Prashant Veer, Kartik Sharma and Three Others: IPL 2026 Auction Creates Five Most Expensive Uncapped Crorepatis Overnight

New Delhi:
The IPL 2026 mini auction proved to be a landmark moment for India’s uncapped cricketing talent, as franchises showed unprecedented faith in young domestic performers. While international stars once again attracted hefty bids, it was the uncapped Indian players who truly stole the spotlight, shattering previous auction records and turning dreams into reality in a matter of minutes.

With franchises increasingly focused on building a strong Indian core for the future, several players with a base price as low as ₹30 lakh walked away with life-changing contracts. Two of them even created history by becoming the joint most expensive uncapped players in IPL history. Here is a look at the five costliest uncapped players from the IPL 2026 auction:

Prashant Veer – ₹14.20 crore (Chennai Super Kings)
Uttar Pradesh’s young all-rounder Prashant Veer emerged as the biggest surprise of the auction. Chennai Super Kings splurged a record-breaking ₹14.20 crore to secure his services, making him one of the most expensive uncapped players ever. A left-handed batter who also bowls useful off-spin, Veer’s consistent performances in the domestic T20 circuit established him as a genuine match-winner. His all-round ability and composure under pressure made him a perfect long-term investment for CSK.

Kartik Sharma – ₹14.20 crore (Chennai Super Kings)
Joining Prashant Veer at the top of the list is Rajasthan wicketkeeper-batter Kartik Sharma. CSK paid an identical ₹14.20 crore for Sharma, making the duo joint record-holders as the most expensive uncapped players in IPL history. Known for his explosive batting in the lower middle order and his ability to finish innings at a high strike rate, Sharma’s added value as a wicketkeeping option significantly boosted his demand during the auction.

Aaqib Nabi Dar – ₹8.40 crore (Delhi Capitals)
Jammu and Kashmir pacer Aaqib Nabi Dar’s rise is a testament to the rewards of consistency in domestic cricket. Delhi Capitals invested ₹8.40 crore in the fast bowler, impressed by his strong first-class record and his ability to swing the new ball in T20s. Dar adds depth to India’s pace pool and provides Delhi with a reliable Indian fast-bowling option who can step up when needed.

Mangesh Yadav – ₹5.20 crore (Royal Challengers Bengaluru)
Royal Challengers Bengaluru placed a major bet on Madhya Pradesh fast bowler Mangesh Yadav, acquiring him for ₹5.20 crore. Known for his raw pace and disciplined lines in domestic cricket, Yadav strengthens RCB’s Indian pace resources. His inclusion allows the franchise greater flexibility in using overseas players across other departments.

Tejasvi Singh – ₹3 crore (Kolkata Knight Riders)
Delhi-based 23-year-old Tejasvi Singh entered the auction with a modest base price of ₹30 lakh but walked away with a ₹3 crore contract after an intense bidding war involving multiple franchises. Kolkata Knight Riders eventually sealed the deal, paying ten times his base price. Tejasvi rose to prominence with his sensational performances in the Delhi Premier League, where he scored at a strike rate of over 190 and led the charts for most sixes.

The IPL 2026 auction once again underlined the league’s growing trust in domestic talent. For these uncapped players, the auction was not just about money, but recognition—proof that strong performances at the grassroots level can open doors to the biggest stage in world cricket.

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