IPL 2026 Auction: KKR Signs Cameron Green and Matheesha Pathirana in Big Deals. The IPL 2026 auction is going with a lot of surprises. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) went all out to buy two overseas players.
The auction’s main move was when KKR paid ₹25.20 crore for Cameron Green, one of the costliest overseas players in the history of the IPL auction. There was a lot of competition among the franchises for the Australian all-rounder, and it was only after KKR’s determination that they were able to get his signature. Green was one of the best all-rounders available in this auction. This made him attractive to KKR, who were determined to have him.
In the last year, Green has consistently performed well in T20 cricket, and he has been at the top and in the middle while bowling too. He is most likely to fill the space of Andre Russell. KKR now has the necessary balance. They would be able to change their combinations and strategies.
Bags Matheesha Pathirana for 18 crores
KKR’s spending spree extended with the signing of Matheesha Pathirana for ₹18 crore, who is a fast bowler from Sri Lanka. Last year, he played for CSK. The 20-year-old, with his unique bowling style, is being compared to Malinga and is becoming one of the most feared young bowlers in T20 cricket. His price tag reflects the general tendency for teams to pay a premium for effective death-over bowlers in the modern game.
Pathirana’s entry has significantly enhanced KKR’s bowling unit, particularly in the death overs, an aspect that often determines the outcome of close matches in the IPL. The Sri Lankan speedster’s ability to remain cool and pick wickets is what makes him a great asset to the team.
Also Read: Indian Selectors Closely Monitoring Vaibhav Suryavanshi as National Call-Up Nears
With the acquisitions of Cameron Green and Matheesha Pathirana, KKR has not only sent a strong hint to the league but also to the franchises. The team is looking not only to rebuild itself but to go over the top, mixing established international quality and the potential match-winners. The clock is ticking towards IPL 2026, and these big-name signings will have to live up to the highest expectations since they will be at the heart of KKR’s ambition to grab another IPL crown.