The IPL 2026 auction delivered one of its biggest headline moments when Cameron Green created history in Abu Dhabi. The Australian all rounder was signed by Kolkata Knight Riders for a staggering ₹25.20 crore, making him the most expensive overseas player ever in IPL auction history. The bidding reflected not just Green’s ability, but also KKR’s intent to build a powerful core around proven match winners. With this deal, Green also became the third costliest player overall in IPL auction history, placing him among the elite names of the league.
Cameron Green Record Breaking IPL 2026 Auction Move to KKR:
Cameron Green entered the IPL 2026 auction with a base price of ₹2 crore. What followed was an intense bidding war that quickly escalated beyond expectations. Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals initially drove the price upward, before Rajasthan exited once the bid touched ₹13 crore.
At that stage, Chennai Super Kings stepped in, setting up a high profile duel with KKR. With both teams holding the biggest purses at the auction, the bidding surged rapidly. Green became the first player of the evening to cross the ₹20 crore mark. After multiple pauses and strategy discussions, KKR sealed the deal at ₹25.20 crore, breaking all previous overseas auction records. Final winning bid reached ₹25.20 crore
Why Cameron Green Became the Costliest Overseas Player?
Cameron Green’s price was driven by rare all round value. He offers power hitting, seam bowling, and athletic fielding, making him a three dimensional player. His height and reach allow him to clear boundaries with ease, while his bowling adds balance to any XI.
By crossing ₹25 crore, Green surpassed Mitchell Starc’s previous overseas record of ₹24.75 crore set at the IPL 2024 auction. Overall, only Rishabh Pant at ₹27 crore and Shreyas Iyer at ₹26.75 crore have gone for higher prices in IPL auction history.
- Offers both batting and bowling match impact
- Surpassed Mitchell Starc overseas auction record
- Became third costliest IPL auction buy overall
- Fits modern T20 demand for multi skill players
Cameron Green IPL Salary Rules:
Despite the ₹25.20 crore winning bid, Cameron Green will not receive the full amount. As per IPL regulations, overseas players are capped at a maximum salary of ₹18 crore per season. Accordingly, Green will earn ₹18 crore for IPL 2026.
- Overseas player salary cap fixed at ₹18 crore
- Green will receive ₹18 crore for IPL 2026
- Remaining ₹7.20 crore goes to player welfare
- Rule applies uniformly to all overseas signings
The remaining ₹7.20 crore will be allocated towards player welfare and development initiatives. This rule ensures competitive balance while allowing franchises to bid freely during auctions.
Cameron Green IPL Performance:
Cameron Green brings solid IPL experience into the KKR setup. He last played in IPL 2024 for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, where he contributed with both bat and ball. Across his IPL career so far, Green has been a consistent performer rather than a flashy one.
| Category | Record |
| IPL Matches Played | 29 |
| Total Runs | 707 |
| Batting Strike Rate | 143.25 |
| Wickets Taken | 16 |
| Bowling Economy | 8.61 |
| Previous Teams | Mumbai Indians, RCB |
How Cameron Green Fits Into KKR Team Strategy?
Kolkata Knight Riders see Cameron Green as a core player rather than a short term signing. His presence allows KKR to strengthen both batting depth and bowling options. Green can bat in the top or middle order and still provide overs with the ball.
KKR entered the auction with the biggest purse of ₹64.30 crore, showing clear planning. Green’s versatility gives the team flexibility in overseas combinations and balance across departments, especially on pitches like Eden Gardens that reward power hitters.
Cameron Green Message After Joining KKR:
Soon after completing the move, Green shared a video message for KKR fans, which was posted by the franchise in instagram.
“Hey KKR fans, it’s Cam Green here. I’m so excited to be part of Kolkata for this year’s IPL, to get down to the Eden Gardens, get used to the atmosphere and hope it’s a great year for us. So, see you soon. Ami KKR,” Green said.
For KKR fans that reflected genuine excitement and gratitude. He spoke about playing at Eden Gardens, embracing the Kolkata atmosphere, and contributing to a strong team culture.
Conclusion:
Cameron Green’s ₹25.20 crore move to Kolkata Knight Riders will be remembered as a landmark IPL auction moment. It highlighted KKR’s ambition and Green’s rising value in world cricket. While salary rules limit his earnings, the statement made by this signing goes far beyond numbers. For KKR, Green represents balance, power, and long term vision. For Green, IPL 2026 offers a stage to justify the trust placed in him.
FAQs:
Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings were the main teams competing with KKR.
IPL rules cap overseas player salaries at ₹18 crore per season.
Mitchell Starc held the record at ₹24.75 crore before Green surpassed it.
He last featured in IPL 2024 while representing Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
His ability to contribute with both bat and ball gives KKR greater flexibility.
Kiran is a cricket analyst and writer with strong expertise in the Indian Premier League and modern cricket. He closely follows match situations, player performances, team strategies, and season trends to deliver clear and accurate insights. Passionate about the game, Kiran enjoys exploring emerging talents, tracking auction movements, and sharing timely updates related to IPL and competitive cricket.
