Three Teams Likely to Target Steve Smith in the IPL 2026 Mini-Auction
Steve Smith, an Australian cricketing star player who last played in IPL 2021 is pictured here for IPL 2026 Mini-Auction. After not being bought in IPL 2025 where he was available for Rs. 2 Crores, Steve Smith has now registered himself for IPL 2026 at that same base price once again.
It will also be an incredibly competitive auction with 1355 players registered to be Auctioned, however with Smith's return it creates additional interest for franchises looking for an experienced leader with the adage of being a calming influence in the middle-order batting position. Several franchises are transitioning and therefore looking for an experienced player like Smith.
Delhi Capitals
Delhi Capitals finished IPL 2025 in fifth position and failed to qualify for the playoffs with 7 wins in 14 matches. Following the exit of Rishabh Pant, Axar Patel was appointed full-time captain, but the team failed to maintain this momentum throughout the season. Although Axar Patel remains in the mix for the 2026 squad, DC looks likely to appoint a new captain for IPL 2026.
Delhi Capitals are reported to have an interest in KL Rahul; however with experienced players like Faf du Plessis opting out of the 2026 season, the franchise will be looking for someone with experience, and Steve Smith is a perfect fit for their vision. Smith's calm personality and experience in high-pressure situations makes him a valuable asset for the Delhi Capitals.
Rajasthan Royals
The Rajasthan Royals (RR) are also changing their captain following the trade of Sanju Samson. During the last season, Riyan Parag had some opportunities to captain RR; however, he won just 2 of the 8 matches he led. While the franchise will consider Parag, Dhruv Jurel and Yashasvi Jaiswal as future leaders, they will not be able to provide long-term captaincy experience. Although RR acquired Ravindra Jadeja in a trade, his captaincy experience with CSK is poor, and therefore, Steve Smith has to be at the top of RR's potential list of captains.
Kolkata Knight Riders
The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) had a horrible 2025 IPL season, finishing 8th under Ajinkya Rahane's captaincy after winning the 2024 title under Shreyas Iyer's captaincy. Their inability to make the right choices has been detrimental to them, along with the decision to let go of Shreyas Iyer before the season began, affecting their overall combination.
In addition, KKR spent ₹23.75 crore on Venkatesh Iyer in the 2025 mega auction, however, his inability to perform led to KKR releasing him prior to the auction. With doubts regarding leadership, Steve Smith would be a logical choice. Smith could be the captain of a franchise in desperate need of a middle-order stable presence and will help manage a combination of veteran players and younger players.
