Sri Lanka's top-order batter, Pathum Nissanka, could be one of the hot picks in the IPL 2026 auction. Having made a memorable Test debut with a century, he has gone on to score over 2700 runs in ODIs and
more than 2200 runs in T20s. He recently scored a brilliant 107 against India in the Asia Cup 2025 and has been consistent at the top for Sri Lanka.
Despite his performance, Nissanka has never experienced playing in the IPL. He had set his base price at INR 75 lakh in the 2025 auction, but went unsold, something that might change after his recent form. With franchises constantly on the lookout for openers who can handle the pressure and the conditions, Nissanka could attract serious bids.
Here are the three teams that might target Pathum Nissanka in IPL 2026 auction:
3. Mumbai Indians
Mumbai Indians could consider Pathum Nissanka as a smart addition to their squad in the IPL 2026 auction. While Rohit Sharma and Ryan Rickelton are likely to be retained and take up the opening slots, Nissanka could provide firepower in the bench strength, something MI lacked in IPL 2025.
The Sri Lankan opener has been a reliable top-order batter with consistent performances in international cricket and could be a dependable option when required. The Sri Lankan can also be used as an impact player if required.
2. Chennai Super Kings
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) had a disappointing IPL 2025 campaign, finishing at the bottom of the table. One of the biggest letdowns was the lack of contributions from their overseas top-order batters. Devon Conway, despite having success in the past seasons, managed only 156 runs in six matches, while Rachin Ravindra struggled to convert his form into IPL, averaging just 27.28 across eight games.
With both batters failing to provide the stability and firepower, CSK could be on the lookout for a reliable opener in the 2026 auction. Pathum Nissanka could be an ideal option who can anchor innings and play at higher strike rates. Notably, CSK has a history of backing Sri Lankan talent, having previously invested in players like Muttiah Muralitharan, Nuwan Kulasekara, Suraj Randiv, and more recently, Matheesha Pathirana and Maheesh Theekshana.
1. Kolkata Knight Riders
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)may head into the IPL 2026 auction with some calls around their opening options. Both Quinton de Kock and Rahmanullah Gurbaz underperformed in IPL 2025, which has raised questions about their retention. De Kock, bought for INR 3.6 crore, managed only 152 runs in eight matches, while Gurbaz fared no better with 74 runs across five innings. Their poor results, along with struggles in international cricket, could lead KKR to release one or both to free up an overseas slot.
In this scenario, Pathum Nissanka could emerge as a strong option. In KKR's victorious 2024 season, the team had a strong opening duo in terms of Sunil Narine and Phil Salt, who scored the bulk of runs and gave solid starts consistently. For the 2026 season, the team will have a similar approach, which could open the door for the Sri Lankan.
