SA20 2026 auction delivered a spectacular two-day event that reshaped the landscape of South African franchise cricket. Franchises dug deep to secure marquee talent, with the Pretoria Capitals setting a new benchmark by splashing R16.50 million on phenomenal young batter Dewald Brevis. Across the board, teams engaged in fierce bidding battles for players who can turn matches with bat, ball or leadership.
Here’s a look at the top 10 most expensive buys from the SA20 2026 auction:
1. Dewald Brevis – R16.50 million (INR 8.30 crore) – Pretoria Capitals
Nicknamed “Baby AB,” Brevis emerged as the costliest player in SA20 history. His explosive stroke-play and fearless approach at the crease convinced the Capitals to break the bank. Having dazzled in domestic T20s and franchise leagues abroad, he represents the future of protea batting.
2. Aiden Markram – R14 million (INR 7 crore) – Durban’s Super Giants
South Africa’s white-ball captain commanded the second-highest bid. Aiden Markram’s proven consistency and calm under pressure, coupled with his tactical acumen as skipper, made him a prized asset. Durban’s Super Giants are banking on his leadership and middle-order reliability to drive title ambitions.
3. Wiaan Mulder – R9 million (INR 4.50 crore) – Joburg Super Kings
The all-rounder’s rare combination of seam bowling and aggressive batting secured a hefty price tag. Joburg Super Kings showed faith in Wiaan Mulder’s versatility, expecting him to strengthen both departments and tilt close games in their favour.
4. Gerald Coetzee – R7.40 million (INR 3.73 crore) – Durban’s Super Giants
Coetzee’s express pace and wicket-taking knack made him one of the hottest commodities. Durban’s Super Giants invested heavily to add raw speed and breakthroughs up front, hoping his fiery spells can dismantle opposition powerplays.
5. Nandre Burger – R6.30 million (INR 3.20 crore) – Joburg Super Kings
Nandre Burger’s left-arm angle and ability to swing the ball late have troubled batters across formats. Joburg Super Kings secured him to bolster their pace attack, with expectations of penetrating new and old balls alike.
6. Matthew Breetzke – R6.10 million (INR 3 crore) – Sunrisers Eastern Cape
A consistent run-getter at the top of the order, Matthew Breetzke brings solidity and flair. Sunrisers Eastern Cape invested in his dependable starts and adaptability against both pace and spin, aiming to set or chase totals with confidence.
Also READ: South Africa sensation Dewald Brevis makes history as most expensive buy in SA20 history
7. Rassie van der Dussen – R5.20 million (INR 2.60 crore) – MI Cape Town
Known for his rock-solid technique and calm temperament, Rassie van der Dussen adds experience in the middle order. MI Cape Town expect his steady hand to stabilize innings during crisis and accelerate when needed, complementing their dynamic batting core.
8. Ottneil Baartman – R5.10 million (INR 2.57 crore) – Paarl Royals
Ottneil Baartman’s proficiency in bowling tight death overs and executing yorkers made him a key signing. Paarl Royals targeted his niche skills to restrict scoring in the final powerplays, where margins often decide matches.
9. Anrich Nortje – R5.00 million (INR 2.50 crore) – Sunrisers Eastern Cape
An established T20 superstar, Anrich Nortje’s raw pace and pinpoint yorkers remain lethal. Sunrisers Eastern Cape banked on his ability to unsettle batters and secure late breakthroughs, strengthening their bowling depth.
10. Quinton de Kock – R2.40 million (INR 1.20 crore) – Sunrisers Eastern Cape
One of world cricket’s biggest names, Quinton de Kock surprisingly fetched a comparatively modest price. However, his aggressive starts and championship experience make him a marquee signing. Sunrisers Eastern Cape will rely on his attacking wicketkeeping-batting combo to fire early and lift team morale.
The SA20 2026 mega auction showcased a blend of youth, leadership, all-round prowess and specialized skills. Teams prioritized players who can influence matches in multifaceted ways, whether through blistering batting, seam speed, spin control or captaincy. With auction fever subsided, franchises now turn attention to squad balance and strategies as they build toward a high-octane inaugural season. Continuous investment in domestic talent alongside established internationals underlines the league’s ambition to elevate South African T20 cricket on the global stage.
Also READ: Aiden Markram bags SA20 deal with Durban Super Giants worth three times his IPL price
