As the countdown to IPL2026 Bidding picks up, cricket expert and former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has revealed his list of five players who he believes will attract strong interest from franchises. As teams prepare to rebuild and restructure, Pathan’s selections are focusing heavily on fast bowling – a commodity increasingly dominating T20 cricket. His roster also includes a high-impact, versatile player who could become one of the biggest talking points of the auction.
Star Indian bowler leads national pacer category
Pathan’s first choice was the Indian fast bowler. Deep Akashwho he praised for his impressive control and prowess on the new ball. Speaking on Featured sportsPathan explained that the right-arm quick possesses a straight seam stance, late swing and quick release – all of which make him a dangerous bowler in the powerplay.
He suggested that Sunrisers Hyderabad, who recently left Mohammed Shamicould be part of the teams keen to secure Akash Deep. Pathan pointed out that any franchise looking for a reliable Indian fast bowler with strong new-ball skills will likely be watching him closely during the auction.
“If I talk about Akash Deep, his seam is very straight. If a team can use his skills with the new ball, he can be beneficial as he is excellent with the new ball. The way his deliveries flow and come on the bat, it comes well. He also generates that late movement, as we saw in England. Akash Deep’s quality lies in the new ball. I think SunRisers Hyderabad are lacking Indian fast bowlers, they have also released Mohammed Shami, for so they can look for it.” Pathan said on Star Sports.
Pathan also included Akash Madhwal in his five-player watchlist, praising his rapid rise in T20 cricket and his ability to handle pressure at the death. Known for his accurate yorkers and disciplined bowling in critical moments, Madhwal has already shown his temperament in high-stakes IPL matches.
The Australian all-rounder is expected to attract huge attention
Among the all-rounders, Pathan’s most notable choice was the Australian Cameron Greenpredicting that teams will do anything for him despite scholarship constraints. Calling him a rare entity in world cricket, Pathan noted Green’s high arm action, natural bounce, ability to swing the ball and impact with the bat.
Green prefers to bat at the top but also offers flexibility in the middle order – a combination that makes him a strategic asset. Pathan said all-rounders of his caliber are “rare by nature”, making the Australian one of the most valuable names ahead of the auction.
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The Pace duo should create a frenzy
Adding to his list, Pathan chose two overseas quicks known for their blazing speed – Anrich Nortje And Matheesha Pathirana – both of which he says will be in high demand.
Nortje, with his ability to regularly reach speeds in excess of 150 kmph, brings raw intimidation and wicket-taking ability to all phases of the innings. Pathan noted that Nortje’s experience in global T20 leagues makes him an immediate impact in signing for any team looking for an attack bowler.
Pathirana, known as “Baby Malinga” due to his rebellious action, has built a reputation as a deadly specialist in death. His ability to deliver precise Yorkers and unsettle hitters with deceptive angles places him among the most exciting young point guards available. Pathan believes his unique skill set will spark strong competition among franchises.
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