The much-awaited IPL 2026 mini-auction is scheduled to take place at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday, December 16. With all 10 franchises combined allowed to spend up to INR 237 crore, the event promises intense bidding and intriguing squad strategies. So let’s have a look on Youngest and oldest players in IPL 2026 mini-auction.
Initially, 350 players were shortlisted for the auction, but the list has now expanded to 369 players following last-minute inclusions. While franchises like Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are expected to be active due to multiple vacancies, Mumbai Indians (MI) are likely to have a quiet day, entering the auction with just INR 2.75 crore in their purse and a squad already comprising 20 players.
Franchise Dynamics Ahead of the Auction
KKR are tipped to be among the busiest teams after releasing nine players, including last season’s big-money signing Venkatesh Iyer. Their sizeable purse and open slots make them a key franchise to watch. In contrast, MI have limited flexibility and are expected to focus only on filling critical gaps.
Youngest Player in IPL 2026 Mini-Auction
The youngest cricketer available at the IPL 2026 mini-auction is Wahidullah Zadran, an off-spinner from Afghanistan. Having turned 18 in November, Zadran enters the auction with a base price of INR 30 lakh, the minimum allowed.
Despite his young age, Zadran already boasts impressive numbers. In 19 T20 matches, he has claimed 28 wickets at an average of 16.32 and a strike rate of 14.5, while maintaining a tidy economy rate of 6.72. He has also gained valuable exposure by representing the Gulf Giants in the ILT20, adding to his appeal as a promising long-term prospect.
Oldest Player in IPL 2026 Mini-Auction
At the other end of the spectrum stands Jalaj Saxena, the oldest player in the auction pool. The experienced spin-bowling all-rounder recently turned 39 on December 15 and has set his base price at INR 40 lakh.
Saxena has featured in just one IPL match, playing for Punjab Kings against Delhi Capitals in 2021. However, his domestic T20 record speaks volumes about his consistency. Across 79 T20 matches, he has scored 709 runs and picked up 86 wickets, with bowling figures averaging 17.67. He was last seen in action during the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, representing Maharashtra under the leadership of Prithvi Shaw.
Also read: Who Is Mallika Sagar in IPL Mini Auction 2026?
A Blend of Youth and Experience
The IPL 2026 mini-auction once again highlights the league’s unique blend of raw talent and seasoned experience. From an 18-year-old Afghan spinner to a 39-year-old Indian all-rounder, franchises will weigh potential against proven reliability as they fine-tune their squads ahead of the new season.
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