominent pace and spin weapons,
- Kolkata Knight Riders
Kolkata Knight Riders come into the auction with the biggest purse of ₹64.3 crore and a dozen vacancies. post departure like andre russell And Venkatesh IyerKKR is looking for a reliable opening partner Sunil Narine and with spin depth Varun ChakrabortyRavindra’s aggressive left-handed batting style and slow orthodox spin perspective fits perfectly into KKR’s rebuilding blueprint, which could potentially provoke a bidding war for his services,
Also read: Glenn Maxwell has issued a touching statement after withdrawing from the IPL 2026 auction.
