IPL Auction 2026 team needs come into focus in Part II as KKR, Rajasthan Royals, LSG, Gujarat Titans and Mumbai Indians prepare to fix key squad gaps ahead of the Abu Dhabi auction.
🏏 IPL Auction 2026 Team Needs – Part II
The IPL Auction 2026 team needs analysis continues in Part II as several franchises head into the Abu Dhabi mini-auction with clear gaps to address. While some teams are well settled, others are actively hunting for all-rounders, wicketkeepers, overseas pacers, and middle-order stability.
With limited slots and contrasting purse sizes, auction strategy will play a decisive role in shaping the 2026 IPL season.
IPL Auction 2026 Team Needs: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
KKR enter the auction with the largest purse (INR 64.30 crore) and 13 slots to fill, making them one of the most aggressive bidders expected in Abu Dhabi.
The biggest talking point in IPL Auction 2026 team needs for KKR is replacing the void left by Andre Russell. A like-for-like all-rounder remains the top priority, with Cameron Green emerging as the frontrunner.
Another major concern is wicketkeeping. KKR released all their keepers from the previous cycle and have rotated eight wicketkeepers since 2022. Securing a long-term solution — possibly an opener who can keep — will be crucial.
They are also expected to target an overseas fast bowler after releasing Anrich Nortje and Spencer Johnson.
Key targets: Cameron Green, Quinton de Kock, Jonny Bairstow, Matheesha Pathirana
IPL Auction 2026 Team Needs: Rajasthan Royals (RR)
Rajasthan Royals have strengthened their core but still have critical gaps in spin bowling, making wrist spinners their biggest priority in the IPL Auction 2026 team needs list.
The absence of a specialist wrist spinner stands out, especially given RR’s struggles in middle overs and at the death last season. Replicating the Ashwin–Chahal pairing will be a long-term goal.
With Sanju Samson no longer in the squad, RR are also expected to look for an Indian wicketkeeper as backup to Dhruv Jurel.
Key targets: Ravi Bishnoi, Rahul Chahar, Sarfaraz Khan
IPL Auction 2026 Team Needs: Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)
LSG boast strong Indian pace depth but lack balance in the batting department. Their IPL Auction 2026 team needs revolve around acquiring a reliable middle-order batter and an all-rounder.
With most bowlers contributing little with the bat, an overseas all-rounder is almost a necessity. Additionally, after parting ways with Bishnoi, wrist-spin depth is another area of concern.
Key targets: Jason Holder, Deepak Hooda, Wiaan Mulder, Anrich Nortje
IPL Auction 2026 Team Needs: Gujarat Titans (GT)
Gujarat Titans are arguably the most settled side in this IPL Auction 2026 team needs analysis. With just five slots available, their focus will be on fine-tuning rather than rebuilding.
An overseas wicketkeeper remains an option despite Jos Buttler’s presence, while a middle-order overseas batter could replace Sherfane Rutherford. GT may also seek pace cover for Kagiso Rabada.
Key targets: David Miller, Kusal Mendis, Liam Livingstone
IPL Auction 2026 Team Needs: Mumbai Indians (MI)
Mumbai Indians head into the auction with the smallest purse, meaning smart buys will be key. Their IPL Auction 2026 team needs are limited but specific.
MI are likely to target a backup wicketkeeper for Ryan Rickelton and add one domestic middle-order batter. With an otherwise settled XI, MI will focus on value picks rather than marquee signings.
Key targets: Jonny Bairstow, Jamie Smith, Tim Seifert
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Read more: IPL Auction 2026 Team Needs – Part I
