The upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) mini-auction is scheduled to be held on December 16 at the Etihad Arena in the United Arab Emirates. On November 15, teams announced their list of retentions and releases.
While franchises like Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings released several players after a disappointing campaign in IPL 2025, Gujarat Titans and Punjab Kings were among those who retained the highest number of players after making the playoffs.
From the list of released players,
there are a lot of big hitters who could attract large bids at the IPL 2026 mini-auction. Andre Russell, Glenn Maxwell, Liam Livingstone, and Jake Fraser-McGurk are a few of the big hitters to watch out for at the event.
Let's take a look at three teams that may go all out for big hitters in the IPL 2026 mini-auction.
3 teams who might go all-out for big hitters:
3. Kolkata Knight Riders
KKR have the largest purse available to them at the IPL 2026 mini-auction. They are heading to Abu Dhabi with a staggering INR 64.3 crore. Having released their talismanic big-hitting all-rounder Andre Russell, KKR will either look to re-sign him or acquire the services of Cameron Green.
The three-time champions will also need to pick a wicketkeeper-batter, and that is where the likes of Finn Allen or Jamie Smith can fit in. Both of them are destructive batters who can change the complexion of the game at the top of the order. With their massive budget, KKR can be flexible with their plans and bolster their side significantly.
2. Sunrisers Hyderabad
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) have INR 25.5 crore budget heading into the auction. They are one team that follows the live-by-the-sword-die-by-it philosophy. Since head coach Daniel Vettori has joined forces with captain Pat Cummins, the team has played ultra-aggressive cricket, amassing 250-plus scores for fun.
There were reports of SRH releasing Heinrich Klaasen ahead of the auction, but he has been retained. However, with a decent budget in hand, the former champions would want to beef up their batting resources further.
They do not have too many experienced spinners in their line-up, and adding the likes of Liam Livingstone or Glenn Maxwell could be ideal. These two experienced cricketers can not only go big from ball one but also contribute with the ball.
1. Chennai Super Kings
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will have the second-highest purse in the IPL 2026 mini-auction. They have a healthy purse of INR 43.40 crore going into the auction. They underperformed in 2025, particularly in batting acceleration and explosive phases. Having released Sam Curran and Ravindra Jadeja, they will look to add some finishers in the line-up.
Andre Russell could be a fantastic addition to their setup. They could also go for Cameron Green, but KKR could outbid them with their massive purse. CSK have always leaned towards experienced players and proven match-winners. Russell could fit the bill seamlessly. Maxwell could also be a handy option, as he is a renowned spin hitter. Chepauk is known to be one of the kindest venues for spinners, and the Australian veteran's all-round skills could come in handy for the five-time champions.
