With the IPL 2026 mini-auction just days away, the chatter around team strategies is getting louder and Irfan Pathan has added an interesting name to the mix. The former India all-rounder believes Kolkata Knight Riders could go all out for Australian star Cameron Green as they look to fill the massive void left by Andre Russell’s retirement.
All eyes on Mini Auction
The mini-auction, scheduled for December 16, has put franchises into full planning mode. Squads are being reassessed, balance sheets checked, and combinations reworked. Unsurprisingly, multi-skilled all-rounders are the hottest commodity this year, and Green sits right at the top of that list.
KKR’s quest for Cameron Green
According to Pathan, Green could be a near “like-for-like” option for KKR. While he may operate slightly higher up the batting order than Russell did, his ability to influence games with both bat and ball makes him a tempting prospect. Pathan feels Green’s athleticism, power-hitting, and seam-bowling ability align well with what KKR have traditionally valued in overseas players.
However, KKR won’t have it easy. Pathan expects franchises like Chennai Super Kings to also enter the race for Green. CSK, known for backing reliable all-rounders, could see Green as a long-term investment who fits their calm, process-driven approach.
Pathan also named Mitchell’s name
Pathan also took time to highlight another name who could quietly spark bidding wars, New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell. He described Mitchell as a proven performer, especially on spin-friendly Indian pitches. His experience, composure, and ability to counter spin make him an attractive option for teams playing on challenging surfaces like Chennai. Mitchell may not grab headlines like Green, but his consistency and adaptability could make him invaluable.
KKR’s massive purse
What makes KKR’s situation even more intriguing is their financial muscle. The three-time champions enter the auction with the biggest purse of Rs 64.30 crore, which gives them flexibility and room to be aggressive. With that kind of budget, expectations are sky-high, and their choices will be closely watched.
As the countdown to December 16 begins, one thing is clear: the battle for quality all-rounders could define IPL 2026. And if Irfan Pathan’s reading is right, Cameron Green might just be at the center of it all.
