The mini auction for IPL 2026 is set to be held in Abu Dhabi, and excitement is already building around which players could attract big-money bids. Ahead of the official auction, Star Sports organised a mock auction featuring several former Indian cricketers, giving fans a glimpse of how the bidding wars might unfold. In this mock exercise, Australian all-rounder Cameron Green emerged as the most expensive buy, while Sarfaraz Khan also drew strong interest.

Cameron Green fetches a massive price
In the Star Sports mock auction, Cameron Green was snapped up by Kolkata Knight Riders for a staggering ₹30.5 crore. Former India batter Robin Uthappa represented KKR during the bidding and went all the way to secure the Australian all-rounder at this huge price. Green’s ability to contribute with both bat and ball has made him one of the most in-demand players ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, and many believe he could become the costliest player of the season.

CSK shows faith in Sarfaraz Khan
Indian middle-order batter Sarfaraz Khan was picked by Chennai Super Kings in the mock auction for ₹7 crore. Former CSK star Suresh Raina represented the franchise during the bidding. Sarfaraz, who last played in the IPL in 2021, has been in impressive form in domestic cricket, and this mock auction suggests that teams may be ready to invest in him again. Whether CSK actually pursues him in the real auction remains to be seen.

Big money for Liam Livingstone as well
England all-rounder Liam Livingstone also attracted a hefty bid in the mock auction. He was bought for ₹19 crore by the Lucknow franchise, with Irfan Pathan handling the bidding duties. Livingstone’s reputation as a powerful hitter, along with his ability to bowl both off-spin and leg-spin, makes him a valuable T20 asset. He was part of Royal Challengers Bengaluru last season.