RCB’s first task will be to find a replacement for Lungi Ngidi. There will be various options available—new-ball bowlers as well as death-over specialists.

While Sri Lankan yorker specialist Matheesha Pathirana may be expensive, other alternatives such as Reece Topley, Matt Henry, Gerald Coetzee, and Spencer Johnson are likely to be on RCB’s radar.

Possible Overseas Pace Targets

Matheesha Pathirana

Gerald Coetzee

Anrich Nortje

Reece Topley

Spencer Johnson

Matt Henry

If RCB manage to grab any of these pacers at a reasonable price, their bowling backup will be significantly strengthened.

Kohli–Faf Want a Stronger Allrounder Unit

RCB have already released Liam Livingstone. Though there’s still a chance to buy him back, cheaper alternatives like Moeen Ali, Glenn Maxwell, Wanindu Hasaranga, or Aaron Hardie may also be available in the auction.
With two overseas slots open, the team must choose wisely.

Among Indian allrounders, RCB could target:

Rajvardhan Hangargekar

Atharva Taide

Mahipal Lomror

Need for a Backup Top-Order Batter

RCB’s first-choice backup top-order option was Venkatesh Iyer, but acquiring him will be tough.

Thus, the franchise is likely to look at players like:

Prithvi Shaw

Sheikh Rasheed

Wicketkeeping Department

With Tim Seifert released, RCB need a backup wicketkeeper. Since no overseas slots are free for this category, they will target Indians.

Possible options:

Luvnith Sisodia

Bansh Bedi

Most Popular Indian Bowling Targets

Among Indian pacers, the most sought-after names are expected to be:

Simarjeet Singh

Kamlesh Nagarkoti

Chetan Sakariya

Akash Madhwal

Among spinners:

Rahul Chahar

Karn Sharma

Kumar Kartikeya

RCB might be able to sign a few of them without breaking the bank.

RCB’s Probable 8 Targets for IPL 2026 Auction
Overseas Fast Bowlers

Reece Topley

Matt Henry

Gerald Coetzee

Overseas Allrounders

Wanindu Hasaranga

Moeen Ali

Indian Allrounders / Bowlers

Mahipal Lomror (Indian spin allrounder)

Rajvardhan Hangargekar (Indian pace allrounder)

Simarjeet Singh (Indian fast bowler)

Rahul Chahar (Indian leg-spinner)

Batting & Wicketkeeping

Prithvi Shaw (Top-order batter)

Luvnith Sisodia (Indian wicketkeeper)

The core of the champion squad is already set so RCB will prioritize picking the right “squad players” rather than big superstars.
How the Patidar–Kohli-led unit uses their ₹16.40 crore purse will be interesting to watch.

Lucknow Super Giants did not retain him, so Miller has entered his name in this year’s auction pool. At this moment, former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra mentioned on his YouTube channel that multiple teams might go after Miller.

Aakash Chopra said, “This is a very important series for David Miller. Even though Lucknow released him, he is still a quality cricketer. In today’s IPL, almost every team needs a finisher who can bat at No. 6 or 7. From Chennai Super Kings to Kolkata Knight Riders.”

He added, “Delhi Capitals, Rajasthan Royals, and even Miller’s old team Gujarat Titans will be looking for a backup overseas batter. So there is a very high chance that Miller will be sold for a big price.”

A total of 1,390 players registered for the IPL 2026 auction. From that list, 350 players have been shortlisted—240 Indians and 110 overseas players. Across the 10 franchises, 77 slots are still open, including 31 spots reserved exclusively for overseas players. Naturally, the demand for established finishers like Miller is sky-high.

David Miller’s recent form and vast experience have made him one of the major attractions in the auction. As Chopra suggested, several teams are keeping an eye on him. If CSK, KKR, Delhi, Rajasthan, or even Gujarat decide to bid for him, it would come as no surprise.

Where Does RCB Need Strengthening?

1. Overseas Strike Pacer (Top Priority)

Despite having Josh Hazlewood and Nuwan Thushara in their pace attack, both have limitations—Hazlewood’s workload management and Thushara’s lack of experience. This makes a world-class overseas strike pacer RCB’s biggest requirement.

The best-suited option is Anrich Nortje (released by DC). His 145+ km/h pace and aggressive bowling make him deadly on Bengaluru’s batting-friendly pitches.
Another strong choice is Gerald Coetzee (released by GT), who can serve as a long-term backup for Hazlewood.
To strengthen death bowling, RCB may also consider bringing back Mustafizur Rahman.

