Punjab wicketkeeper-batter Salil Arora has become one of the most talked-about uncapped players ahead of the IPL 2026 auction after smashing a sensational 39-ball century in the Punjab vs Jharkhand fixture in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Super League stage. His unbeaten 125 off 45 balls, containing nine fours and 11 sixes, not only powered Punjab to 235/6 but also instantly elevated his profile just days before he goes under the hammer with a INR 30 lakh base price. He comes in uncapped wicketkeepers set 2 in the shortlist of 359 players.
At just 23, Arora has played only 7 T20s and 9 first-class games, all debuting in 2025, but has shown enough spark to attract attention. He had been getting starts throughout SMAT 2025 before this explosive breakout innings arrived at the perfect moment. Listed in the wicketkeeper category, Arora now represents a high-upside budget option for teams needing domestic batting depth or a developing keeper.
Here are three IPL teams most likely to be interested in SMAT star Salil Arora at the IPL 2026 auction, starting with the most obvious suitor.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
Why KKR make sense:
KKR have released Quinton de Kock, Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Luvnith Sisodia, which leaves them without a frontline wicketkeeper ahead of IPL 2026. They will certainly chase a marquee overseas keeper-batter like Jamie Smith or Jonny Bairstow, but KKR auction strategy also include a reliable domestic backup who can step in when needed and strengthen squad balance.
This is where Salil Arora fits perfectly.
His high-tempo batting style aligns with KKR’s intention to rebuild a more aggressive batting group. While Kartik Sharma remains an option, Arora’s upside as a top-order hitter, combined with his fresh domestic form, makes him a strong budget pick. With a huge purse and multiple holes to fill, KKR could comfortably bring him in as a strategic backup.
Punjab Kings (PBKS)
Why PBKS may bid:
PBKS are Arora’s home state team, and they have just released Josh Inglis, leaving them with Prabhsimran Singh as the primary keeper. A reserve wicketkeeper is a practical requirement, especially given PBKS’s inconsistent batting last season.
Arora’s familiarity with Punjab conditions, his breakout SMAT century, and his ability to bat aggressively in the powerplay make him an ideal bench option who can develop into more. His presence gives PBKS insurance for Prabhsimran and a ready-made Indian replacement without disturbing their overseas combinations.
For a team that often values local players in their setup, PBKS picking Salil Arora feels logical and cost-efficient.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)
Why RCB should be interested:
RCB have released Mayank Agarwal, Manoj Bhandage and Swastik Chikara, leaving them short of Indian batting depth. With a settled top order but thin domestic backups, RCB auction strategy includes high-upside Indian hitters who can float between positions.
Salil Arora offers exactly that: explosive powerplay batting, the ability to keep wicket if needed, and long-term developmental value. RCB are unlikely to use an overseas slot on a keeper this time and may target a domestic option who can also serve as a rotational pick in their home conditions.
Given RCB’s batting-friendly surface and their inclination to invest in emerging Indian talent, Arora becomes a smart, low-cost depth signing.
