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

2. Kusal Mendis

Despite being a seasoned international, Kusal Mendis is yet to make a significant mark in the IPL. He made his debut last season when Gujarat Titans signed him as a replacement for Jos Buttler during the playoffs, becoming the first overseas player to debut in an IPL playoff match. Teams continue to place a premium on multi-skill overseas players, and wicketkeeper-batters remain in steady demand. Mendis offers flexibility across the top order while providing cover behind the stumps, making him a useful
squad option in a long tournament.

Mendis, who has a base price of INR 75 lakh, averages 25.4 in T20Is with a strike-rate of 130.2. A naturally fluent stroke-maker, inconsistency has been his biggest hurdle. Whether teams consider him worth the investment remains to be seen. KKR, in search of a wicketkeeper-batter and a top-order option, could be a natural fit. Delhi Capitals may also view him as a solid overseas pick for their top order.