IPL 2026: Here’s why Vijay Shankar chose to register as an uncapped player for the mini-auction

The inclusion of former India all-rounder Vijay Shankar in the uncapped players’ category for the IPL 2026 mini-auction has become one of the most unexpected talking points leading up to the December 16 event. Despite having previously represented India in both ODIs and T20Is, his reclassification has sparked considerable curiosity among fans and franchises alike.

Why Vijay Shankar decided to enter the IPL 2026 mini-auction as an uncapped player?

Shankar’s ability to list himself as an uncapped player, despite his international experience of 12 ODIs and 9 T20Is, is governed by an IPL regulation introduced ahead of the 2025 season. This rule specifically applies to Indian players and allows a previously capped international to be classified as uncapped if two conditions are met: Firstthe player must not have been featured in the starting XI for India across any format, Tests, ODIs, or T20Is, in the last five calendar years preceding the auction year; and Secondthe player must not hold a current BCCI central contract.

Shankar’s last appearance for the Indian national side was during the 2019 World Cup (Last ODI: June 2019, Last T20I: February 2019). By the time of the 2026 auction, he will be comfortably beyond the five-year cutoff, and having no central contract, he perfectly meets the criteria. This regulation was notably first applied to legends like MS Dhoni and veteran pacer Sandeep Sharmaenabling their retention at specific uncapped salary levels and establishing a clear precedent for Shankar’s current classification.

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IPL 2026 auction outlook and and Vijay Shankar’s financial appeal

Shankar enters the auction pool listed in the seventh set, which is dedicated to uncapped all-rounders, alongside other domestic names such as Kamlesh Nagarkoti and Mahipal Lomror. His base price of the minimum Rs 30 lakh is a critical factor in his appeal to franchises. While his recent form, including a modest campaign for Tripura in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy following his release by Chennai Super Kings (CSK)does not position him as a marquee signing, his low base price minimizes the risk for any potential buyer.

At 34 years old, his value now lies in his considerable experience in big-match IPL situations and his versatility as a right-handed batter who can bowl reliable medium pace, offering critical squad depth and balance. For teams looking to fill their roster with economical, experienced Indian all-rounders without impacting their budget significantly, Shankar represents an appealing, low-cost option. His uncapped status combined with his proven, albeit inconsistent, track record ensures he remains a fascinating and viable pick for the upcoming bidding war in Abu Dhabi.

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