From Ranji to Riches: Players Set for IPL Breakthrough

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has released the trimmed roster of players eligible for the upcoming 2026 mini-auction, cutting the original pool of 1,390 registrations down to 350 names. All 10 franchises will gather in Abu Dhabi on December 16 to fight for talent as they shape their squads for the new season.

Most of the shortlisted players are Indian, featuring a mix of experienced internationals and uncapped talent. Overseas cricketers as well as lesser-known players would be hoping for a breakthrough. Teams have 77 roster spots available, including 31 slots for overseas signings, to fill during the mini auction.

Players enter the auction across eight base-price categories, starting from ₹30 lakh and going up to ₹2 crore. Performances in the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 and the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2026 could influence their chances of being picked at the auction.

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From Ranji to Riches: Players Set for IPL Breakthrough

Auqib Nabi

Auqib Nabi is one of the most dependable fast bowlers in India’s domestic scene. He bowls in the 125-130 kph range, relying on control, swing, and new-ball skills that have drawn comparisons to Bhuvneshwar Kumar.

The pacer has been exceptional in recent Ranji Trophy seasons, picking up 44 wickets at an average below 14 in 2024-25. His impressive performances against Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Rajasthan have pushed him into the national spotlight.

With his reliability across phases and strong domestic record, Nabi now appears poised for a breakthrough at the IPL auction. Several franchises are expected to target him, and he could secure his first IPL deal at a strong price.

Ravichandran Smaran and Abhinav Tejrana

Ravichandran Smaran was signed by Sunrisers Hyderabad for Rs. 30 lakh as Adam Zampa’s replacement for the IPL 2025 season. The 22-year-old has already scored three double-centuries in just 13 first-class matches.

He has delivered big knocks in tough conditions, rescued Karnataka from difficult positions, and shown a blend of calm batting and clean hitting. After performing well in white-ball cricket last year, he has now proved himself in red-ball cricket too.

Abhinav Tejrana also impressed in the Ranji Trophy. After leaving Delhi for more opportunities, he began his Ranji career with a double-hundred for Goa and continued scoring runs, including a century against Saurashtra. His consistent performances have made him one of the most promising batters in the auction.

Sarfaraz Khan and Shams Mulani

Sarfaraz Khan struggled in the Ranji Trophy campaign, a contrast to his usually heavy run-scoring. He managed only 111 runs across his first six innings, unable to convert any start into a fifty. However, he scored 67 runs in the final match of the first leg against Himachal Pradesh.

Shams Mulani is one of Mumbai’s most reliable match-winners. He is once again in contention for a top-three spot among wicket-takers. Despite strong competition among left-arm spinners, he continues to perform with remarkable consistency.

Mulani has played a major role in Mumbai’s position in Group D. He has contributed important runs with the bat and delivered decisive spells with the ball. His standout performances include a seven-wicket haul against J&K and a crucial half-century plus a five-for against Himachal.

Also read: Unknown Indian Names Who Will Shock IPL Auction Table