The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini-auction is just around the corner and is expected to take place in about 45 days. With teams gearing up to strengthen their squads, franchises will be on the lookout
for impactful players who can offer balance with both bat and ball.
In modern T20 cricket, the role of an all-rounder is invaluable, someone who can contribute in multiple departments and change the course of a game. As the auction nears, let us look at five all-rounders who could attract strong bids from franchises ahead of IPL 2026.
Here are top five all-rounders teams will target in IPL 2026 auction
Michael Bracewell (New Zealand)
New Zealand’s all-rounder Michael Bracewell is likely to be one of the top names on the radar of several IPL teams. He is known for his versatility, and offers a rare combination of solid batting, crafty off-spin, and even wicketkeeping ability when needed.
He featured for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in IPL 2023, when he played five matches, scoring 58 runs and taking six wickets. Since then, he has continued to develop as a reliable performer for New Zealand in T20Is, with 417 runs and 33 wickets in 42 games. His ability to adapt to different roles and perform under pressure makes him a valuable asset. With his growing reputation in global franchise leagues, Bracewell could be a sought-after name in the 2026 mini-auction.
Sikandar Raza (Zimbabwe)
Veteran Zimbabwe all-rounder Sikandar Raza has become one of the most consistent performers in T20 cricket. After making an impression in IPL 2023 and 2024 with Punjab Kings (PBKS), scoring 182 runs and taking three wickets, Raza has continued to shine on the international stage.
Leading Zimbabwe from the front, Raza’s record, 2742 runs and 99 wickets in 123 T20Is, highlights his immense value. He brings experience and the ability to turn games with both bat and ball. His off-spin and aggressive batting in the middle order make him a reliable match-winner. Teams looking for balance and experience are likely to consider Raza a major target in IPL 2026.
Matthew Short (Australia)
Australian all-rounder Matthew Short could be another exciting overseas option at the mini-auction. Having played for Punjab Kings (PBKS) in IPL 2023, where he scored 117 runs, Short has since enhanced his reputation through consistent performances in domestic and franchise leagues.
He has become a regular in Australia’s T20I setup, contributing 357 runs and eight wickets in 19 matches. Short’s aggressive stroke play at the top of the order and his handy off-spin make him a valuable T20 package. His versatility, being able to open or play in the middle order, adds to his appeal for IPL teams seeking dynamic all-rounders.
Saransh Jain (India)
Among the Indian domestic talents, Saransh Jain from Madhya Pradesh stands out as a promising all-rounder. His performances in domestic cricket, particularly in the Ranji Trophy 2025–26, have caught attention scoring a century and taking seven wickets in just two matches.
Jain’s ability to bowl tight spells and contribute vital runs in the lower order makes him an exciting prospect. With franchises increasingly backing Indian talents who can provide balance and depth, he could emerge as one of the surprise picks of the IPL 2026 mini-auction.
Jason Holder (West Indies)
West Indies’ seasoned all-rounder Jason Holder brings a wealth of experience to any team he represents. Having played for five different IPL franchises, Holder has taken 53 wickets and scored 259 runs in 46 IPL matches.
Internationally, his numbers are equally impressive, with 94 wickets and 702 runs in 81 T20Is. Holder’s ability to deliver with both bat and ball, coupled with his leadership experience, makes him a valuable addition to any squad. Teams looking for a reliable middle-order hitter and a death-overs specialist will undoubtedly have their eyes on him.
