CSK Acquires Karthik Sharma for ₹14.2 Crore in IPL 2026 Auction
Karthik Sharma's Record-Breaking Purchase
In the IPL 2026 auction held on Tuesday, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), five-time champions, secured uncapped Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Karthik Sharma for a staggering ₹14.2 crore. This acquisition makes Sharma one of the most expensive uncapped Indian players in IPL history, sharing this distinction with Prashant Veer, who was also bought by CSK.
Prashant Veer, an all-rounder from Uttar Pradesh, attracted significant attention during the bidding war, which involved teams like Lucknow Super Giants, Mumbai Indians, CSK, Royal Renault, and Royal Red Hampshire. Ultimately, CSK remained persistent in their bidding, successfully acquiring him for ₹14.20 crore.
Sharma's Impressive Performance
Sharma has showcased remarkable talent in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), scoring 112 runs at an average of over 37 and a strike rate exceeding 170 across six innings, with a top score of 40 not out. Additionally, he claimed nine wickets at an average of nearly 18 over seven matches.
The Mumbai Indians initially bid ₹30 lakh for Sharma, with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) joining the fray, pushing the price to ₹5 crore. CSK then entered the bidding, raising his price further. In a last-minute move, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) also placed a bid, but CSK ultimately secured Sharma for ₹14.20 crore.
Sharma's T20 and Ranji Trophy Stats
The emerging wicketkeeper-batsman from Rajasthan has played 12 T20 matches, scoring 334 runs at an average of 30.36 and a strike rate of 162.92, including two half-centuries. In the Ranji Trophy, Sharma has participated in five matches, amassing 331 runs at an impressive average of 55.16, which includes two centuries.
In other auction news, wicketkeeper-batsman Mukul Chaudhary from Rajasthan was acquired by Lucknow Super Giants for ₹2.6 crore, while aggressive wicketkeeper Tejaswi Dahiya was bought by KKR for ₹3 crore. Fast bowler Ashok Sharma from Rajasthan, capable of reaching speeds between 140 and 150, was purchased by Gujarat Titans for ₹90 lakh. Ashok led the wicket-takers in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy this year, claiming 20 wickets at an average of over 14, including two instances of taking four wickets.