Cricket enthusiasts are in for a treat as Quinton de Kock, the former South African wicketkeeper-batsman, has been unexpectedly added to the IPL 2026 auction. The BCCI has confirmed a final list of 350 players for the auction, which is set to be held at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on 16 December, commencing at 1 PM local time.
The process began with a preliminary list of 1,355 players sent to all IPL franchises. Teams were asked to suggest players they wished to see in the auction. Based on feedback, 35 new names were included, with De Kock emerging as the standout surprise.
At 33, De Kock has recently retired from international cricket but remains in excellent form, having scored a century against India in Visakhapatnam. His inclusion, recommended by one of the franchises, sees him entering the auction at a base price of INR 1 crore—a 50% reduction from his previous valuation of INR 2 crore. His last IPL season saw him released by Kolkata Knight Riders due to underwhelming performances.
The final auction list also features several promising Sri Lankan players, including Travin Mathew, Binura Fernando, Kusal Perera, and Dunith Wellalage, alongside international additions from England, South Africa, Afghanistan, and the West Indies.
The BCCI has clarified the auction format: capped players will be sold first in category-specific rounds, followed by uncapped players. This approach ensures franchises have a structured way to bid for both experienced internationals and emerging domestic talent.
The Indian contingent added to the auction list is equally impressive, featuring talents like Sadek Hussain, Vishnu Solanki, Sabir Khan, Brijesh Sharma, Kanishk Chauhan, Aaron George, Jikku Bright, Shrihari Nair, Madhav Bajaj, and many others. These additions reflect the BCCI’s ongoing commitment to nurturing homegrown talent alongside attracting marquee international players.
The IPL 2026 auction is poised to be a thrilling affair, with De Kock’s sudden inclusion setting the stage for strategic manoeuvres, unexpected bidding wars, and high drama as franchises look to strengthen their squads for the upcoming season.