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As the countdown to the IPL 2026 mini-auction begins, anticipation is steadily building among fans and franchises alike. With teams preparing to refine their squads ahead of the new season, the focus has shifted towards identifying game-changing talents who could attract significant bids. The upcoming auction is expected to feature intense competition, strategic planning and high-value signings as franchises look to strengthen their cores for the next phase of the tournament. Regarding the same, former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has made a bold prediction in context of who can emerge as the most expensive player in the upcoming auction.
Aakash Chopra shares his prediction regarding the most expensive player in IPL 2026 auction
Chopra, known for his analytical insights and accurate auction forecasts, shared his view on social media, stating that star Australian all-rounder Cameron Green has the potential to become the most expensive signing of the upcoming mini-auction. Green’s ability to influence matches with both bat and ball has made him one of the most coveted modern-day all-rounders. Chopra’s suggestion could also be seen in such a way that teams looking for a genuine match-winner would not hesitate to spend big once again, especially with the all-rounder expected to be available in top form.
“Cameron Green—the most expensive buy at the auction,” Chopra wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
Cameron Green—the most expensive buy at the auction 🤘
— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash)
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A history of high demand in the IPL
This isn’t the first time Green has been projected as a blockbuster buy. At the IPL 2023 auction, the Australian all-rounder became the centre of attention, igniting a massive bidding war among Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Mumbai Indians (MI) and Delhi Capitals (DC). His rare combination of power-hitting and seam-bowling made him an irresistible prospect for multiple franchises.
Eventually, Mumbai Indians secured his services for a staggering ₹17.5 crore, making him the second-most expensive signing in IPL history at that time. Green repaid MI’s faith with impactful performances, proving his value as both a top-order batter and a handy bowler capable of delivering key breakthroughs.
Auction dynamics ahead of IPL 2026
With teams preparing to fine-tune their squads ahead of IPL 2026 auction, the availability of a premier all-rounder like Green is likely to spark immediate interest.
Given his proven IPL record and versatility, multiple franchises are expected to join the bidding race. Teams lacking a strong middle-order hitter or a reliable sixth-bowling option may see Green as the missing piece in their setup.
Since his debut in the tournament, Green has played 29 matches, scoring 707 runs at an impressive average of 41.59. His tally includes one century and two half-centuries, along with 62 fours and 32 sixes—highlighting his ability to clear boundaries with ease.
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