Expectations for Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 The mini-auctions offer franchises a chance to land a top-performing talent in 2027 and before a potential mega-auction, especially in the entire instructional department.
With a larger purse value expected for the mini-auction, teams will be in fierce bidding for versatile international players who can stand out. Cooper ConnollyA young Australian, a young all-rounder, given his left-handed batting program and spin-bowling ability, he is a commodity that could attract serious interest from many teams. Teams will look at him as a long-term investment capable of delivering consistent winning performances.
Cooper Connolly: Australian form all-rounder
Connoly, the young Australian left-handed, left-arm sergeant, slow left-arm orthodox, has emerged as one of the most exciting talents on the global circuit, displaying exceptional form leading up to the IPL 2026 mini-auction. His development has been rapid for an Australian side in the hands of the U19 National Team, moving through a large Australian side of his own in all three formats.
Connolly’s T20 prowess, in particular Big Bash League (BBL) for Pertherbersbecame prominent. In the BBL 2024/25 season, he scored 351 runs at an impressive average of over 50 and a high strike rate with a high strike rate of 351 runs and a high strike rate, showcasing his ability to score two crucial and high centuries while driving momentum. He also weighed in with an economy rate below 6.5, confirming his value as a dual threat.
His recent performances for Australia in limited-overs cricket have also been notable, with a match-winning 61* in this last ODI, along with a brilliant 5-Wicket Haul against South Africa, indicating that he has performed under pressure. First, his ability to finish his declared games from 11* off 11 in a BBL final positions him as a complete package for the IPL.
Read: Royal Rallengers Bengaluru: 5 players can be released ahead of RCB IPL 2026 auction
5 franchises that could target Connolly Connolly in UPCER 2026
Here are five teams that could aggressively target Connolly in the IPL 2026 mini-auction:
1. Gujarat Titans (GT): Gujarat Titans have often looked for a reliable middle-order batter to complete their strong top three and he fits the bill perfectly. They need a flexible player who can stabilize the middle auctions and blossom late. Left-handed and slow left-arm spin on the bowl can also offer a distinct tactical advantage, especially on spin-friendly tracks. With a reputation for investing in young, high-potential talent, GT could see Connolly as a long-term key member.
2. Royal Paintings Bengaluru (RCB): RCB looked for a line-up that can often be wound up aggressively in the middle order and offer a sixth bowling option, especially with some foreign players not suited in that role. Connolly’s high strike rate and handy left-arm spin make him an ideal candidate for the traditionally high-scoring Chinnaswamy Stadium. It would provide the team with much-needed middle-order stability and a rotational bowling option to balance the XI.
3. Chennai Super Kings (CSK): CSK build their team with a versatile all-rounder, especially a left-arm orthodox spinner who performed well at the Chepauk stadium. Connolly would be a great fit as he offers a quality selection of yarns to bat anywhere from number five and partner his other spinners. Ability to absorb pressure and pressure with hiRight with CSK’s team philosophy to select ‘Smart’ cricketers who surrender under pressure.
4. Mumbai Indians (mi): Mumbai Indians are always on the hunt for dynamic all-rounders to fill the void of former stars and bolster their middle-order strength. Connolly offers a true left-handed option in the middle order, adding variety to a batting line-up that can sometimes become right-handed dominant. Bowling provides an additional option of spin and its fields are best suited for a strategy of assembling highly skilled, high-impact players who can be part of their core for years to come.
5. Rajasthan Royals (RR): Rajasthan Royals often look for young, exciting foreign talent who have stability and firepower in the middle order. RR have struggled to find a consistent finish to replace players who have been released or sold in recent seasons. Connolly’s finishing ability and aggressive approach with the bat, combined with his valuable left arm on Cuipur’s spin-assisted pitches, make him an extremely attractive proposition. He would add depth and ideal balance in the Royals starting lineup.
Read: IPL 2026: 5 franchises that could target Cameron green in the upcoming auction
