Hottest set in IPL 2026 auction: Top uncapped Indian wicket-keepers poised to draw top bids

Uncapped Indian WKs. [Source - @cricdomestic/x]

The IPL 2026 auction players shortlist has been unveiled, with 350 cricketers set to go under the hammer on December 16. The lineup features 42 sets, categorized by player roles and international experience, featuring both global stars and promising domestic talents.

Set 8, featuring uncapped Indian wicket-keepers, is one of the most intriguing IPL 2026 segments. These players offer teams options as first-choice keepers, reliable backups, or explosive middle-order finishers, combining raw talent, role behind the stumps, and power-hitting potential, making them high value picks in the auction.

1. Ruchit Ahir

Ruchit Ahir, Saurashtra’s explosive uncapped wicket-keeper, listed 51st in players’ shortlist, has delivered standout T20 performances since debuting in 2024, excelling as a middle-order finisher with elite strike rates and exceptional six-hitting abilities.

Key pointers:

• SMAT 2024: 170 runs in 5 games, two fifties, SR 178.94
• Shifted to finisher in 2025 early, scoring 163 at SR 159.80
• Most sixes across two editions for Saurashtra - 25 sixes
• Strong wrists enable clean six-hitting vs top spinners like Varun Chakravarthy and Krunal Pandya.
• Depends on timing with power against pace, rare for modern power-hitters.
• The first name in the uncapped Indian wicket-keeper set.

Ruchit Ahir T20 stats

2. Mukul Choudhary

Mukul Choudhary, from Rajasthan, listed 53rd, enters the auction as a fearless young power-hitter, coming off a stunning Men’s State A Trophy where he dominated with elite consistency, brutal strike rates, and power hitting.

Key pointers:

• Men’s State A Trophy 2025: 617 runs, avg 102.83, SR 142.49.
• Smashed 34 sixes, the highest in the U23 tournament.
• Plays powerfully in the ‘V’ and straight down the ground.
• SMAT heroics: 62 off 26, including chasing 25 successfully in the final over for Rajasthan.
• Exceptional bat speed.

Mukul Choudhary T20 stats

(as of date of writing this)

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3. Tushar Raheja

Tushar Raheja, listed 54th, a dynamic left-handed top-order wicket-keeper, exploded in Tamil Nadu Premier League 2025 with elite strike rates and consistent runs.

Key pointers:

• TNPL 2024: SR around 150; breakout in 2025 with ~500 runs at SR 185.55.
• Crushed 32 sixes in TNPL 2025, showcasing elite power.
• Offers stability plus attacking intent, ideal left-handed top-four keeper option.
• Has taken on top spinners like R. Ashwin and Varun Chakravarthy with confidence.
• Despite some TN senior team inconsistencies, his ceiling and uniqueness make him auction-worthy.

Tushar Raheja T20 stats

4. Kartik Sharma

Kartik Sharma, a 19-year-old prodigy, listed 55th, has rapidly risen from age-group dominance to smashing centuries on both List A and first-class debuts for Rajasthan.

Key pointers:

• Centuries on both List A and first-class debut for Rajasthan.
• Effortless six-hitter with clean extension and natural power against pace.
• Excellent range and confidence against spin.
• Temperament beyond his age.
• One of the most exciting teenage batting prospects available in the mini-auction.

Kartik Sharma T20 stats 

(as of date of writing)

5. Tejasvi Singh 

Tejasvi Singh Dahiya, listed 56th, Delhi’s explosive keeper-batter, announced himself with a century in the 2024 Vijay Hazare Trophy and dominated the 2025 Delhi Premier League like no one. With brutal finishing ability, power-hitting, and versatility in the middle order, he is worth taking a look at.

Key pointers:

• Delhi Premier League 2025: 339 runs at SR 190.
• Announced himself with a 78-ball 114-run knock in VHT, 2024-25.
• SMAT 2025 standout: 53* off 19 vs Karnataka, showcasing finishing skills.
• Strong pick-up shots, ideal for death overs and middle-order impact.
• Flexible backup wicket-keeper-batter with excellent range of shots.

Tejasvi Singh Dahiya T20 stats

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