2. Indian Middle-Order / Finisher (Domestic Balance)

Despite a stable top order, RCB need a strong Indian middle-order batter capable of playing spin and finishing games—especially since their overseas slots are limited.

The premium option is Venkatesh Iyer (released by KKR). A left-handed power-hitter who can bat at No. 3 or No. 4 and contribute with part-time pace.
A more realistic and budget-friendly option is Mahipal Lomror, whom RCB may consider bringing back. He is a left-handed batter who can also bowl useful leg-spin.
RCB may also take a bold call by targeting Prithvi Shaw.

3. Wicket-Taking Spin Option

Even with Krunal Pandya and Suyash Sharma retained, RCB lack a high-impact, wicket-taking specialist spinner—the missing link in their bowling lineup.

The top target in this category is Ravi Bishnoi (released by LSG), known for his consistent strike ability in the middle overs.
A reunion with Wanindu Hasaranga is also a realistic possibility.

4. Overseas All-Rounder (Livingstone’s Replacement)

With Liam Livingstone released, the franchise needs a versatile overseas all-rounder. The ideal option is Michael Bracewell (released by DC), who offers left-handed batting in the middle order along with economical off-spin—perfect for squad balance.

RCB are not looking for dramatic changes; instead, they aim to sharpen their championship squad by filling specific gaps with the right players. Their strategy for the IPL 2026 mini-auction is calculated, not aggressive. Now it remains to be seen whether this structured approach helps them achieve repeated success in the upcoming season.

With a remaining purse of ₹43.40 crore, the Super Kings are expected to take an aggressive approach, focusing on strengthening their batting, all-round abilities, spin department, and death bowling.

1. Overseas Finisher & Power All-Rounder – Top Priority

The exits of Jadeja and Curran have left a major void in the middle and lower-middle order. CSK urgently needs a powerful overseas finisher or an all-rounder capable of handling multiple roles.

Liam Livingstone (Released by RCB)
A destructive hitter who also offers useful leg-spin and off-spin—perfect for filling two roles at once.

David Miller (Released by LSG)
One of the most reliable death-overs finishers in the IPL with calmness and experience.

Cameron Green (Released by RCB)
Expected to be one of the most expensive buys, but his long-term value as a fast-bowling all-rounder makes him an attractive option.

2. Frontline Indian Spinner – Crucial for Chepauk

With the Jadeja–Ashwin era ending, CSK’s spin department looks thin. On the spin-friendly Chepauk pitch, a top-quality Indian spinner is indispensable.

Ravi Bishnoi (Released by LSG)
A consistent wicket-taking leg-spinner with the ability to win matches.

Rahul Chahar (Released by SRH)
Experienced, dependable, and proven in the T20 format.

3. Overseas Fast Bowler – Death Overs Specialist

After releasing Matheesha Pathirana, CSK’s death-overs bowling has become uncertain. Their primary strategy will be to re-buy Pathirana at a lower price.
If that doesn’t work:

Gerald Coetzee (Released by GT)
A fiery, aggressive pacer capable of taking wickets with raw pace.

Anrich Nortje (Released by DC)
A seasoned international fast bowler known for his express speed.

4. Indian Batting & All-Round Depth

To strengthen domestic batting depth and add flexibility, CSK may target:

Venkatesh Iyer (Released by KKR)
Can bat anywhere from opening to middle order, plus useful medium pace.

Prithvi Shaw (Released by DC)
A fearless attacking opener who can also serve as a strong backup option.

Conclusion

The IPL 2026 Mega Auction is not just a talent hunt for CSK—it is the foundation for building their next era. With Sanju Samson already secured, the focus now shifts to strong all-rounders, quality spinners, and reliable death-bowling specialists. And with a hefty purse remaining, CSK might produce some major surprises on auction day.

KKR’s primary aim is to strengthen their squad after Andre Russell’s release by adding a powerful overseas hitter and a fast-bowling option. On the other hand, Chennai is mainly focused on rebuilding the team balance. They are looking for a player who can perform in the top order and also provide depth with medium-fast bowling.

Cameron Green fits both requirements perfectly. His all-round abilities and world-class performances have made him the “most valuable” target of the auction. With a base price of ₹2 crore, a fierce bidding war is expected for this pace-bowling all-rounder. Experts predict that his price could cross the ₹15 crore mark.

