How Kavya Maran’s bidding tactics for two uncapped players affected CSK’s wallet in the IPL 2026 auction

The IPL 2026 mini auction in Abu Dhabi delivered the usual mix of surprises, but perhaps the most talked-about story was the high-stakes chess match between Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) CEO, Kavya Maranand the strategic team of Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Maran’s aggressive, almost calculated counter-bid for two specific uncapped players forced CSK to spend a record-breaking ₹28.40 crore on their targets, effectively draining a significant chunk of their available auction money.

The Unlimited Million Dollar Duo

The focus of the financial slugfest was on the acquisition of two promising Indian talents – Prashant Veer (All-rounder/left-arm spinner) and Kartik Sharma (Wicketkeeper-batsman).

CSK were determined to secure both players and saw them as an integral part of their long-term vision to build a youthful core. However, Sunrisers Hyderabad were equally determined to make them pay for it.

Prashant Veer’s bidding war

The bidding for Prashant Veer, the 20-year-old left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder from Uttar Pradesh, was the first sign of the impending financial storm. From a modest base price, bidding quickly went past the ₹5 crore mark. When CSK entered the fray, SRH (led by Kavya Maran) took on them and ruthlessly jacked up the price.

SRH’s continued escalation forced the Super Kings to dig deep, eventually sealing the deal for an astonishing ₹14.20 crore. This bid immediately broke the record for the most expensive uncapped player in the history of the IPL.

Also READ: IPL 2026 Auction: Here’s Why Cameron Green Gets Only INR 18 Crore Even Though KKR Bought Him For INR 25.2 Crore

The Kartik Sharma Echo

The déjà vu was palpable when capped Rajasthan wicketkeeper-batsman Kartik Sharma came under the hammer. After initial interest from other franchises (including KKR and LSG), CSK once again showed their intentions. Following their proven strategy, SRH acted late and jacked up the price with surgical precision.

The match culminated in CSK securing Kartik Sharma for the exact same amount: ₹14.20 crore. In a single auction, CSK had spent ₹28.40 crore on two domestic players, making Veer and Sharma joint holders of the all-time uncapped players record.

Kavya Maran’s psychological warfare in the auction room

Maran’s involvement in bidding for the two uncapped players stood out as a masterclass in strategy on auction day. Representing SRH, a franchise known for its keen auction instincts, Maran astutely identified CSK’s urgency to secure versatile Indian talent – ​​especially with the need to plan for a long-term replacement for Ravindra Jadeja after his move to Rajasthan Royals. By deliberately pushing the bids well above the realistic market value of the players and then walking away at the right time, Maran ensured that CSK paid a premium. The move not only disrupted CSK’s plans; it made a significant dent in their pockets, limiting their flexibility later in the auction and highlighting the tactical brilliance of SRH under Maran’s leadership.

Also READ: IPL 2026 auction: Fans erupt as CSK signs Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma at record prices; making them the most expensive uncapped players