The IPL 2026 mini-auction is taking place today, December 16, 2025, at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi. This one-day event gives franchises a final chance to fine-tune their squads ahead of the new season, with limited slots and purses driving strategic bidding wars.
While big names dominate headlines, several underrated Indian talents are poised for breakthroughs - and few are as intriguing as Sarfaraz Khan.
Sarfaraz Khan enters the auction after going unsold in the 2025 mega-auction, a setback that seems to have fueled his fire. The Mumbai batsman has since exploded in domestic white-ball cricket, particularly in the 2025 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT). He smashed his maiden T20 century-a blistering 100 off just 47 balls against Assam-and followed
it with rapid knocks like 64 off 25 balls (including nine fours and three sixes).
These innings showcase his ability to dominate from the middle order, blending classical technique with modern aggression-perfect for IPL demands. While Sarfaraz has cemented his place in India's Test side with gritty performances and quick scoring, his recent T20 exploits signal he's ready to translate that form to the franchise stage.
Sarfaraz Khan IPL Career
Sarfaraz made headlines in 2015 when Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) bought him, making him the youngest player to feature in an IPL match at just 17. His career has seen stints with Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals, but inconsistent opportunities have limited his impact.
Stats
Matches: 50
Runs: 585
Average: 22.50
Highest Score: 67
Strike Rate: 130.59
4s: 63
6s: 14
Sarfaraz Khan IPL 2026 Auction Slot
Sarfaraz Khan is placed at no. 4 in the IPL 2026 auction list. The Indian player belongs to the 1st Set in the category of Capped Batter 1.
What is the Base Price of Sarfaraz Khan in IPL 2026 Auction?
Sarfaraz Khan has a base price of Rs 75 lakh in the IPL mini auction.
When will Sarfaraz Khan arrive in the IPL Auction 2026?
Being slotted in the first set of the IPL auction 2026, Sarfaraz Khan is set to arrive early in the mini auction. The India batter can be one of the first six names in the auction. Hence, the timing can be about 2:30 PM to 3:15 PM.
Disclaimer: The timeline of a player's arrival at the auction table is based on assumptions related to IPL auction and the player's position in the shortlist. The aforementioned time can change as per auction dynamics.
