Australian all‑rounder Cameron Green became the biggest talking point ahead of the upcoming IPL 2026 auction after he fetched a staggering ₹30.5 crore in a high‑profile mock auction simulation. Conducted on the eve of the real event, the exercise offered a glimpse into how franchises might strategize, and Green emerged as the most expensive pick, with Kolkata Knight Riders securing him after an intense bidding battle. His placement in the highest base‑price bracket and his reputation as a dynamic middle‑order all‑rounder added to the buzz surrounding his name.
The mock auction, organised as a strategic drill by experts and analysts, aimed to mirror real‑world decision‑making. Green’s acquisition by KKR highlighted the franchise’s aggressive approach to strengthening its core, especially after his absence from the 2025 season due to injury. Analysts noted that Chennai Super Kings were also expected to pursue him heavily, given their need for a versatile all‑rounder, but KKR ultimately outbid them in the simulationThe Hans India.
This mock bidding exercise also shed light on broader auction trends. With 369 players shortlisted from a massive pool of 1,390 registrations, the competition for top‑tier talent is expected to be fierce. Green’s valuation crossing the ₹30‑crore mark in the simulation signals that franchises may be willing to push financial boundaries for proven match‑winners. Other players like Matheesha Pathirana and Liam Livingstone also attracted significant mock bids, indicating a strong market for impactful overseas performersFirstpost.
While the mock auction does not guarantee identical outcomes in the real event, it offers valuable insight into franchise priorities and potential bidding wars. Green’s towering mock price underscores his rising stature in world cricket and the high expectations surrounding him as the actual IPL 2026 auction approaches. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see whether this simulated frenzy translates into real‑world drama when the hammer finally comes down.
