Players switch roles for bigger IPL auction bids

• IPL mini-auction in Abu Dhabi; teams seek combos for IPL 2026 with limited slots.
• Green, Ravindra, Iyer, Livingstone, Mitchell may gain by listing as batters only.
• Role switch highlights power-hitting ability attracting higher bids in IPL auction.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) mini-auction will take place on December 16 in Abu Dhabi, with more than 300 players set to go under the hammer. With only

77 available slots across all franchises, teams will be focused on identifying the right combinations for IPL 2026. However, several players listed as all-rounders may not receive the kind of bids they expect because franchises often prioritise specialists, especially in a mini-auction with limited budget flexibility.

To maximise their chances of earning a higher paycheck, some players could consider switching their primary role given that their recent performances and value to teams have come largely in that particular role. Here are five such players who may benefit from a role change in the auction list.

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Here are five players who could switch roles to earn bigger bids in IPL 2026 mini-auction

Cameron Green

Australian all-rounder Cameron Green is expected to be one of the hottest picks at the mini-auction. Green has registered himself in the batter category at a base price of INR 2 crore, a move that aligns well with his recent performances and high demand. Having previously represented the Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Green has enough IPL experience to draw significant attention from franchises. With his power-hitting ability and adaptability in multiple batting roles, Green could command one of the biggest bids of the auction.

Rachin Ravindra

New Zealand all-rounder Rachin Ravindra has named himself under the all-rounder category with a base price of INR 2 crore, but his primary impact in T20 cricket has come as a top-order batter. During his stint with the Chennai Super Kings, Ravindra was largely used for his batting, especially in the powerplay. Given that teams are always in search of reliable left-handed batters, switching his designation to batter could help him attract greater interest and potentially a higher bid than he might receive as an all-rounder.

Venkatesh Iyer

Venkatesh Iyer, bought by Kolkata Knight Riders for INR 23.75 crore in IPL 2025 mega-auction, is another all-rounder who could benefit from being listed as a batter. Although he can bowl medium pace, KKR primarily used him as a top-order or middle-order batter. His ability to open the innings, stabilise the middle overs and accelerate when needed makes him a strong batting option. Rebranding himself as a specialist batter could increase his value in the eyes of teams seeking stability and versatility in their batting line-up.

Liam Livingstone

England’s Liam Livingstone has listed himself as an all-rounder but is predominantly valued for his explosive batting. He has featured for Royal Challengers Bengaluru and consistently delivered with the bat in franchise leagues worldwide. While Livingstone offers part-time spin, his biggest asset remains his power-hitting. Switching to the batter category could highlight this strength and lead to stronger bidding competition.

Daryl Mitchell

New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell is another player who could gain from being classified as a specialist batter. Although he provides a medium-pace option, his greatest contributions have come with the bat. During his stint with Chennai Super Kings, Mitchell produced several crucial knocks. His consistency and ability to play long innings make him more valuable as a batter than as a utility all-rounder.