Iyer, currently sidelined due to a spleen injury, is expected to head the Punjab Kings’ delegation, while uncertainties remain over head coach Ricky Ponting’s participation.
Iyer sustained the injury after completing a spectacular catch to dismiss Australian batter Alex Carey during India’s recent tour Down Under, which ruled him out of the ODI series against South Africa. Despite this setback, he is set to represent the Kings at the mini auction, with Ponting likely to miss the event due to commentary commitments for the ongoing Ashes series with the Seven Network.
The Punjab Kings have named Iyer among their eight-member delegation for the auction, confirming his leadership role. Under Iyer, Punjab Kings had a stellar IPL 2025 campaign, reaching the final and earning acclaim for their bold and aggressive play, though they fell short against RCB.
In contrast, Daniel Vettori, assistant coach of the Australian men’s team, has reportedly received Cricket Australia’s approval to attend the mini auction for Sunrisers Hyderabad, despite his Ashes duties.
The IPL 2026 mini auction is scheduled for December 16 in Abu Dhabi, starting at 2:30 PM IST.
