IPL 2026 Auction: Veteran English Keeper Bairstow Registers with INR 1 Cr

Jonny Bairstow, a seasoned English wicketkeeper-batter, has officially registered for the upcoming IPL 2026 auction, slated for December 16 in Abu Dhabi. He has set his base price at INR 1 crore, making him a notable name for franchises looking to strengthen their squads. Bairstow brings a formidable international career record, having represented England in 100 Tests, 107 ODIs, and 80 T20Is, accumulating over 11,000 runs. His prowess in T20 cricket is highlighted by a strike rate of 139.17 and over 6,000 runs in 248 matches.

Across various T20 leagues and the IPL, Bairstow has consistently performed, amassing 1,674 runs in 52 IPL games at a strike rate of 146.07. His experience includes opening the batting and providing stability, as demonstrated by his recent performances. With teams like Kolkata Knight Riders seeking wicketkeeping reinforcements after releasing Quinton de Kock and Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Bairstow's dual role as an opener and keeper makes him an attractive prospect. The Knight Riders, with the highest purse, have the flexibility to pursue him.

Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings are also potential contenders. MI, needing a stable keeper and having an inexperienced backup, might consider Bairstow despite a lower purse. PBKS, remembering his unbeaten century in a record chase, could see him as a valuable addition, especially after releasing Josh Inglis. Bairstow's reliability behind the stumps, with 16 stumpings and 131 catches in T20s, further enhances his appeal to franchises seeking experience and a full-term player.