IPL auction 2016: Yuvraj Singh, Shane Watson, Kevin Pietersen, Jos Buttler – players who will be on every franchise's wish list

Based on their current forms, Yuvraj, Pietersen, Watson and Buttler are players to watch out for in IPL 2016 auction.

New Delhi: The stage is all set for another IPL auction as eight franchises will once again bid for world-class players for cricket's slam-bang version.

The two new franchises – Gujarat Lions and Rising Pune Super Giants have already picked five players each at the draft held last year, and would now be keen to further strengthen their squads with formidable players.

As many as 351 players will be under the hammer, including 203 Indians and 131 foreigners.

Here are a few players who could be the highlight at the auction:

Yuvraj Singh: The Indian all-rounder was bought for a whopping 16 crores by Delhi Daredevils last year. The beleaguered franchise released their iconic player and considering his all-round skills, the southpaw will once again feature on every franchise's wish list. A good show in the T20I series against Australia, would only do more good for the dashing all-rounder's hope of bagging another big deal.

Base Price: Rs 2,00,00,000

Shane Watson: Surprisingly, the Australian all-rounder wasn't among the ten players picked at the draft. But the Aussie reminded the franchises of their blunder by hammering a second ton for Australia in T20Is in the recently concluded series against India. The 34-year-old was one of the most consistent performers for Sydney Thunders in the Big Bash League and with his current form, he could easily leave a hole in the pockets of the owners.

Base Price: Rs 2,00,00,000

Kevin Pietersen: Despite being discarded by the England cricket team, KP continues to enthrall audiences with his performances in several T20 leagues. The maverick right-hander was a hit at the Big Bash League and after being released by Delhi Daredevils, he is likely to earn another big contract in the IPL.

Base Price: Rs 2,00,00,000

Jos Buttler – The wicketkeeper-batsman's brutal ton against South Africa couldn't have come at a better time as he hammered 105 runs off just 76 balls against the AB de Villiers-led side on February 3. Buttler reminded the cricket fraternity of his big-hitting skills, and considering the carnage he can cause lower down the order, the Briton would be one of the hot favourites at the auction as well.

Base Price: Rs 1,50,00,000