The IPL mini-auction for the upcoming 19th edition of the IPL began on December 16 in Abu Dhabi. England’s 25-year-old youngster Jamie Smith was expected to make his debut in IPL 2026, but he was not sold in the auction.
The franchises participated in the auction extensively, but did not get the services of the Englishman. Jamie Smith plays in all three formats of the game for England and is one of the very few players to currently play in all formats.
Jamie Smith will not make his IPL debut in 2026
England wicketkeeper Jamie Smith was expected to be one of the most sought-after players in the mini-auction.
Playing for England, he has proved why he can be an asset in limited overs cricket, which requires fast scoring.
In the mini-auction, many franchises like Kolkata Knight Riders were looking for a wicketkeeper who can wear the gloves.
Jamie Smith’s T20 numbers
In his short career, Smith has played 97 T20 matches and scored 1687 runs in those matches. At an average of around 25, Jamie Smith has increased his strike rate to around 145.
As well as being a wicketkeeper, Smith is also a natural clean striker of the ball, as he can often launch deliveries and collect them out of the park. Particularly due to his height favoring long leverage, Smith can also be effective during power plays and lower down the order.
Apart from the Hundred and the Vitality Blast, Jamie Smith has only played in the ILT20.