IPL 2026 Auction: Top five Sri Lankan players to watch out for

From Sanath Jayasuriya’s fearless stroke play to Lasith Malinga’s toe-crushing yorkers, and the calm leadership of Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene, Sri Lankan cricketers have long left an indelible mark on the Indian Premier League. That proud legacy continues to evolve, with the new generation led by the likes of Matheesha Pathirana and Wanindu Hasaranga, carrying the island’s
IPL story forward with flair and fire.

As in previous years, the IPL 2026 season promises its trademark extravagance, beginning with the much-anticipated IPL 2026 auction in Abu Dhabi on December 16. A total of 359 players will go under the hammer, with 77 slots available; including 31 overseas positions. Kolkata Knight Riders head into the auction with the largest squad openings (13), followed by Sunrisers Hyderabad with ten.

Ahead of the auction, the Sri Lankan players, Kamindu Mendis, Eshan Malinga, Nuwan Thushara and Dushmantha Chameera have already been retained by their respective franchises. With twelve more players from the island nation shortlisted for the IPL 2026 auction, CricTracker has a closer look at the top five Sri Lankan players to watch, who are expected to attract strong interest when the bidding begins.

Here are top 5 Sri Lankan players to watch out for at IPL 2026 Auction

5. Matheesha Pathirana

Once Chennai Super Kings’ go-to weapon at the death, Matheesha Pathirana enters the auction with a base price of INR 2 crore after a below-par 2025 season that led to his release. Injury concerns and inconsistent form may worry some teams, but everyone knows how dangerous he can be when he hits his rhythm, especially with those trademark yorkers. In 32 IPL matches, Pathirana has claimed 47 wickets at an economy rate under nine; proof of the impact he can make.

With the impact player rule placing greater emphasis on specialist death bowlers, franchises are actively hunting for pace options who can close out innings. Kolkata Knight Riders are widely tipped to target the young fast bowler and head into the auction with a hefty purse of INR 64.30 crore, giving them the flexibility to go hard at the bidding. Sunrisers Hyderabad and Lucknow Super Giants are also likely to be in the mix as they look to strengthen their death-bowling options. Chennai Super Kings, given their familiarity with his skill set, may keep a close watch on proceedings as well.