The IPL auction, set to take place on December 16 in Abu Dhabi, is generating considerable buzz, particularly around Australian all-rounder Cameron Green. With 350 players under the hammer and only 77 squad spots to fill, the stakes are high, and Green is widely considered a front-runner to be among the most expensive buys.
Green has placed himself in the ₹2 crore base price group, alongside other notable players like Ravi Bishnoi, Venkatesh Iyer, and Matheesha Pathirana. However, Green's decision to register himself as a batter has been viewed as a strategic masterstroke. By entering the auction early, he maximizes his visibility and unlocks a higher bidding potential.
Several factors contribute to the complex math surrounding Green's value. He is a tall, versatile player who can bat in the top order, hit long balls, and bowl seam-up deliveries in the middle overs, also having the ability to bowl with the new ball. This makes him an attractive prospect for teams seeking a dynamic all-rounder.
Several teams need a wrist spinner, and Ravi Bishnoi is one of the best known bowlers released for bidding. Top order batters will also invite interest and Quinton de Kock, with his dual skill sets will be trying his luck. Fast bowlers will again be in demand and Matheesa Pathirana could find many takers.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have significant spending power, holding the largest purses at ₹64.30 crore and ₹43.40 crore respectively. KKR, in particular, could aggressively pursue Green, especially after Andre Russell's recent IPL retirement. Green's versatility makes him a valuable asset, as he can bat anywhere in the order, contribute with the ball, and make an impact in the field.
However, the "overseas price cap rule" adds a layer of complexity. This rule, implemented to prevent overseas players from exploiting the demand-supply imbalance, limits the on-paper salary an overseas player can receive, regardless of the bidding amount. The maximum salary will be either the highest auction salary from the last mega auction (₹27 crore) or the highest retention price (₹18 crore), whichever is lower.
Despite this cap, Green's potential remains high. With 31 vacant overseas slots to be filled, and Green's all-round capabilities, he is expected to spark a bidding war. Even with the salary limitations, franchises are willing to invest in players who can provide multiple dimensions to their team.
Ultimately, the "complex math" surrounding Cameron Green involves balancing his skillset, the needs of various franchises, the auction dynamics, and the constraints of the overseas price cap. His performance in the IPL 2026 auction will be a key indicator of how teams are adapting to these factors and prioritizing their strategies for the upcoming season.
