IPL 2026 Auction: 5 Teams Likely to Target Cooper Connolly

As the IPL 2026 mini-auction approaches, there is considerable hype surrounding teams' heads selections based on last season's offerings and the run up to the 2026 mega auction. This mini-auction opens an opportunity for franchises to address shortcomings by adding reliable all-rounders and fresh impactful talent.

5 franchises that can target Cooper Connolly in IPL 2026

1. Mumbai Indians (MI)

Mumbai Indians are constantly on the lookout for powerful all-rounders to fill the shoes of previous stars and bring some much-needed power to their middle order. As a left-hander, Connolly brings some balance to a batting order that is sometimes a bit too right-handed. He is also a useful spin bowler and an excellent fielder. Overall, Connolly fits the MI vision of building a squad of versatile, high-impact players who can be their core for the long haul.

2. Rajasthan Royals (RR)

The Rajasthan Royals typically seek out dynamic and younger overseas options that will add a combination of stability and power to their middle order. Recently, they have not had the finishing capabilities they’ve previously relied on and have been searching for that after parting ways with some players. Connolly has a natural high strike rate and aggressive batting approach, and is therefore a most suitable candidate. Additionally, his left-arm spinning will come in handy on spin favorable surfaces in Jaipur, providing RR an added level of depth and balance to their XI.

3. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)

RCB have tended to look for a foreign all-rounder who could potentially hit down the order in their team's middle order and provide extra over or two when needed, as their previous options have been sportingly inconsistent. Connolly, with his quick scoring and handy left-arm spin, fits the format and matches RCB well at the high-scoring Chinnaswamy Stadium. He could also enhance RCB's balance with his batting and build depth in the bowling department.

4. Gujarat Titans (GT)

The Gujarat Titans have frequently sought a dependable middle-order batsman to bolster what is a formidable top three, and Connolly meets this need. They require an adaptable player to balance the middle overs of the innings and can finish the innings explosively. Furthermore, Connolly is left-handed and slow left-arm orthodox, which can be a further tactical edge if the pitches are spin-friendly. Given their past history of backing young, high-upside players, GT may view Connolly as a player that can grow into a core member long-term.

5. Chennai Super Kings (CSK)

CSK has always taken a preference to developing their team around all-rounders, especially left-arm spinners who play well at Chepauk. Connolly would be a fit for CSK due to the fact he can bat anywhere from number five on, and bowl helpful spin if required to help their spinners. Connolly's calmness and composure under pressure, as shown in big BBL matches, aligns with CSK's philosophy of selecting players that are smart and perform well under the pump.

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