The IPL 2026 season is set for strategic shifts, with franchises focusing on domestic talent and role-based squad building. The mini-auction saw significant investments in young Indian players, such as Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma by CSK, and a premium placed on Indian quicks. Kolkata Knight Riders made Cameron Green the most expensive all-rounder, though his salary was capped. This indicates a league-wide trend towards long-term sustainability and adaptability in player acquisition.