The IPL 2026 auction in Abu Dhabi on December 16 is shaping up to be a star-studded event, with several high-profile players and coaches in attendance. Australian all-rounder Cameron Green is expected to draw significant attention, alongside fellow Australians Josh Inglis, Matthew Short, Cooper Connolly, and Beau Webster. The mini-auction is poised to be one of the most closely watched in recent IPL history.
Australia Assistant Coach Daniel Vettori, who also serves as the Head Coach of SunRisers Hyderabad, has sought permission from Cricket Australia to attend the IPL auction, meaning he will miss part of the Ashes Series. This decision highlights the growing influence of the IPL, which is drawing even international coaching staff away from traditional cricketing commitments.
Meanwhile, Punjab Kings’ Shreyas Iyer is likely to be present in Abu Dhabi for the auction. However, PBKS coach Ricky Ponting is expected to miss the event due to his commitments as a commentator with the Seven Network for the Ashes, with the third Test beginning on December 17. His absence underscores the logistical challenges faced by international coaches balancing IPL and national duties.
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Former India wicketkeeper-batter and RCB mentor Dinesh Karthik described the preparation leading up to the auction as intense, yet highly rewarding. Speaking in a video shared by RCB, Karthik said, “If the world gets to see all the discussions and planning, they could make a 10-part TV series out of it. It was the most exhilarating 10 days of preparation I have experienced.”
Karthik highlighted the exhaustive behind-the-scenes work that goes into auction strategy, including player analysis, team-building discussions, and budgeting. He added, “Mo and Andy have a very detailed process. The preparation phase is challenging, fun, and extremely engaging, giving you a deep insight into what it takes to build a winning IPL team.”
With top international players and coaches attending, the IPL 2026 auction promises to be a high-octane affair. Fans and franchises alike are eagerly anticipating the strategies, surprises, and high-value bids that are expected to dominate the Abu Dhabi event.
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