Australian star all-rounder Cameron Green created history at the IPL 2026 mini auction, becoming the most expensive foreign player ever sold in the Indian Premier League. The blockbuster moment unfolded at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, where the 26-year-old attracted an intense bidding war before being snapped up by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for a staggering ₹25.20 crore.

Green had entered the auction with a base price of ₹2 crore, but his value skyrocketed within minutes as franchises competed aggressively for his services. In the final stages, it was a fierce contest between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and KKR, with the defending champions ultimately backing out, allowing Kolkata to seal the deal.

Record-Breaking Auction Moment

With this signing, Cameron Green has now surpassed all previous overseas players to become the highest-priced foreign cricketer in IPL history. His combination of power-hitting, reliable seam bowling, and athletic fielding made him one of the most sought-after names in the auction pool.

KKR’s decision to invest heavily in Green underlines their strategy of building a strong core of multi-dimensional players ahead of IPL 2026. Team management believes Green’s presence will add balance to both the batting and bowling departments, especially in pressure situations.

How Much Will Cameron Green Actually Earn?

Although Green was sold for ₹25.20 crore, he will receive ₹18 crore as salary. As per IPL regulations, ₹18 crore is the maximum amount an overseas player can earn in a single season. The remaining ₹7.20 crore will be transferred to the BCCI Welfare Fund, which supports retired cricketers and grassroots development programs.

This rule ensures parity in earnings while also contributing to the broader welfare of Indian cricket.

Cameron Green’s IPL Journey So Far

Cameron Green made his IPL debut in 2023 with Mumbai Indians, where he impressed fans and experts with his all-round performances. Across 29 IPL matches, Green has scored 707 runs, including one century and two half-centuries. With the ball, he has picked up 16 wickets, proving his effectiveness as a genuine pace-bowling all-rounder.

After representing Mumbai Indians, Green also turned out for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, further strengthening his reputation as a dependable performer in the league. However, he missed the IPL 2025 season due to injury, which kept him away from competitive cricket for a period.

Despite the injury setback, franchises showed immense faith in his ability, fitness recovery, and long-term value—reflected clearly in the bidding frenzy at the 2026 auction.

A Look at Cameron Green’s International Career

Beyond the IPL, Cameron Green has established himself as a key figure in Australian international cricket. So far, he has represented Australia in:

• 34 Test matches, scoring 1,634 runs and taking 36 wickets

• 31 One Day Internationals, with 782 runs and 20 wickets

• 21 T20 Internationals, where he has amassed 521 runs and claimed 12 wickets

His performances in Test cricket, in particular, have earned him praise for his temperament and ability to contribute in challenging conditions.

Why KKR Bet Big on Green

For Kolkata Knight Riders, Green is more than just a marquee signing. His ability to bat in the top order or middle order, deliver crucial overs, and field brilliantly makes him a long-term asset. With IPL teams increasingly prioritising versatility, Green fits perfectly into modern T20 strategy.

Cricket analysts believe that if he stays fit, Cameron Green could become one of the cornerstones of KKR’s campaign in IPL 2026 and beyond.

A Defining Moment of IPL 2026 Auction

Cameron Green’s record-breaking purchase has become one of the biggest talking points of the IPL 2026 mini auction. It reflects both his rising stature in world cricket and the evolving dynamics of IPL auctions, where elite all-rounders command premium prices.

As fans eagerly await the new season, all eyes will be on Cameron Green to see whether he can justify his historic price tag and deliver match-winning performances in KKR colours.