Kolkata Knight Riders delivered the definitive moment of the IPL auction by securing Australian powerhouse Cameron Green for a staggering INR 25.20 crore. This monumental acquisition marks the third-highest price in the league’s history and establishes Green as the most expensive overseas player ever. Far from a desperate or reactionary move, this was a masterfully timed strategic pivot designed to secure the franchise’s post-Andre Russell future.
The bidding began modestly, with Green entering at a base price of INR 2.00 crore. Initial interest from Mumbai Indians and Rajasthan Royals saw the price steadily climb past the INR 2.50 crore mark. However, the atmosphere in the room shifted instantly once KKR raised their paddle.
While Mumbai remained resilient, and Rajasthan pushed the valuation toward INR 13 crore, the closing stages devolved into a high-stakes, two-way shootout between Chennai Super Kings and KKR.
The Record-Breaking Drama of the IPL Auction for Cameron Green
In a marathon battle consisting of 117 individual bids, the tension peaked when CSK held the lead at INR 25.00 crore. KKR, having identified Green as their primary target long before the event, refused to back down. With a final, decisive bid of INR 25.20 crore, they secured the all-rounder, officially bringing him into the purple and gold camp.
The cricketing logic behind such a massive investment is sound. For a decade, Andre Russell has been the cornerstone of KKR’s tactical setup, providing explosive middle-order hitting and death-bowling utility. Green represents a more sustainable, long-term evolution of that role. Unlike Russell, Green is a versatile top-order batter who can anchor an innings or accelerate against both pace and spin.
Defensively, his ability to deliver four overs of steep bounce and hard lengths provides KKR with the tactical flexibility they need on varied Indian pitches. By acting before Russell’s impact faded, KKR showed remarkable foresight. They identified a rare scarcity in the market and paid the premium to ensure their competitive edge remains intact for years to come.
