IPL 2026: 5 franchises that can target Jacob Duffy in the mini-auction

Jacob Duffythe New Zealand The fast-medium bowler has registered his name in the INR 2 Crore base price bracket for IPL 2026 Mini Auction. Duffy is in impressive form, recently taking a maiden five-wicket haul (5/34) in his first home Test match against the West Indies in Christchurch, putting New Zealand in a commanding position.

Known for his consistency, ability to swing the new ball and exceptional wicket-taking skills, Duffy boasts a T20I average of 17.06 with 53 wickets. He is particularly effective in difficult bowling at the death in New Zealand’s domestic T20 competition. His proven quality makes him a prime target for teams in need of a reliable fast bowler overseas. Duffy’s consistency, ability to swing the new ball and demonstrated ability to take wickets across formats make him a prime target for franchises looking for a reliable fast bowler overseas, willing to overlook his previous focus on red-ball cricket to get a player in such aggressive form.

IPL 2026: 5 franchises who could target Jacob Duffy in the Indian Premier League mini-auction

1. Mumbai Indians (MI)

Mumbai Indians He entered the auction with the smallest purse of INR 2.75 crore and only one significant overseas slot to fill. This limited budget forces them to target one high-impact outside player whose acquisition can be managed within their financial constraints. Given Duffy’s base price of Rs 2 crore, he is one of the few quality foreign players that MI can realistically target and afford. His recent five-wicket haul shows his class and ability to perform in high-stakes situations. He provides the new ball threat and reliability MI need to maximize their limited overseas budget, making him an instant and high-value addition.

2. Chennai Super Kings (CSK)

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) It has the second largest portfolio of Rs 43.40 crore and has four overseas slots to fill. After the launch of several rhythm devices, including Mathisha PatiranaCSK is in dire need of fast bowling reinforcements outside off. While they value deathmatch specialists, Duffy offers the valuable alternative of constant control and swing on the power play. CSK values ​​players who perform reliably in high-pressure matches and Duffy’s recent Test boosts his temperament in big matches. Their huge budget allows them to aggressively bid for Duffy to easily secure a reliable pace option to balance out the rebuilt bowling attack.

3. Rajasthan Royals (RR)

Rajasthan Royals (RR) You have a portfolio of Rs 16.05 crore and need to fill nine slots, including one important slot abroad. RR has released several key players and needs a reliable overseas fast bowler who can field their retained Indian players. With his right-arm fast and medium speed, Duffy provides the perfect combination of swing and control. His consistent wicket-taking ability and, more recently, his impressive performances in Test cricket make him an attractive option for a team looking for a specialist overseas bowler to bolster the core bowling unit, allowing all players to focus on their core roles.

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4. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)

RCB has a portfolio of INR 16.40 lakh crore and two overseas slots left to fill. After releasing players like Lungi Ngidi, RCB needs a quality overseas spinner to support their retained fast bowler, Josh Hazlewood. Duffy is an excellent candidate who offers a different style of right-arm fast-medium bowling that can thrive on the Indian pitches. His reputation as a reliable new ball player and his recent red-ball heroics suggest he is at the peak of his form. His reasonable starting price means RCB can secure him without committing a large portion of their budget, while keeping money available for their priority targets (such as Renuka Singh Thakur via RTM or the overseas all-rounder).

5. Delhi Capitals (DC)

Delhi Capitals (DC) You have a strong portfolio of Rs 21.80 crore and five overseas slots to fill. DC’s bowling attack has often lacked a quality outfielder who can deliver consistently without being too expensive. Duffy provides a strong and proven outside option to balance out the pace of their attack. His ability to take wickets and maintain a good economy rate would provide vital support to the Indians’ retained bowlers. DC will see Duffy’s current form as a golden opportunity to land a high-profile specialist bowler for a base price of ₹2 crore, adding much-needed depth and quality to their fast bowling unit.

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