Cricket fans are buzzing with excitement. Who will win this auction battle—CSK or KKR? This December auction is surely set to be an electrifying battlefield.

This time, though, the story looks a bit different. Right before the auction, Mustafizur has been showcasing glimpses of his old magic in the ILT20, held in Saudi Arabia. Playing for the Delhi Capitals’ franchise team, he has taken four wickets in two matches and has become the centre of discussion for his exceptional dot-ball bowling.

In the opening match against the Gulf Giants, Mustafizur announced his return to rhythm — delivering four overs for just 26 runs and picking up two wickets. The highlight: 13 dot balls. In the next match, against Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, his cutters and variations looked even sharper. He took two wickets again, conceding 22 runs in three overs, along with 11 dot balls.

In total, across 42 balls bowled in two matches, 24 deliveries resulted in no runs — an outstanding statistic for any bowler in T20 cricket.

Beyond dot balls, another major strength of Mustafizur is his ability to bowl effectively in both the powerplay and death overs. His cutters, deceptive slower balls, and wicket-targeting lines all seem to have returned to their best. As a result, many believe several IPL franchises will be keeping a close eye on him.

However, one question still remains: Will he be allowed to play the full IPL season? Historically, the Bangladesh Cricket Board has scheduled international series during almost every IPL season. Additionally, players often receive NOCs only for limited periods. Because of this, franchises hesitate to invest in Bangladeshi players. If a similar situation arises this year, Mustafizur and Shakib could once again find themselves at a disadvantage.

The 2025 IPL season turned out to be a nightmare for KKR. Under the leadership of Ajinkya Rahane, the team lost several easy matches and ended the league stage in eighth place. For a three-time champion, such a season was extremely hard to digest. Determined not to repeat past mistakes, the management is now focused on strengthening the bowling department for IPL 2026.

1. Matheesha Pathirana – Released by CSK, Now on KKR’s Radar

According to sources, Sri Lankan pace sensation Matheesha Pathirana is one of KKR’s top targets. After not being retained by CSK, the young yorker specialist is expected to attract heavy bidding in the auction. His accuracy, raw pace, and deadly death-over bowling could bring a new dimension to the KKR pace attack.

2. Ravi Bishnoi – The Middle-Overs Wicket-Getter KKR Wants

Another name strongly linked to KKR is Indian leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi, who was surprisingly released from Sanjiv Goenka’s Lucknow franchise. Known for his consistent wicket-taking ability in the middle overs and deceptive googlies, Bishnoi is expected to be one of the hottest picks in the mini auction. KKR may even consider building their spin attack around him.

3. Reece Topley – The Left-Arm Pacer to Replace Spencer Johnson?

On November 15, KKR released left-arm pacer Spencer Johnson, creating a vacancy in the squad. To fill that gap, the franchise is eyeing England’s experienced all-rounder Reece Topley. Despite occasional injury concerns, Topley’s swing, bounce, and death-overs control make him an ideal fit for the team. His skill set could bring much-needed balance to KKR’s bowling lineup.

Ahead of the mini auction, speculation is growing around these three bowlers—Matheesha Pathirana, Ravi Bishnoi, and Reece Topley. Determined to bounce back after last season’s struggles, Shah Rukh Khan and Juhi Chawla’s franchise are gearing up to rebuild a stronger, more balanced KKR squad.

নিলামে সম্ভাব্য এই পাঁচ ক্রিকেটারকে টার্গেট করছে RCB!

1. Ravi Bishnoi

Suyash Sharma showed inconsistency last season, taking just eight wickets in 14 matches with a strike rate of 37 and an economy of 8.84. To boost their spin department, RCB could target Delhi spinner Ravi Bishnoi. Having claimed 72 T20 wickets in his career, Bishnoi can be a significant asset for the defending champions.

2. Mustafizur Rahman

RCB’s death bowling faced criticism in IPL 2025, conceding 11.19 runs on average with a dot ball percentage of just 31.4. Left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman could fill that gap with his ability to deceive batters using hit-the-deck deliveries and variations, making him an ideal option for RCB.

3. Michael Bracewell

After releasing Liam Livingstone, RCB has a vacancy for a batting all-rounder. New Zealand’s Michael Bracewell could fill this role. With 536 T20 runs and 23 wickets this year, his off-spin will also strengthen RCB’s spin options.

