IPL Auction 2026: Cameron Green Bought for ₹25.2 Crore—KKR’s Bold Move or Risk Repeated?

Australia’s Cameron Green has become the most expensive overseas player in IPL history after Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) shelled out ₹25.2 crore to secure his services in the IPL 2026 auction. The all-rounder’s signing has raised eyebrows, with questions emerging about whether KKR may be repeating the costly mistake they made with Venkatesh Iyer in the previous auction.

Why KKR Spent Big

Green, known for his explosive batting, was the standout all-rounder on the auction table. With no other overseas T20 player offering a combination of power-hitting and medium-fast bowling, KKR invested heavily to bolster their batting depth. With over ₹64 crore still in their purse, the franchise didn’t hesitate to bid aggressively.

Despite his batting prowess, Green’s bowling record does not inspire the same confidence. In 21 T20 Internationals for Australia, he has scored 521 runs but taken only 12 wickets. Overall in T20 cricket, he has played 63 matches, scoring 1,334 runs and claiming 28 wickets.

T20 Records Show Batting Strength, Not Bowling

In the IPL specifically, Green has played 29 matches, scoring 707 runs at an average of 41 and an impressive strike rate of 153, including 11 not-outs. However, his bowling cannot be compared to power all-rounders like Andre Russell, meaning KKR will primarily rely on him as a top-order batsman rather than a finisher or a bowling spearhead.

History Repeating?

KKR previously invested heavily in Venkatesh Iyer, expecting a top-order match-winner. Iyer failed to deliver and was eventually released. Cameron Green shares a similar profile—strong at the top of the order but not suited to finishing games or leading the team. Experts warn that if Green does not perform as anticipated, KKR may face a repeat of the Iyer scenario.

While the gamble could pay off given Green’s batting potential, KKR’s strategy carries a high-risk, high-reward element. The coming season will reveal whether their ₹25.2 crore investment proves visionary—or costly.