IPL 2026 Auction: Underrated Players Who Could Spark Bidding Wars – As the IPL 2026 mini-auction approaches, franchise war rooms are buzzing with strategies, trade window decisions, and scouting reports. While the spotlight will naturally fall on the big-ticket names and high-profile trade targets, this year’s auction might also be remembered for the dark horses—those underrated or breakout performers who quietly made their mark in international cricket or franchise leagues like The Hundred and MLC.
Let’s explore the top underrated players expected to attract major bids in the upcoming IPL 2026 mini-auction.
IPL 2026 Auction Underrated Players List
1. Jacob Duffy – New Zealand’s Bowling Machine
| Stat | Performance |
|---|---|
| T20Is in 2025 | 13 Matches |
| Wickets in 2025 | 23 Wickets |
| Economy Rate (2025) | 6.78 |
| ICC T20I Ranking | No.1 (as of April 2025) |
Jacob Duffy’s rise in 2025 has been nothing short of impressive. After a sensational series against Pakistan, he reached the No. 1 spot in the ICC T20I bowling rankings. Known for his sharp bounce, tight economy, and ice-cold nerves during death overs, Duffy is the kind of bowler every IPL team dreams of. Expect him to fetch serious interest from franchises looking to solidify their pace attack.
2. Matthew Short – Australia’s Utility Package
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Role | Batting all-rounder |
| Batting Positions | Opener to No. 6 |
| Bowling Style | Off-spin |
| 2025 MLC Performance | Among top run-scorers |
After going unsold in the 2025 mega auction, Matthew Short might just bounce back in style. A power-hitter who can anchor innings, bowl off-spin, and even captain if needed, Short offers everything a team needs in a flexible T20 asset. His standout MLC season has caught the eyes of multiple scouts. With a revised strategy, expect teams to go all-in this time.
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3. Pathum Nissanka – Sri Lanka’s Top-Order Rock
| Tournament | Runs | Avg | SR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asia Cup 2025 | 261 | 43.50 | 160.12 |
Pathum Nissanka’s consistent form in the Asia Cup 2025 showcased his ability to handle both spin and pace with elegance and aggression. He’s not just a stylish batter but also an efficient one—ideal for IPL opening roles. His ability to maintain a high strike rate while playing textbook shots gives him an edge for franchises needing dependable starts.
4. Jordan Cox – The Middle-Order Enforcer
| Matches | Runs | Avg | Strike Rate | Sixes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Hundred 2025 | 367 | 61.16 | 173.93 | 22 |
Jordan Cox was one of the standout stars of The Hundred 2025. His fearless batting, especially under pressure, and ability to shift momentum in the middle overs, makes him a red-hot candidate in the auction. Teams lacking finishing power will be keeping a very close eye on him.
5. Josh Tongue – England’s Pace Powerhouse
| Matches | Wickets | Avg | Best Bowling |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 14 | 11.07 | 3/21 |
Josh Tongue’s steep bounce and late movement make him a handful in any conditions. With a reputation for breaking partnerships and managing death overs, Tongue is a hidden gem among England’s pace battery. IPL teams seeking aggressive quicks could invest big in him.
6. Zak Crawley – Calm, Classy & Consistent
| Matches | Runs | Avg | SR | HS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 280 | 40.00 | 160.00 | 67* |
Zak Crawley isn’t flashy, but he’s reliable. And in the IPL, that matters. Known for building solid platforms, his classical technique and intent-based playstyle are well-suited for Indian pitches. Franchises looking for calm heads at the top could target him as a strategic addition.
7. Rehan Ahmed – Spin Wizard in the Making
| Overs | Wickets | Avg | Economy | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 12 | 15.91 | 7.64 | 3/15 |
Rehan Ahmed is no longer a rising star—he’s already arrived. His control, flight, and variation make him one of England’s most exciting spin prospects. A young leggie who also bats decently, Rehan could be a long-term investment for spin-hungry IPL sides.
8. Sam Billings – Leadership, Experience & Utility
| Matches | Runs | Avg | SR | Captaincy Titles |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 53 | 26.50 | 151.42 | 3 (The Hundred Titles) |
Though his batting numbers weren’t headline-worthy this season, Billings’ leadership qualities and wicketkeeping abilities give him an edge. His experience in Indian conditions and tactical mind could help guide younger squads or even serve as backup captain.
Like to read: Top 10 Most Successful IPL Captains
Final View: Why These Players Matter
While the IPL 2026 auction will undoubtedly witness fireworks over marquee stars, these underrated performers could become game-changers for any franchise. From power-packed batters to skillful bowlers and tactical leaders, this batch of hidden gems offers both short-term impact and long-term value.
Teams that invest smartly in these players could very well turn the tables in the upcoming season—because sometimes, it’s the underrated names that make the loudest noise.