4. Wanindu Hasaranga

Suyash Sharma’s limited wicket-taking ability highlighted the need for stronger spin options. Sri Lankan spinner Wanindu Hasaranga, who has taken 40 T20 wickets this year, could be a key target. His late-order batting also helps maintain the team’s balance.

5. Alzarri Joseph

RCB recently released Lungi Ngidi and Blessing Muzarabani. To cover the fast-bowling gap, Alzarri Joseph could be the ideal overseas pace option. The West Indies pacer is known for his express pace and aggressive deliveries, adding a different dimension to RCB’s bowling attack.

These five players could play a crucial role in shaping RCB’s squad in the IPL 2026 auction. Strengthening and balancing the team will make this auction particularly important for the defending champions.

IPL থেকে অবসরের পরেই বিশ্বরেকর্ড গড়ে তালিকার শীর্ষে আন্দ্রে রাসেল

First Ever to Top All Three Lists in T20 Cricket

126 players have scored 5000 or more runs in T20 cricket.

Only 6 bowlers have taken 500 or more wickets.

Only 10 players have hit 500 or more sixes.

Andre Russell is the only cricketer who appears in all three lists.

On Friday, playing for Abu Dhabi Knight Riders against Desert Vipers in the ILT20, Russell picked up his 500th T20 wicket, creating history. He is now the first player in the world to achieve:

5000+ runs

500+ wickets

500+ sixes

in the T20 format. Historic Milestone in His 576th Match.

After 576 T20 matches, Russell’s career numbers now stand at:

Runs: 9,496

Wickets: 500

Sixes: 772

Earlier, Shakib Al Hasan and Dwayne Bravo had achieved the double milestone of 5000 runs and 500 wickets in T20s, but neither came close to Russell’s towering six-hitting record.

On Friday, coming in at No. 6, Russell scored 36 off 23 balls, including 3 fours and 2 sixes. However, his milestone knock wasn’t enough to secure victory. Abu Dhabi Knight Riders posted 171/6, but Desert Vipers chased it down in 19.3 overs, powered by Shimron Hetmyer’s destructive 48.

A New Role Ahead

After retiring from the IPL last Sunday, Russell will soon take up the role of assistant coach for KKR. However, he remains active in various franchise leagues—meaning many more milestones could still be waiting for him.

This rare T20 triple crown cements Andre Russell not just as one of the greatest all-rounders of his era, but as one of the greatest in the entire history of the T20 format.

Like most IPL teams, LSG will also keep a close eye on Sri Lanka’s young pace sensation Matheesha Pathirana. After four successful seasons with Chennai Super Kings, Pathirana has earned a reputation as one of the most lethal death-over bowlers in the IPL. He has taken 47 wickets in 32 matches so far and is known for his pinpoint yorkers. His death-over expertise could be a massive asset for LSG.

2. Mustafizur Rahman (Bangladesh)

Bangladesh’s “Cutter Master” Mustafizur Rahman is another strong overseas option for LSG. Currently the third-highest wicket-taker in T20Is, Mustafizur has previously represented SRH, MI, RR, CSK, and DC in the IPL. With his variations, experience, and proven ability in pressure situations, Mustafizur could significantly strengthen LSG’s death-over bowling.

3. Matt Henry (New Zealand)

New Zealand pacer Matt Henry is also expected to be on LSG’s radar. Over the past few years, Henry has been consistently impressive across all formats of international cricket. He played four matches for LSG in IPL 2024, and his ability to swing the new ball makes him a valuable powerplay bowler. His experience and control can add much-needed balance to LSG’s pace unit.

4. Gus Atkinson (England)

England’s rising fast bowler Gus Atkinson is another promising target for LSG. He has quickly established himself as a key pacer in England’s Test setup. Although he is yet to make his IPL debut, his pace, bounce, and lower-order batting ability make him an attractive option for the franchise. LSG might look to invest in him as a long-term asset.

5. Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka)

Among overseas all-rounders, Sri Lankan leg-spinner and former captain Wanindu Hasaranga stands out as a major potential target. Known for his match-winning spells in the middle overs and his quick-scoring ability with the bat, Hasaranga brings tremendous value to any T20 side. His all-round skills and experience make him a perfect fit for LSG’s strategy to control the middle phase of the innings.