Akash Ambani’s reaction at the IPL 2026 mini auction summed up the dire purse situation for Mumbai Indians (MI). Cameron Green was sold to Kolkata Knight Riders for a whopping ₹25.2 crore, making him the most expensive overseas player in IPL auction history. MI initially bid for Green at his base price of ₹2 crore but had to pull out due to their limited purse of ₹2.6 crore. Ambani’s gesture of raising his hand and giving a thumbs-up signified their withdrawal from the bidding war. Despite Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings also showing interest, KKR emerged as the highest bidder. With a purse of ₹64.3 crore, KKR outbid CSK to secure Green for ₹25.2 crore. The IPL rules capped Green’s earnings at ₹18 crore, with the remaining amount allocated towards player welfare. Green had previously played for MI and Royal Challengers Bangalore, with MI paying ₹17.5 crore for him in 2023. This auction highlighted the financial constraints faced by some franchises, leading to strategic decisions like MI’s withdrawal from the race for Cameron Green.
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