Which team is Jamie Smith playing for in IPL 2026? Explained

England wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith will not be playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026as he went unsold at the auction.

Despite his rising stature in international cricket, especially in the Test format, no franchise picked Smith during the IPL 2026 auction held in Abu Dhabi. The 24-year-old had entered the auction with a base price of Rs 2 crorehoping to secure his maiden IPL contract, but did not attract any bids.

Why did Jamie Smith go unsold?

Jamie Smith’s reputation has largely been built in red-ball cricketwhere he has impressed with his technique, temperament, and scoring rate. While his white-ball potential is acknowledged, franchises appeared cautious, possibly due to limited exposure in high-pressure T20 leagues and competition for overseas slots dominated by established IPL performers.

Jamie Smith’s T20 record

Smith has played 97 T20 matchesscoring 1,687 runs at an average of 24.44 and a healthy strike rate of 144.31including nine half-centuries. He is known for batting in the top order and making good use of the powerplay.

At the international level, Smith has featured in five T20Is for Englandscoring 130 runs at an impressive strike rate of 194.02though the sample size remains small.

Strong credentials in Test cricket

Smith’s strongest case comes from Test cricket. Earlier this year, he became the joint-fastest wicketkeeper to reach 1,000 Test runsachieving the milestone in just 21 innings. He reached the mark in 1,303 ballsunderlining his attacking instincts even in the longest format. His current Test tally stands at 1,127 runsaveraging 43.34 with a strike rate of 75.68.

What’s next for Jamie Smith?

While IPL 2026 will pass without Jamie Smith’s involvement, his performances for England — particularly in Tests and limited opportunities in white-ball cricket — could keep him on franchises’ radar for future seasons. A strong run in T20 leagues outside India or an extended run in England’s white-ball setup may improve his chances ahead of upcoming IPL editions.

For now, Jamie Smith remains without an IPL team for 2026despite being one of England’s most promising wicketkeeper-batters.