The groundwork has been laid for the IPL 2026 mini-auction, and considerable attention is being paid to Indian middle-order batsman Sarfaraz Khan. For a long time, he has been considered a test cricket specialist, although he had an impressive beginning to his IPL career. Now, the star has provided a well-timed and compelling declaration of intent. Sarfaraz slammed his first T20 century for Mumbai against Assam in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) only weeks before the auction. This electrifying performance, which included an undefeated 100 off 47 balls, highlighted his power-hitting and versatility.
This outstanding performance, which occurred following a time of few T20 opportunities, serves as a strong reminder of his abilities and will undoubtedly place him highly on the lists of several franchises. His IPL career stats include 40 matches, 441 runs, a high score of 67, 50 fours, and 11 sixes, but his recent SMAT century at a scorching strike rate demonstrates how far his T20 game has come. Let’s examine some franchises that might, and ought to, pursue Sarfaraz in the next mini-auction.
5 teams that can go for Sarfaraz Khan in IPL 2026 mini auction
1. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
KKR enters the auction with the largest available budget and has a history of investing in Indian middle-order power. KKR may be looking for a flexible Indian batter who can rotate strikes and accelerate quickly, providing an anchor or an aggressor role in the middle overs, following the departure of Andre Russell.
Sarfaraz is a dependable Indian player who can bat at positions 4 or 5. His recent century, which was scored while maintaining a high strike rate, is consistent with KKR’s frequently aggressive batting strategy. KKR could be willing to make a significant offer given their need to rebuild and a sizable budget at their disposal.
2. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)
The Lucknow franchise has frequently used a combination of well-known international and Indian players, and the departure of David Miller has left a noticeable need for a seasoned yet explosive middle-order batter who can handle pressure.
Sarfaraz’s maturity and capacity to anchor an innings while also scoring quickly could be precisely what LSG requires. His prior experience batting with the Mumbai core suggests he is capable of adjusting to a demanding environment. He provides the kind of Indian middle-order stability that LSG frequently looks for to complement their top order.
3. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) – The Homecoming?
Royal Challengers Bengaluru is where Sarfaraz initially established his reputation in the IPL, making his debut at a young age. RCB may be tempted to bring back a well-known player who is now far more accomplished, given that they have a respectable budget and are trying to fill positions in order to contend for the championship.
RCB has frequently struggled to maintain a steady Indian middle-order presence, relying too much on their top three batters. Sarfaraz is capable of offering the much-needed stability and acceleration in the middle overs. His present form, along with the nostalgia element, makes him an appealing target for a potential RCB reunion.
4. Gujarat Titans (GT)
Gujarat Titans have become well-known for their astute auction selections, which have focused on players who offer significant value. They frequently favor adaptable Indian players who can adjust to various game scenarios. The team’s strategy is to create a strong Indian core that is well-rounded.
GT requires players who can step up in a variety of roles. Sarfaraz’s versatility, which was on display in his first T20 century when he constructed an innings, would be highly valued by their management. He could play a key role at positions 4 or 5, bridging the gap between the top order and the lower-order hitters.
5. Mumbai Indians (MI)
Despite having the smallest remaining budget, Mumbai Indians are renowned for supporting their local players, and Sarfaraz is a Mumbai domestic star. MI frequently operates strategically, concentrating on acquiring high-impact Indian players who support their long-term goals.
Sarfaraz would be a great fit if MI values a powerful, versatile local batter in the middle order and can acquire him for a fair price. He is acquainted with the Wankhede pitch and the MI team’s atmosphere. His presence would also strengthen the Mumbai domestic presence within the team.
