Post by : Maya Rahman

Australia's all-rounder Cameron Green has officially become the most expensive overseas signing in IPL history. The Kolkata Knight Riders secured his services for a staggering ₹25.2 crore (£2.1m) in the 2026 auction, amidst intense bidding from both Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings.

This remarkable price surpasses the previous record held by KKR for Mitchell Starc, who was sold for ₹24.75 crore in 2024. Green now ranks as the third most expensive player overall in the IPL, following India's Rishabh Pant (₹27 crore) and Shreyas Iyer (₹26.75 crore) from 2025.

At just 26 years old, Green has showcased his talents with Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, amassing 707 runs at a strike rate exceeding 150 and notching up 16 wickets over 29 IPL matches. Although primarily listed as a batter, he will take on the role of an all-rounder during this tournament, mirroring his current performance for Australia in the ongoing Ashes series.

In other auction highlights, England's Ben Duckett will debut in the IPL, joining Delhi Capitals for ₹2 crore (£167,000). Noteworthy signings also include Liam Livingstone, who was acquired by Sunrisers Hyderabad for ₹13 crore (£1.085m), while Tom Banton and Luke Wood will play for Gujarat Titans. Matheesha Pathirana has signed with KKR for ₹18 crore (£1.5m).

Chennai Super Kings have also invested in uncapped Indian players Kartik Sharma and Prashant Veer for ₹14.2 crore (£1.185m). This auction saw prominent international stars like Australia’s Steve Smith and England’s Jonny Bairstow go unsold in early rounds.

The IPL 2026 auction has once again underscored the escalating demand for overseas all-rounders and standout Indian talents, with Green's record-breaking signing setting an exciting precedent for the upcoming season.

#Global News