The IPL auction has always been one of the most unpredictable events. Every year, players with years of experience and match-winning ability find themselves going for surprisingly low prices. Even those
who have been part of title-winning squads or delivered under pressure are not guaranteed big bids. Team combinations, changing strategies, new roles, and purse limitations often push these players into the bargain bracket.
Sometimes, franchises prioritise younger options, while at other times they simply look for specific skill sets. As a result, reliable names that have contributed consistently over the years may slip under the radar and become smart, low-cost acquisitions.
Here are 3 bargain buys to watch out for at auction
3. Faf du Plessis
Former South African skipper, Faf du Plessis, may be 41, but he is still one of the most celebrated T20 players. Last season, he was picked by the Delhi Capitals at his base price of INR 2 crore. However, an underwhelming IPL 2025, which included 202 runs in nine innings at a strike rate of 123.92, led to his release ahead of the upcoming mini-auction. The decision has opened the door for a new franchise to make a steal deal.
Given his age and recent dip in form, du Plessis is expected to come at a significantly cheaper price. Yet, teams looking for an experienced backup opener or a reliable top-order player will hope to acquire him. Like last year, he could once again become the smartest bargain of the auction.
2. Mohit Sharma
Once a frontline pacer in the IPL, Mohit Sharma could be picked at a relatively lower price. While his 2025 season with Delhi Capitals was underwhelming, with just two wickets in eight matches at an economy of 10.28, teams still value experienced Indian pacers who can be seen as reliable backup options. Over the past few years, Mohit has transitioned from being a frontline strike bowler to a dependable supporting seamer.
His decline in form in the past few years and the lack of domestic cricket could keep his price low, which is what could appeal to teams looking for affordable bench strength. Mohit’s season with the Gujarat Titans in 2023, when he bagged 27 wickets, has been the most memorable one in recent times.
1. Glenn Maxwell
Star Australian all-rounder, Glenn Maxwell, once a hot property at IPL auctions, could be a bargain buy in 2026. Maxwell's recent struggles with form, including just 100 runs across his last 15 IPL innings at a dismal average of 6.67. His 2025 campaign with the Punjab Kings saw him score just 48 runs in six innings at a strike rate below 98.
Despite these setbacks, Maxwell's numbers in IPL remain impressive, with 2819 runs at a strike rate of 155.15, plus valuable off-spin bowling. Teams like Chennai Super Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Gujarat Titans, searching for middle-order batters and spin-bowling options, might view Maxwell as a calculated risk. His likely reduced price point makes him an attractive pick for franchises willing to back his experience.
