Chennai Super Kings (CSK) spent big on two uncapped Indian players at the IPL 2026 auction in Abu Dhabi. Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma each fetched an astonishing INR 14.2 crore, breaking all previous uncapped player records. This combined outlay of INR 28.4 crore signals a significant shift in CSK’s strategy for the upcoming season.
Record-Breaking Bids Secure Young Talent
CSK secured 20-year-old left-arm spin all-rounder Prashant Veer and 19-year-old wicketkeeper-batter Kartik Sharma for INR 14.2 crore each. This made them the most expensive uncapped Indian players in IPL auction history. The previous record stood at INR 10 crore, paid for Avesh Khan in 2022. The double acquisition underscores a bold move by the Super Kings, as ESPN reported on the day of the auction.
The Bidding Wars Unfold
The bidding for Prashant Veer began at his base price of INR 30 lakh. Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants quickly pushed his value higher. A multi-franchise battle involving CSK, LSG, Rajasthan Royals, and Sunrisers Hyderabad then ensued. CSK eventually outbid the competition, securing Veer for INR 14.2 crore.
A similar pattern followed for Kartik Sharma. His base price also stood at INR 30 lakh, attracting early bids from MI and LSG. Kolkata Knight Riders and CSK entered the fray as the price climbed. CSK finally outbid Sunrisers Hyderabad to acquire Sharma, matching the INR 14.2 crore price tag. These intense battles highlighted the high demand for young domestic talent, as discussed in various post-auction analyses available online.
Veer’s Rise
Prashant Veer, a 20-year-old left-arm spin all-rounder, hails from Uttar Pradesh. He had played nine domestic T20s before the auction. Veer gained attention through strong performances in the UP T20 League, the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), and various UP Under-23 fixtures. His consistent play earned him trials with CSK, ultimately leading to this record-breaking deal. Many cricket analysts had been watching his progress, noting his potential to impact T20 cricket.
Sharma’s Impact
Kartik Sharma, a 19-year-old wicketkeeper-batter from Rajasthan, is managed by JSW Sports. Sharma is known as a lower-order finisher with big-hitting ability. In 12 T20 matches, he scored 334 runs at a strike rate of 164. He also hit 28 sixes in those games. His ability to clear the ropes makes him a valuable asset in the modern T20 format, as highlighted in player profile discussions across cricket platforms.
Chennai’s Strategic Shift
CSK head coach Stephen Fleming framed these signings as a deliberate shift for the franchise. He indicated a move away from CSK’s traditional “experience-first” approach. Fleming called it part of a broader adaptation to the modern T20 profile. He cited lessons from IPL 2025 that encouraged earlier investment in fearless young talent.
“We learned that waiting for experience can sometimes mean missing out on players who are ready to perform now. We want to back young talent early.”
Fleming told ESPN. He also linked CSK’s other roster moves, such as the trade of Ravindra Jadeja for Sanju Samson, to succession planning. This suggests a long-term vision for the team as MS Dhoni nears the end of his playing career. The focus is now on building a squad that can dominate for years to come.
What’s Next for the Super Kings
The acquisition of Veer and Sharma injects fresh energy and youthful exuberance into the CSK squad. Their performances in the upcoming IPL season will be closely watched. These signings reflect a clear commitment from CSK to build for the future, prioritizing young, high-potential players over established stars. The team now looks to integrate these new talents ahead of the IPL 2026 season, preparing them for the pressures of top-tier T20 cricket, as discussed in various post-auction reports.
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