IPL Auction 2026, Cameron Green, KKR, Most Expensive Overseas Player, Matheesha Pathirana, Ravi Bishnoi, Rajasthan Royals, IPL Live Updates, KKR Auction Strategy

The IPL Auction 2026 commenced with a bang, setting new financial benchmarks and strategic precedents that promise a fiercely contested season. The biggest headlines of the day centered on the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), who executed a spectacular, high-spending strategy to secure two of the most sought-after players, including the Australian all-rounder Cameron Green.

Cameron Green: The New Overseas King of IPL

In a relentless bidding war that highlighted the massive purse available to KKR, the franchise successfully acquired Cameron Green for an astonishing Rs 25.20 crore.

This historic bid instantly crowned Green as the most expensive overseas player in IPL history, surpassing the previous record held by his fellow Australian, Mitchell Starc. The price tag underscores the immense value franchises place on a world-class, fast-bowling all-rounder who can anchor the batting middle-order and provide crucial pace options. For KKR, the move signals a bold statement of intent and a calculated investment to build a dynamic core for the future.

KKR’s Double Power Play: Pathirana Joins the Knight Riders

KKR’s strategic spending didn’t end with the record-breaking Green purchase. They continued their aggressive pursuit by securing Sri Lankan pace sensation Matheesha Pathirana for a substantial Rs 18 crore. Known for his unique, slingy action and pin-point death bowling, Pathirana’s acquisition is a major coup. The young pacer, who has proven his match-winning ability in the league, will form a formidable overseas bowling partnership, significantly bolstering the Kolkata side’s pace battery and making them a strong contender for the title.

Rajasthan Royals Secure Spin Talent: Ravi Bishnoi

Amidst the massive bids for overseas stars, the Rajasthan Royals (RR) made a crucial local purchase, acquiring Indian leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi for Rs 7.20 crore. Bishnoi, a highly effective wicket-taker in the T20 format, was the subject of an intense bidding battle before RR finally sealed the deal. His inclusion significantly strengthens the Royals’ spin attack, where he is expected to partner the experienced Ravindra Jadeja (who was traded to RR before the auction). This smart, mid-range buy fills a critical squad gap for the Rajasthan franchise, providing a potent spin option for the upcoming IPL 2026 season.

The first session of the IPL 2026 Auction Live Updates has proven that franchises are ready to break the bank for multi-skilled players and high-impact specialists. KKR’s aggressive, record-setting moves have firmly placed them in the spotlight, and the addition of Green and Pathirana promises a thrilling campaign ahead.