The IPL auction has always been uncertain, with major stars often going unsold or being snapped up for surprisingly low prices. Experience, past achievements, or a big reputation do not always guarantee a hefty contract in the cash-rich league. Team strategies, purse limitations, and the search for specific roles often push reliable performers into the bargain category.
On November 15, all ten IPL franchises released their lists of retained and released players ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction. Several players who earned big money in 2025 may now find themselves available at much lower prices. Here's a look at five players who could become smart budget picks in the upcoming auction.
1. Glenn Maxwell
Category
Data
Matches
7
Runs
48
Average (Avg)
8.00
Strike Rate (S/R)
97.95
(Glenn Maxwell's batting stats in IPL 2025)
Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell, who was once among the top players in IPL auctions, could enter the 2026 auction as a bargain option. Punjab Kings (PBKS) released him after his underwhelming 2025 season, where he scored only 48 runs in six innings at a strike rate below 98.
Maxwell, now 37, was bought for ₹4.2 crore last season, a huge drop from the ₹11 crore he earned with RCB earlier. His form and fitness may push his price even lower this year.
Despite his poor 2025 campaign, Maxwell’s IPL stats remain impressive: 2819 runs at a strike rate of 155.14. Teams needing a finishing batter who also bowls spin, like CSK, KKR, Gujarat Titans, or LSG may view Maxwell as a low-risk, high-reward buy.
Quinton de Kock was released by KKR ahead of the auction, despite being bought for ₹3.6 crore last season. The 32-year-old played eight matches in 2025, scoring 152 runs at an average of 21.71. Star players' overall IPL numbers remain strong; he has played 115 matches and made 3,309 runs at an average of 30.63 and a strike-rate of 134.02.
Teams like Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Delhi Capitals (DC), who are hunting for an experienced top-order batter, can opt for de Kock at a reliable low cost. On the other side, KKR can also attempt to bring him back at a reduced price.
3. Venkatesh Iyer
Released by KKR for a massive previous price of ₹23.75 crore, Iyer is now expected to enter the auction at a far lower valuation. His inconsistent 2025 season means teams may not bid anywhere near his earlier price, making him a potential bargain. In IPL 2025, Venkatesh Iyer played 11 matches, 142 runs at an average of 20.28 and a strike-rate of 139.21.
He remains a high-risk, high-reward player, capable of dangerous stroke play, so the teams like SRH, RR and KKR (who may buy him back with the largest purse) can target him as a smart budget pick.
4. Maheesh Theekshana
Sri Lankan spinner Maheesh Theekshana, one of the most consistent T20 spinners since 2021, could also be a budget pick this year. Released by Rajasthan Royals (RR), he previously cost the team ₹4.40 crore. Since 2021, Theekshana has 207 T20 wickets at an economy of 7.07.
His IPL 2025 season (11 wickets, economy 9.76) was modest, but his skills make him a valuable player for teams looking for a specialist spinner at a lower budget.
5. Akash Deep
Category
Data
Matches
6
Wickets
3
Economy
12.05
(Akash Deep's stats in IPL 2025)
Akash Deep, released by LSG, endured a tough 2025 season, three wickets in six matches at an economy of over 12. Purchased for a massive ₹8 crore after a bidding war, his performances did not justify the price tag.
However, his early IPL seasons, especially with RCB, showcased his talent. With a return to a lower base price expected, teams needing backup Indian pacers may target him as a low-cost depth option. Franchises looking for Indian bowling options like PBKS, KKR, or GT may see value in giving him another opportunity.
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Venkatesh Iyer and Glenn Maxwell (Source: AFP)
