3 IPL Teams that might target Nishant Sindhu after heroics vs Australia A

Rajgeeta Yadav

Nishant Sindhu [Source: @RanaAhmad056/X.com]Nishant Sindhu [Source: @RanaAhmad056/X.com]

Nishant Sindhu has been turning heads with his stellar performances for India A against Australia A. In the first ODI of the series, the left-arm spinner was the star, picking up four crucial wickets and helping India A secure a commanding 171-run victory. But Sindhu’s impact isn’t limited to just bowling; he has did well with the bat, showing his potential as a genuine all-rounder.

Despite his consistent form in domestic cricket, including the Duleep Trophy, and his crucial role in India’s Under-19 World Cup triumph in 2022, Nishant Sindhu is yet to make his mark in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He was part of the Chennai Super Kings squad in 2023 and later picked by Gujarat Titans for ₹30 lakh in 2025, but he hasn’t played a single match so far. 

With the IPL 2026 mini-auction approaching, franchises will have an opportunity to invest in this promising talent.

Why IPL teams should target Nishant Sindhu

Nishant Sindhu brings multiple advantages: he is a wicket-taking left-arm spinner, a capable lower-order batter, and a proven performer in high-pressure domestic matches. 

Nishant Sindhu's batting stats in T20s
Mat
Runs
Ave
SR
2646024125

Nishant Sindhu's bowling stats in T20s

Mat
Wkts
Ave
Econ
SR
261719618
  • In 26 domestic matches, he has scored 460 runs, including a century and a fifty, demonstrating his ability to contribute crucial runs in the lower order. His strike rate in matches like the SMAT against Andhra Pradesh in 2024, where he scored 100 off just 48 balls, shows his capability as a game-changing batter. 
  • With the ball, Sindhu has taken 17 wickets at an economy rate of 6.39, proving his skill in controlling the flow of runs while picking key wickets. 
  • Additionally, his left-arm spin adds variety to a team’s bowling attack, making it harder for opposition batters to settle. Beyond the stats, his performance against Australia A, where he took four wickets and helped India A win by 171 runs, demonstrates his readiness for higher-pressure contests. 

Teams looking for a player who can deliver consistently with both bat and ball while providing spin variety would find Sindhu an ideal pick for IPL 2026.

So, which IPL teams might benefit most from signing Nishant Sindhu?

1. Rajasthan Royals (RR)

Rajasthan Royals had a disappointing IPL 2025, finishing 9th and failing to qualify for the playoffs. Their spin department struggled throughout the season. 

While they have bowlers like Wanindu Hasaranga (11 wickets in 11 matches, economy 9.05) and Maheesh Theekshana (11 wickets, economy 9.76), the team lacks depth and an effective Indian backup spinner. Kumar Kartikeya, another option, managed just two wickets in four matches. 

Nishant Sindhu could bring a much-needed balance to RR’s squad. His left-arm spin adds variety, and his batting ability provides flexibility in the middle order, something RR could definitely use to strengthen both departments.

2. Mumbai Indians (MI)

Mumbai Indians had a decent IPL 2025 but fell short in the playoffs against Punjab Kings. MI relies on Mitchell Santner and Karn Sharma for spin, but the team lacks a consistent Indian spinner. Vignesh Puthur played five matches, taking six wickets at an economy of 9.08, showing inconsistency. 

Nishant Sindhu could be a perfect fit here as a young, homegrown spinner who can also contribute with the bat. His ability to bat aggressively in the lower order would give MI more options, especially in crunch situations where depth in batting can make a huge difference.

3. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)

RCB celebrated their maiden IPL title in 2025, thanks to a strong lineup. However, they rely on Suyash Sharma and Krunal Pandya for their spin attack. Krunal’s fitness and form can be unpredictable. In such a scenario, Sindhu can be a valuable backup option. 

The Haryana all-rounder’s left-arm spin could also complement Suyash Sharma, while his batting adds versatility to the squad. Having Sindhu on the roster would give RCB more balance and can ensure that they remain competitive even if one of their key players is unavailable.