The unpredictable nature of IPL auction was never more apparent than in the case of English all-rounder Liam Livingstone.
After the surprising setback of going unsold during the initial marquee sets, the explosive batsman returned in the accelerated round to ignite a ferocious bidding war, ultimately landing with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) for a massive ₹13 crore.
Livingstone’s failure to find a buyer in the first round had sent ripples of shock through the auction room, despite his proven reputation as one of T20 cricket’s most powerful hitters and a valuable dual-spin bowling option.
However, the momentary lull proved to be advantageous for franchises with deeper pockets remaining later in the day.
#SunrisersHyderabad outbid #LSG in a fierce bidding battle to bring in power-hitter Liam Livingstone for 13 Cr! 🧡💥
Big boost to Sunrisers Hyderabad⚡🔥#TATAIPLAuction 2026 | LIVE NOW 👉 https://t.co/NZ92stKxPU pic.twitter.com/DoSQcDSNVc
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) December 16, 2025
The second time his name was called, the pursuit was immediate and aggressive. The contest quickly narrowed down to a thrilling battle between SRH, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).
LSG showed immense desire to acquire the multi-skilled player, driving price past the ₹10 crore mark, but their purse constraints eventually proved fatal. Having exhausted a significant portion of their funds earlier, LSG were forced to withdraw, leaving path clear for SRH.
For Sunrisers Hyderabad, this ₹13 crore acquisition is a strategic triumph. They have successfully added a world-class finisher to their batting lineup.
Livingstone’s overall IPL career statistics – over 1,000 runs at a phenomenal strike rate exceeding 158 – confirm his high-impact value. His ability to bowl both leg-spin and off-spin also provides the tactical flexibility that SRH’s coaching staff, led by head coach Daniel Vettori, highly prioritizes.
SRH’s key buys in IPL 2026 Auction (so far)
Liam Livingstone – ₹13.00 Crore
Shivam Mavi – ₹75 Lakh
Salil Arora – ₹1.50 Crore
Shivang Kumar – ₹30 Lakh
Sakib Hussain – ₹30 Lakh
Onkar Tarmale – ₹30 Lakh
Amit Kumar – ₹30 Lakh
Praful Hinge – ₹30 Lakh
Krains Fuletra – ₹30 Lakh
