IPL 2026: Five uncapped Indian stars who could hit the jackpot at the auction | Cricket News
With the IPL 2026 mini auction approaching, several uncapped Indian cricketers are suddenly in the spotlight. Mini auctions often produce surprise millionaires, and with the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2025/26 being held just before the auction, this year’s timing has given domestic players the perfect stage to impress IPL scouts. Based on their SMAT performances, here are five uncapped players who could attract strong bids. Auqib Nabi Dar (Jammu and Kashmir) Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Auqib Nabi Dar has quickly become one of the most talked-about names in domestic cricket. The 29-year-old has taken 15 wickets in seven matches in Elite Group B, maintaining an economy of 7.41. Known for swinging the new ball and backed by an excellent first-class record of 125 wickets in 36 matches, Nabi has reportedly been called for trials by several IPL franchises. With teams actively searching for quality Indian pacers, he may turn out to be one of the most sought-after uncapped bowlers at the auction.
Kartik Sharma (Rajasthan) Rajasthan have had a standout SMAT season, qualifying for the knockouts from Elite Group D ahead of major domestic sides like Delhi, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Nineteen-year-old wicketkeeper-batter Kartik Sharma has played a key role in this run. Kartik has scored 133 runs in five matches at a strike rate above 160, making important middle-order contributions. His ability to keep wickets and finish games late could make him a valuable two-in-one option for teams needing both roles covered. Tushar Raheja (Tamil Nadu) Tamil Nadu’s Tushar Raheja is another uncapped wicketkeeper-batter who has caught the eye. The left-hander has scored 151 runs in seven matches at a strike rate of 164 while opening the batting in SMAT 2025/26. He also excelled in the 2025 Tamil Nadu Premier League, where he ended as the tournament’s top scorer with a strike rate of 185. Given the shortage of explosive Indian wicketkeepers this year, Raheja is expected to be high on several teams’ lists. Anmolpreet Singh (Punjab) At 27, Anmolpreet Singh has been a consistent performer in domestic cricket for Punjab, though he has never received the hype enjoyed by teammates like Abhishek Sharma, Prabhsimran Singh, Nehal Wadhera or Ramandeep Singh. This season may change that. Anmolpreet has scored 241 runs in seven matches at a strike rate of 172, second only to Abhishek — the world’s No. 1 T20 batter — among Punjab’s run scorers. He has had short IPL stints with SRH and MI before, but he now enters the IPL 2026 auction as one of the most in-form uncapped Indian batters. Ashok Sharma (Rajasthan) Rajasthan’s 23-year-old pacer Ashok Sharma has finished the league stage of SMAT 2025/26 as the top wicket-taker, grabbing 19 wickets in seven matches. His ability to hit speeds close to 140 kmph makes him an attractive option for teams craving Indian fast-bowling depth. Ashok has also been part of IPL squads earlier, having been picked by Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals, which may further boost his chances of being signed again.
