Chennai Super Kings made one of the biggest statements of the IPL 2026 auction on Tuesday, locking in two uncapped Indian all-rounders for a combined Rs 28.4 crore. Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma, both teenagers with explosive potential, now carry massive expectations as CSK looks to rebuild its core after the departure of Ravindra Jadeja.
CSK’s bold move in Abu Dhabi
The auction room in Abu Dhabi buzzed when CSK pushed hard for Prashant Veer, eventually sealing the deal at Rs 14.20 crore. Minutes later, they matched that figure again to land Kartik Sharma, making it clear the franchise is betting big on young, multi-skilled Indian talent.
For context, both players came into the auction with modest reputations compared to international stars. By the end of the bidding, they were among the most talked-about names of the day.
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Prashant Veer: CSK’s Jadeja-style replacement
Prashant Veer’s rise has been quick and eye-catching. The 20-year-old all-rounder from Uttar Pradesh is a left-arm spinner who bats left-handed—traits that instantly drew comparisons with Ravindra Jadeja, whom CSK traded to Rajasthan Royals ahead of the season.
Veer shot into the spotlight during the UP T20 League, playing for Noida Super Kings. His ability to contribute in both departments stood out. In just nine T20 matches, he has scored at a strike rate of 167.16 while also picking up 12 wickets.
He has already tasted higher-level cricket, featuring in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and Uttar Pradesh’s Under-23 side. Veer had also attended CSK trials earlier, which may have helped the franchise assess his temperament before going all in at the auction.
For CSK, he is not just a buy for the future—he is being seen as a long-term Indian all-rounder who can bat, bowl, and field with equal impact.
Kartik Sharma: Teenage power-hitter from Rajasthan
The second big signing, Kartik Sharma, brings raw power and fearless batting. Just 19 years old, the Rajasthan all-rounder is known for clearing the ropes with ease and maintaining a strike rate north of 160.
In the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 tournament, Kartik scored 133 runs in five matches at a strike rate of 160.24, hammering 11 sixes along the way. Those numbers may look small on paper, but his intent and shot-making caught the attention of several experts.
Former England captain Kevin Pietersen and India’s ex-offspinner Ravichandran Ashwin have both spoken highly of Kartik’s talent, especially his confidence against quality bowling.
CSK’s Rs 14.20 crore bid reflects how highly the franchise rates his upside as a middle-order enforcer who can change games in a few overs.
Why CSK went big on these two
Chennai’s auction strategy this year has been clear: invest in young Indian all-rounders who can define the next phase of the team. With senior players gradually moving on, the franchise appears focused on building a core that can serve them for multiple seasons.
Both Veer and Kartik fit CSK’s traditional mould—calm under pressure, flexible roles, and strong domestic performances. The price tags are high, but CSK’s history suggests they are comfortable backing players they truly believe in.
Read More :- IPL 2026 Auction: Prashant Veer Becomes Biggest Uncapped Buy Ever as CSK Pay ₹14.20 Crore
Whether these two can live up to the hype will unfold over the coming seasons. For now, Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma have gone from promising domestic cricketers to headline acts of the IPL 2026 auction.
