The IPL 2026 auction is shaping up to be one of the most thrilling and unpredictable player markets we have seen. With teams eager to bolster their rosters after making several retentions, one area that always catches the eye is bowling all-rounders. These players bring balance, flexibility, and depth to any T20 team. A player who can bowl four overs and chip in with crucial runs down the order is truly a gem for any IPL franchise. This year, there are a few names that might not be the biggest stars, but they have the potential to be real steals players who offer value than what they cost. These all-rounders come with experience, versatility, and the ability to turn matches around, which can be a game-changer in a lengthy tournament like the IPL. Let’s dive into a closer look at five bowling all-rounders who could turn out to be fantastic bargains in the IPL 2026 auction. Akeal Hosein: The Smart, Experienced T20 Specialist Akeal Hosein has quietly carved out a solid reputation in T20 leagues worldwide. With his clever left-arm spin, he truly gets the nuances of modern T20 cricket. What sets him apart is his knack for bowling in every phase of the innings whether it is the powerplay, the middle overs, or even the death overs if needed. In T20 cricket, controlling the run rate during the powerplay is a rare skill, and Hosein excels at it. He cleverly mixes his pace, utilizes angles effectively, and forces batters into making mistakes. With 237 wickets in T20 cricket and over 1096 runs, he is not just a bowler who comes in for a few overs and leaves. He can also contribute valuable runs down the order. Franchises on the lookout for a dependable, economical, and versatile bowler will definitely have him on their radar. Given his extensive experience, he could easily turn out to be one of the most valuable low-cost signings of the season. Wanindu Hasaranga: A Proven Match-Winner Ready for a Comeback Wanindu Hasaranga faced a challenging season with the Rajasthan Royals, leading the franchise to part ways with him. He possesses the unique ability to shift the momentum of a match with just one spell. His variations, sharp googly, and aggressive mindset make him one of the most formidable spin bowlers out there. Even though he’s had a recent slump in form, his overall stats are impressive: 332 wickets in T20 cricket and 2463 runs a significant contribution for any all-rounder. Hasaranga’s true value lies not just in his wicket-taking ability but also in his knack for breaking partnerships at critical moments. When he’s in rhythm, he can completely dominate the middle overs. Plus, his batting adds another dimension to his game. He can hit boundaries, rotate the strike, and handle pressure situations. A franchise willing to take a small gamble on him might just land one of the smartest buys in the auction. Also Read | Ben Stokes - Salary, Income Sources & Net Worth - 2025 Michael Bracewell: The Calm, Flexible All-Rounder Michael Bracewell is an all-rounder who has the potential to become a key player for any IPL franchise. He is the kind of cricketer who brings a sense of stability, sharp thinking, and the knack for adapting to different match situations. With 96 T20 wickets and 3,455 runs under his belt, he’s got solid experience in both batting and bowling roles. What sets Bracewell apart is his versatility. He can bat in any position from starting the innings to finishing off games lower down the order. His ability to strike the ball cleanly makes him a threat against both spin and pace bowlers. On the bowling front, he delivers dependable off-spin that can disrupt partnerships or help control the scoring rate. He’s also had the opportunity to captain New Zealand on several occasions, showcasing his leadership skills and tactical insight. Teams in search of a reliable, well-rounded cricketer will definitely have their eyes on him. His calm demeanor and team-first mentality make him a low-risk, high-reward choice. Tom Curran: The Globally Experienced Utility Player Tom Curran has played in leagues around the globe, giving him a rich understanding of T20 conditions. Over the years, he’s honed both his batting and bowling skills, establishing himself as a true all-round option for any team. With 255 wickets and 2,396 runs to his name, he brings a wealth of experience and versatility. His bowling style is perfectly tailored for T20 cricket. He’s got effective slower balls, yorkers, variations, and a strong sense of the game. Curran knows how to perform under pressure and is often trusted with crucial overs during the death overs. His batting has also seen improvement, making him a dependable lower-order hitter who can clear the boundary when the situation calls for it. In the IPL 2026 auction, Curran might not be the flashiest name, but he fits the needs of many franchises. Teams looking for experienced all-rounders or someone who can step into various roles will find great value in him. Sean Abbott: The Energetic Australian Match-Winner Sean Abbott is one of those players who always gives his all on the field. A key player in the Australian white-ball squad, he brings a mix of energy, aggression, and reliability. With an impressive tally of 257 wickets and 954 runs, he’s a formidable bowling all-rounder. His bowling style is particularly effective on Indian pitches, especially when the ball starts to grip or bounce. What sets Abbott apart is his knack for taking crucial wickets whether it’s early in the innings or when he’s breaking up a growing partnership. His batting often flies under the radar. He has the ability to smash big sixes and shift the momentum in the lower order. For teams in search of someone who can make a significant impact in both bowling and batting, Abbott is an ideal choice. His experience in high-pressure situations makes him a reliable option. In the right franchise setting, Abbott could easily emerge as one of the standout players of the season.