IPL 2026 Auction | Irfan Pathan Predicts Strong CSK, KKR Interest in Cameron Green

Irfan Pathan believes Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders will strongly pursue Cameron Green and Daryl Mitchell at the IPL 2026 auction in Abu Dhabi on December 16.

The IPL 2026 Mini-Auction approaches with 350 players listed, including 110 overseas names. Several franchises are identifying all-rounders as priority targets. Cameron Green and Daryl Mitchell are among the most sought-after options.

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan noted that Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings are expected to show strong interest in Cameron Green as both teams search for replacements for Andre Russell and Sam Curran. With KKR entering with a substantial purse and CSK also seeking a top-order all-rounder, Green is predicted to attract aggressive bidding on December 16 in Abu Dhabi.

“Cameron Green is a top-quality all-rounder, and with KKR entering the auction with a sizeable purse, they’ll surely target him. With Andre Russell retired, Green offers a like-for-like replacement — someone who can contribute with both bat and ball, though he’ll probably bat a bit higher in the order. I expect CSK to show interest too,” Irfan said on JioStar’s pre-auction show.

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Mitchell Emerges as Prime Overseas Target for CSK

Irfan Pathan also suggested that New Zealand batter Daryl Mitchell will draw notable attention, especially from the Chennai Super Kings. With CSK searching for a dependable overseas middle-order option, Mitchell fits their template perfectly.

“Daryl Mitchell is a quality overseas batter who plays spin exceptionally well — that’s exactly why Chennai Super Kings invested heavily in him earlier, paying around 14 crore. His ability to handle spin on tricky surfaces like Chennai’s makes him a strong asset. With solid experience in both international and league cricket, he brings the temperament and skill teams look for in a proven overseas performer,” the former cricketer concluded.