Ravi Bishnoi Poised to Be Top Indian Player at IPL 2026 Auction

Ravi Bishnoi's Rising Star in IPL

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], December 16: Cheteshwar Pujara, a former Indian cricket player, has expressed his belief that leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi could emerge as the highest-priced Indian player during the upcoming IPL 2026 auction, scheduled for December 16 in Abu Dhabi.

Bishnoi made a significant impression with the Punjab Kings in IPL 2020, earning a nomination for the Emerging Player due to his effective bowling under pressure. His career trajectory shifted notably after he joined the Lucknow Super Giants in 2022, where he established himself as a crucial middle-overs bowler, amassing 39 wickets over three seasons and helping the team reach the playoffs on two occasions. Retained for ₹11 crore at the IPL 2025 auction, Bishnoi has gained recognition as a dependable T20 spinner, boasting impressive IPL statistics of 72 wickets in 77 matches with an economy rate of 8.22.

For the IPL 2026 mini auction, Ravi Bishnoi will enter with a base price of ₹2 crore.

During a discussion on JioStar, Pujara highlighted Bishnoi as a potential top Indian signing, noting the high demand for quality spinners among teams. He stated, “I believe it will be Ravi Bishnoi because teams are looking to acquire several spinners, and he’s among the finest bowlers available in this auction. I predict he will be the most expensive Indian player.”

Additionally, Sanjay Bangar mentioned that the costliest uncapped Indian player will hinge on the demand for particular skills, pointing out left-arm seamer Naman Tiwari and leg-spinner Shubham Agarwal as notable contenders. He remarked, “It will depend on the skill set—whether it’s a left-arm seamer or a leg-spinner. Naman Tiwari excelled in the last U19 edition; he swings the ball effectively and maintains accuracy. In the spinner category, Shubham Agarwal is a talented leg-spinner with considerable experience. Keep an eye on both of them.”