IPL removes Virat Kohli admirer and 8 more players from 2026 auction list without explanation
IPL 2026 Mini-Auction: BCCI Removes Nine Players from Auction List
Confusion Ahead of IPL Auction
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has stirred up confusion among fans by unexpectedly removing nine names from the updated 2026 mini-auction list just days before the Indian Premier League (IPL) auction. Despite the removal, the BCCI has not provided a specific reason for this decision, leaving fans puzzled and intrigued.
Initial Shortlist and Revisions
Initially, the BCCI had announced a shortlist of 350 players for the IPL 2026 mini-auction from a pool of over 1,300 registrations. However, on the same day, an updated list was released with the addition of nine more cricketers. This sudden change has raised eyebrows and anticipation among IPL enthusiasts.
Among the franchises participating, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) lead with a budget of ₹64.30 crore and 13 vacancies to fill. On the other hand, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have a budget of ₹43.40 crore and nine open slots. Both teams are expected to be active participants in the upcoming auction, scheduled to take place in Abu Dhabi on December 16.
Players Removed from Auction List
Several players who were recently added to the IPL 2026 auction list have now been removed, causing a stir among fans eagerly awaiting the auction. Names like Mani Sankar Mura Singh, Chama Milind, K.L. Shrijith, and Swastik Chikara were visible on the official portal briefly before their removal.
Of notable interest was the removal of Virandeep Singh, the only player from an Associate nation in the auction pool, adding to the mystery surrounding the BCCI’s decision-making process.
Promising Talents Omitted
Among the Indian cricketers removed from the list were Mura Singh from Tripura, who is known for his clean hitting, and Swastik Chikara, a young batter who garnered attention for his performances in local tournaments post his stint with RCB. These omissions have left fans speculating about the reasons behind the last-minute changes.
Additionally, the absence of overseas players like Ethan Bosch from South Africa, Chris Green from Australia, and Malaysia’s Virandeep Singh has added an element of surprise to the upcoming auction.
Lack of Explanation
While the IPL had initially shortlisted 350 players, the sudden removal of these nine individuals without any clear explanation has left fans and experts questioning the motives behind the BCCI’s actions. The league’s silence on the matter has only fueled speculation and anticipation for the upcoming IPL auction.
As cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the IPL 2026 mini-auction, the unexpected removal of these promising talents has added an element of unpredictability to the event, making it a must-watch for fans worldwide.
Speculation and Buzz Among Fans
The sudden removal of these players from the IPL 2026 auction list has sparked a wave of speculation and curiosity among cricket enthusiasts. Fans have taken to social media platforms to express their surprise and discuss potential reasons behind the BCCI’s decision. Some believe that the players may have been removed due to undisclosed injury concerns or eligibility issues, while others speculate about internal team strategies influencing the last-minute changes.
With the absence of clear explanations from the BCCI, fans are left to form their own theories and predictions about how this unexpected turn of events may impact the dynamics of the upcoming auction. This element of mystery has only added to the buzz surrounding the IPL 2026 mini-auction, generating increased interest and anticipation for the event.
Impact on Franchise Strategies
For IPL franchises like Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings, the removal of these players from the auction list could potentially alter their strategies and targets for the upcoming auction. With key players like Mura Singh and Swastik Chikara no longer in the mix, teams may need to reassess their plans and consider alternative options to strengthen their squads.
The sudden shake-up in the player pool has forced franchises to adapt quickly and make informed decisions on how to utilize their budgets and fill crucial vacancies within their teams. As a result, the dynamics of the auction have become even more unpredictable, with teams now having to navigate unexpected changes and re-evaluate their scouting and recruitment processes.
Opportunities for Underrated Players
While the removal of established players from the auction list has grabbed headlines, it also presents an opportunity for lesser-known and underrated cricketers to shine on the big stage. With the spotlight now on unexpected talents and hidden gems, players who were previously overshadowed by more prominent names may have a chance to showcase their skills and land lucrative contracts with IPL franchises.
This unexpected twist in the auction process opens doors for under-the-radar players to make a strong impression and prove their worth to teams looking for hidden talent and potential game-changers. As a result, the IPL 2026 mini-auction could witness the rise of new stars and the emergence of fresh faces in the cricketing world.
Anticipation and Excitement Building
As the countdown to the IPL 2026 mini-auction continues, the anticipation and excitement among fans, players, and franchises are palpable. The unexpected turn of events surrounding the removal of nine players has injected a sense of unpredictability and drama into the auction process, making it a highly anticipated event in the cricket calendar.
With teams strategizing and recalibrating their plans, fans eagerly await the outcome of the auction, eager to see how the revised player pool and the absence of certain names will impact the composition of their favorite teams. The element of surprise and speculation surrounding the auction only adds to the thrill and allure of the IPL, ensuring that all eyes will be on the Abu Dhabi auction on December 16.
By delving into the implications of the BCCI’s decision, the impact on franchise strategies, the opportunities for underrated players, and the overall anticipation surrounding the IPL 2026 mini-auction, this expanded content provides a comprehensive analysis of the evolving dynamics of the event.


