CSK, KKR Ignored as R. Ashwin Names His Top 4 IPL 2026 Teams After Auction

IPL 2026: The mini auction took place earlier in the week in Abu Dhabi and it was a heated affair at the bidding. Now that the auction is over and the teams have been finalised, former India cricketer R. Ashwin has made a massive prediction. Ashwin has picked his top four teams. His prediction is rather bold as he left out Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders, two of the most successful sides in the history of the league. 

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Ashwin Picks Top-4

Mumbai Indians: Ashwin's first choice was Mumbai Indians. Ashwin reckons MI maintained their core and that was a massive reason why they were his first choice. The Mumbai franchise also managed to get back Quinton de Kock for a steal at Rs 1 Cr. 

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Ashwin picked the defending champions as his second choice to make the final four in IPL 2026. While speaking of RCB, Ashwin also mentioned Josh Hazlewood and Yash Dayal. He reckons for RCB to do well, Hazlewood and Dayal would have to do well. 

Punjab Kings: The former CSK player, Ashwin, reckoned the runner-up from 2025 will make the top four in 2026. Ashwin reckoned PBKS would do well as they held onto their core and made solid additions like Cooper Connolly and Ben Dwarshius. 

Rajasthan Royals: The final side he backed that Ashwin believes would make the final four is Rajasthan Royals. As per Ashwin, RR are a ‘mighty good side’. Now that they have got Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran in their ranks, Ashwin is certain RR would fare well. 

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When Will IPL 2026 Start? 

The 19th season of the IPL would start from March 26 and end on May 31.