The mini-auction changed everything for IPL 2026 dramatically across franchises. Leadership changes happened everywhere alongside massive player movements happening simultaneously. High-level T20 cricket promises incredible entertainment from match one onward.
Some players will grab all the headlines this season through performances. The Top 5 Buzzed Players to Watch includes record-breakers and rising stars. IPL 2026 spotlights these game-changers who could define the entire tournament.
- Cameron Green: KKR’s Record Purchase
Kolkata Knight Riders broke the bank paying Rs 25.20 crore for Cameron Green. That makes him the most expensive overseas player in IPL history officially. He replaces Andre Russell who switched to coaching this year surprisingly.
Green bowls at 130 kmph while smashing boundaries as an opener or middle-order. His versatility makes him KKR’s biggest strategic weapon for IPL 2026. That price tag shows how desperately teams wanted his all-round skills.
- Sanju Samson: CSK’s Big Trade
Chennai Super Kings traded Rs 18 crore getting Sanju Samson from Rajasthan Royals. That blockbuster deal shocked everyone when it happened during the auctions. Samson could eventually succeed MS Dhoni’s leadership down the line.
Watching him integrate into CSK’s style will be fascinating this year. His flair batting meets CSK’s finishing culture creating interesting dynamics. Top-order aggression from Samson changes CSK’s approach in IPL 2026 completely.
- Abhishek Sharma: SRH’s Explosive Opener
Abhishek Sharma smashed an IPL record 141 against Punjab last season. The 25-year-old strikes near 163 which terrifies bowling attacks everywhere. Pairing with Travis Head creates the most feared power-play combination currently.
His left-arm spin adds bonus value beyond just explosive batting. Abhishek isn’t a prospect anymore but an established match-winner. The Top 5 Buzzed Players to Watch definitely includes this SRH destroyer.
- Rajat Patidar: Defending Champion Captain
Rajat Patidar captained RCB to their maiden IPL title in 2025. Now he leads the defending champions into IPL 2026 with huge pressure. His middle-order batting combined with tactical maturity won RCB everything last season.
Virat Kohli focuses only on batting now, letting Patidar handle leadership. Building a dynasty becomes Patidar’s mission starting this season immediately. Pressure-scoring ability under tough situations defines his batting style completely.
- Prashant Veer: CSK’s Uncapped Sensation
CSK paid Rs 14.20 crore for 20-year-old Prashant Veer surprisingly. That makes him the joint-most expensive uncapped player ever bought. The left-arm spinner replaces Ravindra Jadeja who left for the Rajasthan Royals.
