with ipl 2026 With the mini auction ending on December 16, the discussion about the title contenders has intensified. Experienced Indian spinner adding weight to this debate Ravichandran Ashwin has shared his predictions for the four teams most likely to reach the semi-finals next season. Taking inspiration from his experience as both a player and a keen observer, Ashwin highlighted team stability, smart auction strategies and player availability as decisive elements in shaping his top four.
5-time champion Ravichandran is at the forefront of Ashwin’s choice.
Ashwin’s name was taken Mumbai Indians (MI) As their first choice to make it to the semi-finals of IPL 2026. The five-time champions entered the auction with an already strong squad, and retained most of their key players ahead of the bidding. According to Ashwin, this consistency gives MI a clear edge over other franchises who are still looking for balance.
He also praised MI’s auction approach, pointing to their ability to secure quality players without spending too much. acquisition of quinton de kock For a modest INR 1 crore this turned out to be a particularly shrewd move, adding experience and firepower at the top of the order. Confident in their overall structure, Ashwin commented in a video shared by the franchise that Mumbai are almost certain to be among the top teams when the season reaches its business end.
“I think MI are definitely going to get there,” Ashwin said in a video shared by Mumbai Indians on social media.
Conditional place of defending champions
defending champion Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) Ashwin was his second choice, although his support came with significant conditions. Recognizing the strength of the core they have built and their smart recruiting, this also includes Venkatesh IyerAshwin stressed that RCB’s fortunes will largely depend on the players’ fitness.
He particularly highlighted the importance of Josh HazlewoodFitness and availability of left arm fast bowler Yash DayalAshwin suggested that if both the bowlers remain fit and available throughout the season, RCB have every chance of reaching the playoffs for the third consecutive time, However, any disruption on that front could significantly impact his campaign,
Also read: IPL 2026 auction: Complete squads of all 10 teams after bidding
Shreyas Iyer-led team earned the trust of experienced players
Ashwin also supported Punjab Kings (PBKS)Last season’s runners-up will feature in the IPL 2026 semi-finals. Like MI and RCB, PBKS focused on retaining their core group, which led to ensuring stability within the team Shreyas IyerAshwin felt that this consistency, coupled with the targeted additions in the auction, made them a good team,
inclusion of ben dwarshuis And cooper connolly Depth and flexibility were added to the Punjab lineup, strengthening both their bowling resources and all-round options. Ashwin said that Punjab appears to have become one of the most balanced teams in the new season, along with Mumbai.
“I am confident that RCB will place again. Punjab Kings, unless RCB have Hazlewood or maybe they have the services of Yash Dayal, then I don’t know where they will be placed, but I think Punjab and Mumbai have put together good teams.” Added Ashwin.
Former champions join the top four
Completing his list, Ashwin chose Rajasthan Royals (RR)A franchise he previously represented. Admitting that his opinions have evolved over time, Ashwin praised the Royals, whom he described as a ‘very good team’. He felt that RR’s overall team structure, a mix of youth with experience, could make them a strong contender in IPL 2026. According to Ashwin, his planning and execution in the auction shows a clear vision, which puts him in a good position to challenge for a semi-final spot.
“My opinion is a little different than what I thought some time ago and I think it is Rajasthan Royals. They have put together a very good team.” Ashwin signed.
Also read: IPL 2026 auction: Complete list of sold players with their prices
