Venkatesh Iyer's IPL 2026 Auction: AI predicts team and final bid price

Tall-lanky all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer enters the IPL 2026 mini-auction as one of the biggest names in the highest price bracket. Acquired by Kolkata Knight Riders for a whopping INR 23.75 crore at the IPL 2025 mega-auction, Iyer is now back in the pool after being released due to underwhelming performances. Notably, Iyer is expected to be a hot pick despite his form in the previous edition. As one of only two Indian players with an INR 2 crore base price, he could still attract bidding from teams looking for a dependable Indian all-rounder who can bat in the top order and bowl handy overs.

The IPL 2026 mini-auction, set for December 16 in Abu Dhabi, features a massive registration list of 1,355 players, including 45 names in the INR 2 crore bracket. The competition for the top base-price category is expected to be high, with only 77 total slots available across teams. Iyer, in the IPL 2025 season, scored only 142 runs in 11 matches without contributing with the ball, which led to his release.

KKR’s massive gamble in 2025, bringing back Iyer with a record bid, was based on his past performances and their need for a dependable Indian all-rounder. However, his performance dipped last year. With just one fifty, an average below 21, and no bowling contributions, the franchise chose to move on, especially with a large purse required for revamping their squad. Meanwhile, the 30-year-old has played 62 IPL matches, scoring 1,468 runs, and has delivered match-winning performances in multiple seasons.

AI Predicts Venkatesh Iyer's IPL 2026 Team and Final Bid Price   

Based on Artificial Intelligence (AI) prediction, despite a base price of INR 2 crore, Venkatesh Iyer is expected to comfortably cross the INR 8 crore mark at the IPL 2026 Auction. The demand for quality Indian all-rounders, the scarcity of left-handed top-order options, his skill-set to play multiple batting roles, and his added value as a part-time bowler make him a highly attractive pick. 

Five-time champions Chennai Super Kings are expected to go hard for Iyer, especially given their sizeable purse and their need for an all-rounder in the squad. Kolkata Knight Riders, who released him after acquiring him last season, could also re-enter the race. This time, however, they may try to secure him at a lower price than what they spent previously.

Sunrisers Hyderabad are another team likely to show interest as they look to strengthen their Indian batting core. Iyer could fit well into their already strong middle order, and if the Orange Army decides to raise the paddle, he could be a valuable addition to their lineup.

Disclaimer: The predictions in this article are based on AI analysis and are purely speculative. They are for entertainment and informational purposes only. The predicted team and bid price for Venkatesh Iyer in IPL 2026 may not reflect actual outcomes, and CricTracker is not responsible for any discrepancies.