New Zealand wicketkeeper-batter Finn Allen was picked up by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for Rs 2 crore, his base price, at the ongoing IPL 2026 mini-auction. Despite being one of the most destructive batters in T20 cricket globally, Allen is yet to play a single match in the Indian Premier League.
IPL journey so far
Allen was first associated with the IPL in 2021, when he joined Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) as a replacement player. He remained part of the RCB setup for multiple seasons but did not feature in the playing XI, finishing his stint without an IPL appearance or statistics to his name.
At the IPL 2025 mega auction, Allen went unsold despite carrying a base price of Rs 2 crore, continuing his wait for an opportunity in the league.
That wait ended at the IPL 2026 mini-auction, where KKR secured his services, marking his first association with a franchise other than RCB and keeping the door open for a potential IPL debut.
No IPL numbers yet, but strong T20 reputation
As of now, Allen has played zero IPL matches, with no runs or wickets to his name in the league. However, his reputation is built firmly on performances outside the IPL. Allen is regarded as a pure T20 specialist, boasting a career T20 strike rate exceeding 160 across competitions.
One of the defining moments of his T20 career came in June 2025, when he smashed the fastest-ever 150 in T20 cricket, reaching the landmark in just 49 balls while playing in Major League Cricket. The innings, which included 19 sixes, reignited interest from IPL franchises.
What Allen brings to KKR
With his ability to attack from ball one and his experience as a wicketkeeper-batter, Allen offers KKR an explosive top-order option and squad flexibility. Secured for Rs 2 crore, he represents a high-impact, high-upside signing as KKR look to strengthen their batting depth for IPL 2026.