The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini-auction is shaping up to be a fascinating battle of strategy and budget management. With several top franchises facing leadership voids and seeking settled top-order batters, the spotlight is firmly fixed on Australian veteran Steve Smith. Set at a manageable base price of INR 2 crores, the former Australian captain brings a wealth of experience, tactical acumen, and a reliable batting technique. His proven track record of stabilizing an innings and his previous stint as an IPL captain make him a high-impact, low-risk target. Let’s have a look at some franchises that are strategically placed to secure Smith’s services.

5 teams that can target Steve Smith in IPL 2026 auction

1. Rajasthan Royals (RR)

• Purse Remaining: ₹16.05 crore | Overseas Slots: 1

Rajasthan Royals are perhaps the most natural fit for Smith’s return. Having previously led the side, Smith is familiar with the franchise’s culture and strategy. Crucially, with the hypothetical departure of key player Sanju Samson, RR has a gaping hole in their top-order batting lineup. They desperately need an experienced, reliable anchor and a potential captaincy figure. With only one overseas slot to fill, Smith represents the perfect, high-value acquisition to stabilize their batting and provide on-field leadership, fitting well within their moderate purse.

2. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)

• Purse Remaining: ₹64.30 crore | Overseas Slots: 3 (Highest Purse)

KKR enters the mini-auction with the deepest pockets, boasting the highest remaining purse. This financial firepower gives them the confidence to engage in a bidding war if necessary. Much like RR, KKR is looking for a settled, consistent top-order batter. The team has historically valued experienced leadership, and Smith fits this requirement perfectly. With three overseas slots available, KKR can afford to bring in Smith as an established pillar around which they can build their batting unit for the next phase of the tournament.

3. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)

• Purse Remaining: ₹22.95 crore | Overseas Slots: 4

Despite retaining several strong overseas players like Aiden Markram, Matthew Breetzke, and Mitchell Marsh, LSG understands the necessity of having quality backups for the high-octane tournament. With four overseas slots open, they have the flexibility to invest in experienced depth. Smith provides an elite-level alternative or a supplementary top-order option, ensuring the team’s balance is not compromised by injuries or poor form among their retained stars. His inclusion would elevate the overall quality and resilience of the squad.

4. Delhi Capitals (DC)

• Purse Remaining: ₹21.80 crore | Overseas Slots: 5

The Delhi Capitals possess a moderate purse, suggesting a strategic focus on acquiring high-impact players who can immediately slot into and complete their playing XI. Smith, a former DC player, is a known quantity who delivers consistent performances. Given DC’s need to solidify their core group of overseas players, Smith represents a proven, high-calibre option who can fulfill both the batting and mentorship roles required to push the team toward a playoff spot.

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5. Gujarat Titans (GT)

• Purse Remaining: ₹12.90 crore | Overseas Slots: 4

The Gujarat Titans face a different challenge: they have a relatively small purse yet need to fill four overseas slots. This dictates a budget-conscious, highly tactical approach. While they have retained core Indian stars like Shubman Gill and overseas talent like Jos Buttler, GT still needs players who can manage their middle-order effectively and act as backup stars. Smith’s low base price of ₹2 crores makes him an extremely attractive, high-quality, and cost-effective option who can anchor the middle overs and guide lower-order batsmen.

Valuable numbers in IPL

Smith’s IPL pedigree makes him a valuable asset. Across 103 matches, he has accumulated 2,485 runs, including one century and eleven fifties, with a highest score of 101. These statistics underscore his capability to deliver match-winning performances and provide the crucial stability that many franchises are currently lacking. His availability at a modest base price ensures that he will be one of the most hotly contested names when the bidding war commences.

Also READ: KKR veteran Andre Russell reveals why he decided to retire from the IPL

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