With the IPL 2026 mini auction concluding on December 16, discussions around title contenders have gathered pace. Adding weight to the debate, veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has shared his prediction for the four teams most likely to reach the semifinals next season. Drawing from his experience as both a player and keen observer, Ashwin highlighted squad stability, smart auction strategies, and player availability as decisive elements in shaping his top four.
5 time champions lead Ravichandran Ashwin’s picks
Ashwin named Mumbai Indians (MI) as his foremost choice to make the IPL 2026 semifinals. The five-time champions entered the auction with a strong core already in place, having retained the majority of their key players ahead of the bidding. According to Ashwin, this continuity gives MI a clear edge over other franchises still searching for balance.
He also praised MI’s auction approach, pointing out their ability to secure quality players without overspending. The acquisition of Quinton de Kock for a modest INR 1 crore stood out as a particularly shrewd move, adding experience and firepower at the top of the order. Confident in their overall structure, Ashwin remarked in a video shared by the franchise that Mumbai were almost certain to be among the top teams when the season reaches its business end.
“I think MI is gonna get there for certain,” said Ashwin in a video shared by Mumbai Indians on social media.
Defending Champions’s conditional spot
Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) were Ashwin’s second pick, though his support came with important conditions. While acknowledging the strength of their retained core and their smart recruitment, including the addition of Venkatesh Iyer, Ashwin stressed that RCB’s fortunes would hinge heavily on player fitness.
He specifically highlighted the importance of Josh Hazlewood’s fitness and the availability of left-arm pacer Yash Dayal. Ashwin suggested that if both bowlers remain fit and available throughout the season, RCB have every chance of making a third straight playoff appearance. However, any disruption on that front could significantly affect their campaign.
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Shreyas Iyer-led side earn veteran player’s confidence
Ashwin also backed Punjab Kings (PBKS), last season’s runners-up, to feature in the IPL 2026 semifinals. Like MI and RCB, PBKS focused on retaining their core group, ensuring stability within the squad under the leadership of Shreyas Iyer. Ashwin felt this continuity, combined with targeted additions at the auction, made them a well-rounded side.
The inclusions of Ben Dwarshuis and Cooper Connolly added depth and flexibility to the Punjab lineup, strengthening both their bowling resources and all-round options. Ashwin noted that Punjab, alongside Mumbai, appeared to have assembled one of the most balanced squads heading into the new season.
“I believe that RCB will again make it. Punjab Kings, unless ofcourse RCB dont have Hazlewood or probably they dont have the services of Yash Dayal, then I dont know where they will be placed but I do think Punjab and Mumbai have put together good squads,” added Ashwin.
Former champions complete the top four
Completing his list, Ashwin picked Rajasthan Royals (RR), a franchise he previously represented. Admitting that his opinion had evolved over time, Ashwin praised the Royals for putting together what he described as a ‘mighty good side.’ He felt RR’s overall squad composition, blending youth with experience, could make them a strong contender in IPL 2026. According to Ashwin, their planning and execution at the auction reflected a clear vision, positioning them well to challenge for a semifinal spot.
“I have a small different opinion compared to what I had some time ago and I think that’s Rajasthan Royals. They have cooked together a mighty good side,” Ashwin signed off.
Also READ: IPL 2026 Auction: Complete list of sold players with their price
