Jordan Cox, the England wicketkeeper-batter, finally found an IPL home after Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) picked him up for Rs 75 lakh in the accelerated round of the IPL 2026 mini-auction. Cox had earlier gone unsold at his base price during the initial rounds, before RCB moved in later to add him as a domestic-style overseas utility option.
From unsold to RCB signing
Cox entered the IPL 2026 auction with a base price of Rs 75 lakh but failed to attract any bids in the first phase, continuing a trend from previous auctions where he remained unsold despite solid T20 credentials. However, during the accelerated round, RCB identified the need for a reliable backup wicketkeeper-batter, and secured Cox at his base price.
The move gives RCB an experienced yet low-cost overseas option who can slot into the squad without putting pressure on the purse.
IPL status and background
Jordan Cox has never played an IPL match and is yet to make his on-field debut in the tournament. However, he is far from inexperienced in T20 cricket. The 25-year-old has featured extensively across global leagues, including the Pakistan Super League (PSL), Big Bash League (BBL), ILT20, and The Hundred, gaining exposure to varied conditions and high-pressure environments.
T20 career highlights
Across more than 160 T20 matches, Cox has built a reputation as a dependable middle-order batter and a competent wicketkeeper. He has scored over 3,700 runs at an average of 31.20 and a strike rate of 141.87, with one century and 19 half-centuries to his name. In addition, Cox has also represented England in both T20I and ODI formats, adding international experience to his profile.
Why RCB went for Jordan Cox
RCB’s decision to pick Cox at Rs 75 lakh appears to be a low-risk depth signing. With his ability to keep wickets and bat aggressively in the middle order, Cox offers flexibility as a backup option and cover in case of injuries or workload management during the long IPL season.
While he may not be an automatic starter, IPL 2026 could finally provide Jordan Cox his long-awaited debut, with RCB offering him a platform to translate his global T20 experience onto the IPL stage.
