After being released by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), many assumed that he would not be sold in the next season’s auction. However, his recent performances have completely changed that perception. He played a blazing 106-run innings in the third ODI against India. In addition, he scored impressive innings of 63, 123*, and 53 runs in three ODIs against Pakistan.

This year’s auction will not only feature familiar players but also some new Sri Lankan cricketers. Travin Mathew, Binura Fernando, Kushal Perera, and Dunith Wellalage will be part of the list. Additionally, Australia’s all-rounder Cameron Green is expected to be in List 1 and could become the most expensive player in the auction.

The BCCI stated in a mail, “The auction will be held with 350 players and will begin at 1 PM UAE time (2:30 PM IST) on Tuesday, December 16, at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi.”

From a team finance perspective, KKR is entering the auction with the largest budget. They have ₹64.30 crore to fill 13 vacant spots. Meanwhile, 2023 champions Chennai Super Kings have a budget of ₹43.4 crore and are aiming to fine-tune their squad in the auction.

So, the IPL 2026 auction promises to be thrilling once again, setting the stage for new stories and big surprises for cricket fans.

সিরিজ বাঁচানোর লড়াইয়ে আক্রমণাত্মক ভারত পেল সহজ টার্গেট

India’s bowling attack was effective from the start. The decision of captain KL Rahul, who won the toss and chose to field, proved correct. Arshdeep Singh dismissed Ryan Rickelton in the very first over. The opening partnership between South Africa’s Quinton de Kock and Temba Bavuma came to an end at 113 runs. After Bavuma was dismissed for 48 by Ravindra Jadeja, the team had to rebuild the innings.

The major turning point of the match came in the last ball of the 33rd over. After scoring a century, de Kock misjudged a perfect delivery from Prasidh Krishna and was bowled. From that point, South Africa’s scoring rate slowed significantly. The lower-middle order failed to accelerate, with only Dewald Brevis scoring 29 runs off 29 balls.

Kuldeep Yadav’s bowling figures were impressive—4 wickets for just 41 runs in 10 overs. Prasidh Krishna also took 4 wickets. With this excellent bowling performance, Indian bowlers took complete control of the match.

After South Africa’s innings of 270, India needs 271 runs to win. This match is crucial for India in their fight to save the series. The team’s excitement was evident, especially after winning the toss, with bowling coach Morne Morkel congratulating Rahul.

South Africa are all out for 2⃣7⃣0⃣ in Vizag

Prasidh Krishna with the final wicket of the innings

He finishes with a four-wicket haul

Scorecard https://t.co/HM6zm9o7bm#TeamIndia | #INDvSA | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/5mays2y5uS

— BCCI (@BCCI) December 6, 2025

In this Visakhapatnam match, the aggressive mindset of Indian bowlers and the magic of Chinaman spin seem to have brought a new twist to the series.