Australia’s Matthew Short has quietly but convincingly transformed from a Big Bash League (BBL) hopeful into a cornerstone of Australia’s new-look white-ball setup. Since the retirement of David Warner after the 2024 T20 World Cup, Short has established himself in the top order alongside Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head, bringing balance and aggression to a reshaped Australian batting lineup.
His recent performance, a gritty 74 off 78 balls in the second ODI against India at Adelaide Oval on October 23, underlined his growing maturity. That innings guided Australia to a tense two-wicket win, sealing the series with a match to spare. More than just a victory, it was a statement: Short’s evolution as both a dependable batter and a handy off-spinner has made him one of the most intriguing names ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction.
Although his earlier stint with the Punjab Kings and modest T20I returns in India didn’t turn heads, Short’s steady improvement, especially in playing spin and handling pressure has dramatically elevated his market value. Let’s look at three IPL franchises that could strongly benefit from securing his services.
Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
The Chennai Super Kings are expected to be active in the upcoming auction, particularly as they search for a reliable overseas top-order batter. With Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra struggling for consistency, CSK could see Short as an ideal reinforcement who offers both power and control.
He would slot seamlessly around Ruturaj Gaikwad and Aayush Mhatre, anchoring the innings when required while also providing a dynamic start. CSK’s recent domestic signings – Rahul Tripathi, Deepak Hooda, and Vijay Shankar failed to deliver, leaving a notable gap that Short could fill.
Short’s part-time off-spin adds further value, especially in the post-Ravichandran Ashwin era. While the Impact Player rule may reduce his bowling opportunities, his improved numbers against spin are particularly encouraging for Chepauk’s turning tracks, his strike rate versus spin leapt from 127.26 to 157.69 in 2025. Pairing him with Dewald Brevis and Shivam Dube would give CSK one of the most spin-savvy middle orders in the league.
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Rajasthan Royals (RR)
The Rajasthan Royals face several key questions heading into the auction, notably around Sanju Samson’s future and their unsettled middle order. With Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Suryavanshi cemented as their left-handed opening pair, the No.3 position lacks a right-handed stabilizer, especially if Samson moves on.
Both Nitish Rana and Riyan Parag struggled to make an impact in that role last season. Short, however, fits perfectly at No.3, a position that aligns with his natural game tempo. His presence would free up Parag and Dhruv Jurel to operate more effectively at No.4 and No.5, while allowing RR to retain Rana as a depth option.
Short’s adaptable strokeplay and calmness under pressure make him an excellent candidate to bridge the gap between RR’s aggressive openers and their explosive finishers.
Delhi Capitals (DC)
For the Delhi Capitals, the upcoming season is about redefining their batting identity. Faf du Plessis’ longevity remains uncertain, Jake Fraser-McGurk endured a disappointing campaign, and KL Rahul continues to juggle between roles. Amidst this uncertainty, Short offers what DC sorely need, a flexible, composed top-order batter who can adapt to various match situations.
Beyond his batting, his off-spin adds depth to a bowling unit that lacks a specialist off-spinner, unless Tristan Stubbs is forced into a secondary bowling role. Short’s ability to challenge left-handers provides tactical balance, giving DC’s think tank valuable options in matchups and team combinations.
A Rising All-Round Commodity
Matthew Short’s trajectory over the past two years is a testament to hard work and adaptability. From being an exciting domestic prospect to becoming an international regular, his stock has risen sharply and IPL teams are taking notice.
With a blend of power, technique, and utility bowling, Short represents the modern T20 archetype every franchise desires: a multi-dimensional cricketer who can win games in multiple ways. As the IPL 2026 mini-auction approaches, expect a fierce bidding war for one of Australia’s most complete and in-form white-ball talents.
Also Read: IPL 2026 Auction: 3 Teams Likely to Target Australia’s Rising Star Cooper Connolly For Next Season
