Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 Mini-Auction What is shaping up to be an interesting battle of strategy and budget management. With many top franchises facing a leadership shortage and looking for top-order batsmen, the spotlight rests on the Australian legend steve smithSet at a manageable base price of Rs 2 crore, the former Australian captain brings a wealth of experience, tactical acumen and a reliable batting technique, His proven track record of steadying an innings and his previous stint as an IPL captain make him a high-impact, low-risk target, Let’s take a look at some of the franchises that are strategically positioned to secure the services of Smith,
5 teams that can target Steve Smith in IPL 2026 auction
1. Rajasthan Royals (RR)
- Purse Balance: ₹16.05 Crore | Foreign Slots: 1
Rajasthan Royals are perhaps best suited for Smith’s return. Having led the team before, Smith is familiar with the culture and tactics of the franchise. Crucially, with the hypothetical departure of key players sanju samsonThere is a big gap in RR’s top-order batting lineup. They are in dire need of an experienced, reliable anchor and potential captaincy person. With only one overseas slot to fill, Smith represents the perfect, high-value acquisition to stabilize their batting and provide leadership on the field, fitting well within their medium purse.
2. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
- Purse Balance: ₹64.30 Crore | Exotic Slots: 3 (highest purse)
KKR is entering the mini-auction with the deepest pockets, with the highest remaining purse. This financial firepower gives them the confidence to engage in bidding wars if needed. Like RR, KKR is also looking for a settled, consistent top-order batsman. The team has historically valued experienced leadership and Smith fits that need perfectly. With three overseas slots available, KKR can afford to bring in Smith as an established pillar around which they can build their batting unit for the next phase of the tournament.
3. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)
- Purse Balance: ₹22.95 Crore | Foreign Slots: 4
Despite retaining many strong foreign players such as aiden markram, Matthew BritzkeAnd Michelle MarshLSG understands the need for quality backup for high-octane tournaments. With four overseas slots open, they have the luxury of investing in experienced depth. Smith provides an elite level option or a complementary top-order option, ensuring that the team’s balance is not compromised by injuries or poor form among their retained stars. His addition will enhance the overall quality and flexibility of the team.
4. Delhi Capitals (DC)
- Purse Balance: ₹21.80 Crore | Overseas Slots: 5
Delhi Capitals have a medium budget, which suggests a strategic focus on acquiring high-impact players who can instantly break into their playing XI and complete the season. Smith, a former DC player, is a known number who has consistently performed well. Given DC needs to strengthen its core group of overseas players, Smith represents a proven, high-calibre option who can fulfill both the batting and mentorship roles required to push the team towards a playoff spot.
Also read: IPL 2026: 5 franchises that can target Jacob Duffy in the mini-auction
5. Gujarat Titans (GT)
- Purse Balance: ₹12.90 Crore | Foreign Slots: 4
Gujarat Titans face a different challenge: they have a relatively small purse, yet they need to fill four overseas slots. It sets out a budget-conscious, highly strategic approach. While they have retained the major Indian stars Shubman Gill And like foreign talents jos buttlerGT still needs players who can manage their middle order effectively and act as backup stars. Smith’s low base price of ₹2 crore makes him a highly attractive, high-quality and cost-effective option who can bowl the middle overs and guide the lower-order batsmen.
valuable numbers in ipl
Smith’s IPL pedigree makes him a valuable asset. In 103 matches, he has scored 2,485 runs, including one century and eleven fifties, with a highest score of 101. These stats underline his ability to deliver match-winning performances and provide vital stability, which many franchises are currently lacking. His availability at a modest base price ensures that he will be one of the most competitive names when the bidding war begins.
Also read: KKR legend Andre Russell reveals why he decided to retire from IPL
