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IPL 2026 Auction Target: Why Jonny Bairstow Could Spark a Bidding War

Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar has singled out England's Jonny Bairstow as a potential high-value target for the upcoming IPL auction. He believes Bairstow's aggressive batting and wicketkeeping skills make him especially attractive to teams like Delhi Capitals and KKR. Meanwhile, MSK Prasad pointed out that Indian leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi is also likely to be in high demand. Teams like Sunrisers Hyderabad and Chennai Super Kings could bid for him to bolster their spin-bowling options.

Key Points: Sanjay Bangar Tips Jonny Bairstow as High-Value IPL 2026 Target

  • Sanjay Bangar highlights Bairstow's dual role as a top-order batter and wicketkeeper
  • KKR enters the auction with the highest purse of INR 64.30 crore
  • MSK Prasad identifies Ravi Bishnoi as a valuable asset for his spin and fielding
  • Sunrisers Hyderabad and CSK are potential suitors for leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi
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IPL 2026 Auction: Jonny Bairstow could be high-value target, says Sanjay Bangar

Sanjay Bangar says Jonny Bairstow's dual role as a wicketkeeper-batter makes him a prime target for Delhi Capitals and KKR in the IPL 2026 auction.

"Jonny Bairstow offers dual value as a wicketkeeper and a top-order batter... his full availability makes him an even stronger prospect. - Sanjay Bangar"

Mumbai, December 14

Former India cricketer and batting coach Sanjay Bangar believes England's explosive batter Jonny Bairstow could emerge as a high-value target for franchises seeking a top-order wicketkeeper-batter ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini auction.

Speaking on JioStar's 'IPL Auction Most Wanted' show, Bangar highlighted Bairstow's dual value as both a wicketkeeper and an aggressive top-order batter, making him an attractive option for teams looking to strengthen their batting depth and flexibility in the shortest format of the game, noting that Delhi Capitals and KKR could target him to improve their limited top-order options.

Notably, KKR has the highest remaining purse, entering the IPL 2026 auction with INR 64.30 crore. Delhi Capitals, on the other hand, have INR 21.80 crore left in their purse.

"Jonny Bairstow offers dual value as a wicketkeeper and a top-order batter. He has a proven pedigree and, since he's currently focused solely on T20 cricket, his full availability makes him an even stronger prospect. Teams like Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders could be in the mix -- Delhi need a top-order option after releasing Jake Fraser-McGurk, while KKR might also look at him given their limited choices beyond Quinton de Kock and Rahmanullah Gurbaz," Bangar said.

Former cricketer MSK Prasad noted that Indian leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi's strong bowling, good fielding, and IPL performances make him a valuable asset. Sunrisers Hyderabad may target him due to a shortage of quality spinners, while Chennai Super Kings could be interested because their pitches favour spin and MS Dhoni values fielding skills.

"Ravi Bishnoi brings great energy to any side. We've seen him perform impressively in the IPL -- first with Rajasthan Royals and later with Lucknow Super Giants. Teams will always value a pure bowler who's also an exceptional fielder. Sunrisers Hyderabad will likely have their eyes on Ravi Bishnoi since they're short on quality spinners. Chennai Super Kings could also be interested -- the Chennai surface naturally assists spin, and Bishnoi's exceptional fielding adds even more value, something MS Dhoni always appreciates in his players," MSK Prasad said on JioStar.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

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Priya S
Exciting! 🏏 Bairstow on a Chennai or Eden Gardens pitch would be fireworks. But I'm more interested in Ravi Bishnoi's prospects. A quality Indian leg-spinner is pure gold in the IPL. Hope SRH gets him, they really need a spinner.
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Aman W
Bangar Sir makes a valid point about dual value. In T20, a player who can keep and open is like having an extra bowler. DC should go all out for him. They've been missing a solid opener since Dhawan left.
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Sarah B
As a cricket fan living in India now, the auction drama is the best part of the IPL! The strategy behind these picks is fascinating. KKR with 64 crore can literally build a new team. Hope they spend wisely.
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Vikram M
Fully agree with MSK Prasad. Bishnoi is the future of Indian spin. His fielding is top-class, which is so important in modern cricket. CSK would be a perfect fit for him under Dhoni's guidance.
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Kriti O
Respectfully, while experts focus on overseas players, I feel the core of a winning IPL team is always strong Indian players. Franchises should use their big money to secure the best Indian talent first. The balance is key.

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