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Why KKR Will Target Cameron Green at the IPL 2026 Auction

Former cricketer Irfan Pathan believes Cameron Green will be a hot commodity at the upcoming IPL auction. He specifically highlighted the Kolkata Knight Riders as a likely suitor, given their need to replace the retired Andre Russell. Pathan also mentioned that the Chennai Super Kings could enter the bidding for the Australian all-rounder. Additionally, he discussed the enduring value of New Zealand's Daryl Mitchell for his expertise against spin bowling.

Key Points: Irfan Pathan Says KKR, CSK to Target Cameron Green in IPL Auction

  • Pathan sees Green as a like-for-like replacement for the retired Andre Russell at KKR
  • Green is fully available to bowl again after missing IPL 2025 due to back surgery
  • Chennai Super Kings are also expected to show interest in the Australian all-rounder
  • Pathan also praised Daryl Mitchell's value as a proven batter against spin
2 min read

KKR will surely target Cameron Green: Irfan Pathan on Australian all-rounder ahead of IPL 2026 auction

Irfan Pathan explains why Cameron Green is a prime target for KKR as an Andre Russell replacement and why CSK could also bid for the Australian all-rounder.

"Cameron Green is a top-quality all-rounder, and with KKR entering the auction with a sizeable purse, they'll surely target him. - Irfan Pathan"

New Delhi, December 14

Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan discussed why Australian all-rounder Cameron Green will attract strong interest from teams like Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction.

Speaking on the 'TATA IPL Auction Most Wanted' show, JioStar expert Irfan Pathan said that Green could offer a like-for-like replacement to KKR after Andre Russell's retirement. He added that CSK could also show interest in the Australian all-rounder.

"Cameron Green is a top-quality all-rounder, and with KKR entering the auction with a sizeable purse, they'll surely target him. With Andre Russell retired, Green offers a like-for-like replacement -- someone who can contribute with both bat and ball, though he'll probably bat a bit higher in the order. I expect CSK to show interest too," Pathan said.

Earlier, Green confirmed he will be fully available to bowl in the IPL 2026 season, according to ESPNcricinfo. The 26-year-old, who previously played for the Mumbai Indians (MI) in 2023 and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in 2024, had missed the IPL 2025 season while recovering from back surgery.

Green returned to international cricket in June as a specialist batter but has since been cleared to bowl and has been featuring as an allrounder for Australia in the ongoing Ashes series.

JioStar expert Pathan also explained why New Zealand star Daryl Mitchell remains a valuable overseas option in IPL.

"Daryl Mitchell is a quality overseas batter who plays spin exceptionally well -- that's exactly why Chennai Super Kings invested heavily in him earlier, paying around 14 crore. His ability to handle spin on tricky surfaces like Chennai's makes him a strong asset. With solid experience in both international and league cricket, he brings the temperament and skill teams look for in a proven overseas performer," Pathan said.

IPL has finalised the list of players for the 2026 season. The list features 350 players who will be up for bidding at the upcoming auction in Abu Dhabi on December 16.

Out of 1,390 players who registered for the auction, 350 were shortlisted, including 240 Indian and 110 overseas players. The pool also includes 224 uncapped Indian players and 14 uncapped overseas players, bringing fresh talent and depth to this year's auction.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As a CSK fan, I hope we don't get into a bidding war for Green. We already have a solid core. Let's focus on finding a good Indian fast bowler instead. Our scouting is usually brilliant.
A
Ananya R
Why are we always so obsessed with overseas players? The article says 240 Indian players are in the pool! I wish experts talked more about our domestic talent. We have amazing all-rounders like Riyan Parag who proved themselves last season.
V
Vikram M
Green is a quality player, no doubt. But replacing Andre Russell? That's a tall order. Russell's impact in the IPL is legendary. Let's see if Green can handle the pressure at Eden Gardens. Excited for the auction!
K
Karthik V
Good analysis by Pathan. Daryl Mitchell is a very underrated player. His game against spin is perfect for Indian conditions. CSK was smart to pick him up. Hope he has a great season.
M
Michael C
Interesting to see the auction in Abu Dhabi. The IPL truly is a global event now. Cameron Green is a fantastic talent, and it's good to hear he's fully fit to bowl. Should be a great addition to any team.

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