One of the most-awaited IPL 2026 mini auction got over on Tuesday, December 16, bringing a mix of reactions for the fans. While people were keeping an eye on the top-rated players, some of the underrated and rising talents from the Indian domestic circuit and a few of the overseas players have grabbed the limelight. Hard work never goes in vain–a phrase that keeps the athletes mentally strong and prepared for the upcoming challenges. This proved right when IPL franchises brought a bidding war for some of the upcoming talents, giving a global stage to showcase their talent on a bigger platform. In this article, we will delve into some of the talents who cemented their place in iconic franchises through their hard work and dedication. Prashant Veer Prashant Veer, 20, a rising Indian uncapped talent, made history when he was sold to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for an enormous amount of INR 14.2 crores. It was the highest paid amount for any uncapped player in the history of the Indian Premier League. After Ravindra Jadjeja’s departure, CSK have made up their mind to find an ideal replacement for the legendary all-rounder. Veer, who already demonstrated his ability to perform with both bat and ball in the recent SMAT and UPT20 league, will have a big responsibility in the upcoming season. Aquib Nabi Aquib Nabi, 26, made a powerful impact in the recently concluded IPL 2026 mini auction. Delhi Capitals acquired his services for INR 8.4 crore, soaring and making a statement for the rising talents from the Jammu and Kashmir region. Nabi, who has been very impactful with his pace, length and most importantly, his ability to swing the ball. His recent performances in the Ranji Trophy tournament, SMAT, and Duleep Trophy have been impressive. Also Read: IPL 2026: Full squads of 10 teams post Mini Auction Mangesh Yadav Mangesh Yadav, a 26-year-old left-arm pacer, made headlines in the auction when he was sold to the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for a whopping price of INR 5.20 crores. He is known for his all-round ability, especially for his lethal left-arm pace. Yadav, who plays domestic cricket from Madhya Pradesh, is known for exploiting the batters with his left-arm angle. Salil Arora Salil Arora is a prominent young rising wicket-keeper talent from Haryana. His ability to play aggressive knocks is what makes him special. He is one of the best players of pace in the middle order. At the IPL 2026 mini auction, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) bought his services for INR 1.50 crore, a five-times jump from his base price of ₹30 lakh. His consistent domestic performances, especially in SMAT, bagged this amount for him, giving him an opportunity to showcase his keeping talent along with his calm batting skills. Akeal Hosein Akeal Hosein needs no introduction when it comes to T20 cricket. He has been a sure-shot game-changing player for every franchise he has played for. He was bought by CSK at his base price of INR 2 crore. Hosein, who hails from the West Indies, is known for his left-arm orthodox and has been very effective in the powerplay as a spin bowler. He can deliver some good knocks in the lower order in the batting, as he is capable of hitting some power-packed sixes. Cooper Connolly Cooper Connolly is another rising talent from the Australian team. During the mini auction, Punjab Kings secured the services of Cooper for INR 3 crore with a strategic plan. The young Australian all-rounder brings all-rounder skills to the team, who can contribute as a solid middle-order hitter and can also contribute as a reliable slow left-arm spinner.