Domestic players who impressed in Ranji Trophy and could get IPL 2026 contract

Published - 12 Nov 2025, 17:00 IST | Updated - 12 Nov 2025, 00:17 IST

With the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini-auction nearing its date, domestic cricketers across India are making strong performances in the ongoing Ranji Trophy season. Every year, the IPL auction gives new talents a chance to make it big, and 2026 could be the same.

Several players who have impressed with consistent performances in domestic cricket are likely to attract bidders as franchises look to strengthen their Indian core. Teams with limited purse value or looking for budget-friendly Indian options will closely monitor these performances. As the retention deadline nears and trade talks making headlines, the domestic circuit’s finest performers will hope their red-ball brilliance hands them lucrative IPL contracts.

Karnataka skipper Mayank Agarwal has once again increased his IPL prospects after a string of impressive performances in domestic cricket. The opener, who joined Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) mid-season in IPL 2025 as Devdutt Padikkal’s replacement, played an important role in helping the franchise clinch its maiden IPL title.

In four matches, Agarwal scored 95 runs at a strike rate of 148.43, including an unbeaten 41 off 23 balls against Lucknow Super Giants and a crucial 24-run cameo in the final against Punjab Kings. His strong domestic form, including a Ranji Trophy century against Maharashtra and a recent 175 for Yorkshire, has further strengthened his case ahead of the IPL 2026 auction. With teams expected to revamp their top order, the right-hander could be a valuable addition to their batting lineup.