Abu Dhabi, (UNI) Several high-profile international and domestic cricketers were left unsold at the IPL 2026 mini-auction here on Tuesday, underlining the unpredictable dynamics of the auction and franchises’ shifting priorities.
India batsman Sarfaraz Khan, despite consistent domestic performances in recent seasons, failed to attract any bids during his turn at the auction. England’s experienced wicketkeeper-batsman Jonny Bairstow also went unsold, marking a surprise outcome given his extensive IPL and international experience.
New Zealand opener Devon Conway, who has previously enjoyed successful stints in the league, similarly remained without a buyer as franchises opted for younger or more versatile options in a tightly managed purse environment.
In contrast to the unsold names, Australia fast bowler Mitchell Starc, the previous overseas record holder, was not part of the 2026 auction pool. Starc had set the benchmark at Rs 24.75 crore during the IPL 2024 auction, a record that stood until it was eclipsed earlier on Tuesday.
The absence of bids for several established players highlighted a clear trend at this year’s auction, with franchises prioritising multi-dimensional cricketers and long-term investments over reputation alone, even as the IPL continues to redefine market valuations season after season.
Sarfaraz, Bairstow, Conway go unsold at IPL 2026 auction
