The scene is set IPL 2026 The mini-auction and spotlight has firmly turned to the Indian medium order trend Sarkaraz Khan. As a star professional, despite an explosive start to his IPL career, it has been a long time since the star made a timely and emphatic statement. A few weeks before the auction, Sarfaraz’s maiden T20 century – 47 balls 100 * -Fartabali mumbai Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) Against Assam, an innings that showcased his power and alignment perfectly.
Coming after a period of limited T20 opportunities, this blistering act serves as a powerful reminder of his talent and will surely place him high on the wish lists of several franchises. His IPL career stats of 40 matches, 441 runs, top score of 67, 50 fours and 11 sixes prove that he developed his T20 game at a blistering strike rate in his last SMAT century. Let’s take a look at some of the franchises that could land Sarfaraz in the upcoming mini-auction.
5 teams that could go for Sarfaraz Khan in IPL 2026 mini auction
1. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
KKR is entering the auction with the biggest remaining bag and has historically shown a willingness to invest in the Indian Middle Order Fireptor. After being released Andre RussellKKR may be looking for a versatile Indian batsman who can turn the strike and accelerate sharply, offering an anchor or an attacking role.
Sarfaraz, batting at number 4 or 5, provides a successful Indian option while maintaining a high strike rate. With a huge budget to rebuild and spend, KKR wanted to bid high.
2. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)
The Lucknow franchise has often relied on the mix and release of established international and Indian stars David Miller He has created a clear gap for an experienced but explosive middle-order batsman who can apply pressure.
Sarfaraz’s maturity and ability to shoot while scoring quick goals could be exactly what LSG need. The Mumbai core sinking experience suggests that it may be suitable for a high-pressure structure. An Indian middle-order offers stability, with LSG often trying to complement their top order.
3. Royal Paintings Bengaluru (RCB) – Homecoming?
Royal Rallengers Bengaluru is where Sarfaraz made his mark in the IPL, making his debut in his first year. With RCB holding a decent bag and looking to fill the slots to challenge for the title, they may be tempted to bring back a familiar face who is now more of an all-rounder.
RCB have often struggled with a consistent Indian middle-order presence, relying heavily on their top three. Sarfaraz can provide the much needed solidity and pace in the middle overs. The nostalgia factor combined with his current form makes him an attractive target for a potential RCB merger.
Read: IPL 2026: 5 franchises that could target Abhimanyu Easwar in mini-auction
4. Gujarat Titans (GT)
Gujarat Titans have been known for their smart auction selections that focus on high value players. They often favor versatile Indian players who can adapt to different match situations. The team’s strategy is to build a well-rounded Indian core.
GT needs players who can step into different roles. Sarfaraz’s fitness will be appreciated by his management, where his daughter has established a T20 hundred shot. He can fill the role of a number 4 or 5, acting as an important bridge between the top-order and lower-order hitters.
5. Mumbai Indians (mi)
Despite being the smallest bag left, Mumbai Indians are known to support their local players and Sarfaraz is Mumbai’s local star. Mi often draws attention for providing high-impact Indian players in line with its long-term vision.
If Mi can lock down a strong, agile local in the middle order and at a reasonable price, Sarfaraz would be an ideal match. Familiar with the Wankhede pitch and Mi team environment. His presence will also strengthen the domestic Mumbai contingent in the squad.
Read: IPL 2026: 5 teams to target Andre Russell in mini-auction
