Cameron Green Secures ₹30.5 Crore Deal with KKR in IPL Mock Auction

The mock auction simulation for the upcoming TATA IPL 2026, hosted by JioStar on JioHotstar, revealed that Australian all-rounder Cameron Green is poised to attract significant attention. He was projected to be the highest bid at ₹30.5 crore, with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) emerging as the frontrunners in the simulated auction. The actual mini-auction is scheduled for tomorrow.

Experts participating in the auction war room expressed a range of strategies and expectations. Robin Uthappa, a notable commentator, highlighted KKR’s aggressive approach towards securing Green, while also discussing the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) strategy for the auction. Uthappa anticipated that CSK would seek a middle-order all-rounder, estimating their bid for a player like Green to be around ₹20 crore in the actual auction. He stated, “I thought they would go somewhere around ₹25–28 crore. Realistically, I think they would go up to around ₹20 crore in the actual auction, because they would want to keep space for other Indian and overseas players.”

Uthappa elaborated on the need for KKR to have a strong batting order, suggesting that Green should ideally bat at No. 3. He also commented on the acquisition of Matheesha Pathirana for ₹13 crore, noting the importance of having a skilled death bowler in their lineup. “With the kind of coaching staff KKR have, Pathirana can be very effective at the death,” Uthappa emphasized, adding that a change of franchise might motivate him to perform better.

Chennai Super Kings Focus on Form and Youth

In the same discussion, Suresh Raina reflected on CSK’s decision to acquire Sarfaraz Khan for ₹7 crore. Raina praised Khan’s current form, asserting that he brings a unique skill set to the team. “You don’t get that kind of player easily—the range of shots he plays, the confidence he has,” Raina said. He believes that Khan could justify his price tag by winning matches for CSK, given his recent performances in first-class cricket and his inclusion in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.

Raina also outlined CSK’s overall auction strategy, emphasizing the acquisition of key players, including Rahul Chahar as a leg-spinner and Wanindu Hasaranga to bolster the spin department. He mentioned that the absence of established players like Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin necessitated these additions. “We also strengthened our pace attack—Anrich Nortje is there, he has pace and can bowl yorkers consistently,” Raina noted.

Highlighting the importance of young talent, Raina mentioned players like Ayush Mhatre, Dewald Brevis, Sanju Samson, and Shivam Dube as part of the mix, indicating a fresh and dynamic approach. He emphasized the vital role of young players who can respond positively even after setbacks, saying, “You need that fire—players who go out and express themselves fearlessly.”

As the auction approaches, CSK may also consider re-acquiring Matheesha Pathirana, particularly given their concerns regarding death bowling. Raina’s insights suggest that CSK is keen on building a balanced and competitive squad capable of contending for the title.

The excitement surrounding the TATA IPL 2026 auction continues to build as teams finalize their strategies and prepare to make pivotal decisions that could impact their success in the season ahead.