IPL 2026: 5 Batters MI might target in mini-auction

Mumbai Indians (MI) had an impressive IPL 2025 campaign. After finishing fourth in the group stage (eight wins in 14 games, 16 points), they beat Gujarat Titans (GT) in the Eliminator but fell short in Qualifier 2 against the eventual runners-up, Punjab Kings (PBKS). 

Considering MI’s legacy and the high standards they have set, fans will want to see them lift a record sixth IPL title in 2026. To work towards that, MI have released eight players. Ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction, they already have 20 players—17 retained and three traded in - Mayank Markande from Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Sherfane Rutherford from Gujarat Titans (GT), and Shardul Thakur from Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). 

They will enter the auction with a purse of Rs. 2.75 crore and five slots to fill, including one overseas slot. With such limited funds, MI are expected to look mainly for back-up options.

Here are the 5 batters MI might target in the IPL 2026 mini-auction

1. Mayank Agarwal

Mayank Agarwal joined Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) as an injury replacement for Devdutt Padikkal in IPL 2025. He played four matches and scored 95 runs, helping RCB win their maiden IPL title. With 131 IPL matches of experience, he could be a strong back-up option for MI, able to bat in both the top and middle order if required.

2. Atharva Taide

The 25-year-old has featured in three IPL seasons, playing for Punjab Kings (PBKS) in 2023 and 2024. Last season, he was with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) but played only one match, scoring 13. Given his potential and his ability to bowl left-arm orthodox spin, MI might consider him a useful back-up option.

3. Luvnith Sisodia

This 25-year-old wicketkeeper-batter is regarded as an exciting talent in the Indian domestic circuit. Luvnith Sisodia has shown strong power-hitting in tournaments like the Maharaja Trophy (Karnataka Premier League). 

Although he has been part of RCB (2022) and KKR (2025), he is yet to make his IPL debut. MI are known for identifying young prospects and backing them with opportunities, so Sisodia could be a future-focused pick even if he does not feature much next season.

4. Dasun Shanaka

With only one overseas slot left, MI might go for an overseas all-rounder who can finish games with the bat. Sri Lanka’s Dasun Shanaka could be available at a lower price than other options. 

He can also bowl seamers and provide swing if conditions allow. Shanaka has played only one IPL season so far, with GT in 2023, where he played three matches, scored 26 runs and did not bowl, but his all-round potential suits MI’s needs.

5. Andre Siddarth

This 2006-born Tamil Nadu batter is another promising young option. Nineteen-year-old Andre Siddarth is known for his solid technique and aggressive but controlled batting style. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) released him after he did not get game time. 

In IPL 2025, CSK got him at Rs. 30 Lakhs. MI’s track record with grooming youngsters makes him a possible long-term pick rather than someone for immediate impact in 2026.

Stay updated with the latest cricket news, match insights, and exclusive updates at BetBarter and download the BetBarter app to start betting today!