tall lanky allrounder Venkatesh Iyer Enters the IPL 2026 mini-auction as one of the biggest names in the highest price bracket. Acquired by Kolkata Knight Riders for Rs 23.75 crore in the IPL 2025 mega-auction, Iyer is now back in the pool after being released due to underwhelming performances. Notably, Iyer is expected to be the preferred selection despite his form in the last edition. As one of only two Indian players with a base price of Rs 2 crore, he may still attract bids from teams looking for a dependable Indian all-rounder who can bat at the top of the order and bowl useful overs.
The IPL 2026 mini-auction to be held on December 16 in Abu Dhabi has a massive registration list of 1,355 players, which includes 45 names in the Rs 2 crore bracket. Competition for the top base-price tier is expected to be high, with only 77 slots available across teams. Iyer scored only 142 runs in 11 matches in the IPL 2025 season without contributing with the ball, due to which he was released.
KKR's big gamble in 2025, bringing back Iyer with a record bid, was based on his past performances and their need for a dependable Indian all-rounder. However, his performance declined last year. With only one half-century, an average under 21 and no bowling contributions, the franchise decided to move on, especially with the large purse required to revamp their team. Meanwhile, the 30-year-old has played 62 IPL matches, scoring 1,468 runs and delivering match-winning performances in multiple seasons.
AI predicts Venkatesh Iyer's IPL 2026 squad and final bid price
| scenarios | Team | final bid price |
| 1 | Chennai Super Kings | 10 -12 crore rupees |
| 2 | Kolkata Knight Riders or Sunrisers Hyderabad | INR 8 – 10 crores |
Based on Artificial Intelligence (AI) predictions, despite his base price of Rs 2 crore, Venkatesh Iyer is expected to easily cross the Rs 8 crore mark in the IPL 2026 auction. The demand for quality Indian all-rounders, the lack of left-handed top-order options, his skill to play multiple batting roles and his added value as a part-time bowler make him an extremely attractive option.
Five-time champions Chennai Super Kings are expected to push hard for Iyer, especially considering their big purse and the need for an all-rounder in the team. Kolkata Knight Riders, who had released him after acquiring him last season, may also rejoin the race. However, this time, they may try to secure him at a lower price than before.
Sunrisers Hyderabad is another team that is likely to show interest as they look to strengthen their Indian batting corps. Iyer could fit in well into their already strong middle order, and if the Orange Army decide to pick up the paddle, he could be a valuable addition to their lineup.
Disclaimer: The predictions in this article are based on AI analysis and are completely hypothetical. They are for entertainment and informational purposes only. Projected teams and bid prices for Venkatesh Iyer in IPL 2026 may not reflect actual results, and CricTracker is not responsible for any discrepancies,
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