In addition to his skill set, star Australian all-rounder Cameron Green has drawn the most attention during the IPL 2026 mini-auction due to a calculated move. Surprisingly, the Australian, a true pace-bowling all-rounder, has registered as a batter rather than an all-rounder. Interestingly, the logic behind it is computed with a mini-auction’s dynamics in mind.
In the IPL 2026 mini-auction, Cameron Green listed himself as a batter. Why?
The batters’ list is displayed first in mini-auctions, then the all-rounders and bowlers. Green is aware that there was a good chance his name would have shown considerably later, when some organisations would have already made significant investments in other players, if he had classified himself as an all-rounder. He guarantees that his name will appear first, when franchise purses are at their fullest, by selecting the “batter” category. Cameron Green is setting himself up for maximum exposure and bidding.
Another important consideration in Cameron Green choice was the BCCI regulation.
The decision is also influenced by the new BCCI maximum-fee regulation for international players. No foreign cricket player may be paid more than INR 18 crore in a mini-auction under this rule, even if the winning bid exceeds that sum. Instead of going to the player’s pocket, anything over INR 18 crore goes into the BCCI’s central pool.
Given the limited market for all-rounders and the enormous salaries of clubs like KKR (INR 64.3 crore) and CSK (INR 43.4 crore), Cameron Green, who was already purchased for INR 17.5 crore in 2023, is well aware that he will probably reach the 18-crore threshold once more. Cameron Green maximises the amount he can really take home before the regulation takes effect by getting his name called early, which provides him the best chance of exceeding that cap.
Cameron Green is a tremendous asset to franchises. KKR is the early frontrunner since they have the money to replace an all-rounder like Andre Russell. After a disappointing season, CSK is rebuilding and is looking for players with a variety of skills who can adjust to Chepauk circumstances. Green is aware of the tremendous level of interest across organisations. He puts himself in a position to start the bidding war by registering as a batter.
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