IPL Auction Strategy: Why smart teams avoid bidding wars?

The Indian Premier League (IPL) mini-auction for the 2026 season is fast approaching, scheduled for December 16 in Abu Dhabi. As always, every franchise will be analysing its approach to the auction in an attempt to build a strong, competitive squad for the upcoming edition and keep themselves in contention for the coveted trophy.

While several teams adopt aggressive bidding tactics, a few franchises follow what is known as the silent strategy: a calculated, disciplined approach that revolves around avoiding bidding wars. In many cases, winning a bidding war means overpaying, which can disrupt squad balance and undermine long-term planning. Most teams that use this strategy prioritise value and sustainability over short-term gains.

The silent strategy revolves around two key objectives: staying within budget and ensuring a player’s price aligns with their true on-field value. One of the biggest risks during a bidding war is the well-known Winner’s Curse, where the team that secures a player ends up paying far more than the player’s actual worth. This can lead to financial strain and limit future strategic flexibility.

A fundamental element of the silent strategy is strict adherence to a pre-determined player valuation. Teams decide an internal maximum price for each target and refuse to exceed it, regardless of how competitive the bidding becomes. Overspending on one marquee player can drain resources that might otherwise be used to secure multiple cost-effective options that collectively strengthen the squad.

Franchises that avoid bidding wars often prioritise finding players who seamlessly fit their system, culture, and long-term vision rather than being merely big names. This approach emphasises rational decision-making, sustainability, and consistent squad development. While these teams may miss out on high-profile talent, they believe that maintaining financial discipline and acquiring value-for-money players ultimately leads to a more stable and competitive lineup.

In the IPL, franchises like Chennai Super Kings, Mumbai Indians, and Rajasthan Royals have frequently adopted this method, securing quality players without excessive spending. With the 2026 mini-auction nearing, several teams could once again rely on the silent strategy to build a balanced and efficient squad.