The SA20 auction is heating up, and the buzz is palpable among cricket fans. With nearly 200 players, including 115 South Africans, listed for selection, the six franchises have only 13 spots left to fill. The spotlight, however, is firmly on the fast bowlers, with Shamar Joseph, Naseem Shah, Josh Little, and Josh Hull expected to be some of the hottest picks.
Fast bowlers leading
Shamar Joseph has been making waves recently with his raw pace and ability to swing the ball both ways. Known for his consistency, he has emerged as one of the top fast-bowling prospects.
Pakistan’s Naseem Shah is another name creating a stir. Famous for his lethal pace and pinpoint accuracy, Naseem’s presence in the SA20 could significantly boost any team’s bowling attack.
Ireland’s Josh Little has become a fan favorite due to his tenacious bowling in the powerplay and death overs. His ability to bowl with control and pick up crucial wickets makes him one of the top contenders in the auction.
Josh Hull, the young English sensation, has taken the domestic circuits by storm. His height and bounce, combined with his ability to extract movement, make him a tempting choice for franchises looking to add depth to their bowling lineup.
Other overseas players
New Zealand opener Martin Guptill is one of the most destructive batters in the shorter format. His explosive starts at the top of the order could be a game-changer for teams looking to strengthen their batting lineup.
Sri Lankan wicketkeeper-batter Kusal Mendis brings versatility and experience. His ability to bat in multiple positions makes him a handy addition for any side, particularly if they need stability in the middle order.
Afghan wrist-spinner Qais Ahmad has already proven himself in T20 leagues around the world. His skill in spinning the ball sharply and deceiving batters with variations make him a valuable spinner, especially on South African pitches.
Key South African players
Reeza Hendricks is perhaps the most high-profile South African player in the auction pool. Having been released by Joburg Super Kings, he’s now a hot prospect for any franchise needing an explosive opening batter.
Tony de Zorzi, another talented opener, is known for his aggressive stroke play. He offers teams a reliable option at the top of the order, and his inclusion in the auction could drive up his market value.
Franchises and their remaining budgets
Paarl Royals
With the largest remaining purse of R11.95 million, Paarl Royals are in a prime position to make bold moves in the auction.
MI Cape Town
MI Cape Town follows closely with R8.275 million. They have the resources to snap up a few marquee players, and their strategy will likely focus on balancing international flair with local expertise.
Pretoria Capitals
Pretoria Capitals, with R4.575 million left, will have to be more strategic. While they don’t have as much money to spend as Paarl Royals, they are still in the running to make a few smart signings.
Joburg Super Kings
Joburg Super Kings have R3.925 million in their wallet. While they have already locked in several players, their remaining funds will need to be used wisely to complete a competitive squad.
Sunrisers Eastern Cape
The back-to-back champions, Sunrisers Eastern Cape, have R2.845 million left to spend. Their challenge will be to reinforce their squad without overspending.
Durban’s Super Giants
Durban’s Super Giants have the smallest remaining budget, with R2.35 million. Their options may be limited, but a few strategic buys could still set them up for success in the upcoming season.
Wildcard Picks
The wildcard rule allows franchises to bring in one additional player, and Paarl Royals have made headlines by selecting former India wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik. As the first Indian player to feature in SA20, Karthik’s experience and leadership could prove invaluable.
Each SA20 squad must consist of 19 players, with a minimum of ten South African players, a maximum of seven international players, one rookie, and one wildcard player.
The SA20 2025 season will clash with several major T20 leagues, including Australia’s Big Bash League, UAE’s ILT20, and New Zealand’s Super Smash.
Squads ahead of SA20 auction
Durban’s Super Giants: Brandon King (West Indies), Quinton De Kock, Naveen Ul Haq (Afghanistan), Kane Williamson (New Zealand), Chris Woakes (England), Prenelan Subrayen, Dwaine Pretorius, Keshav Maharaj, Noor Ahmed (Afghanistan), Heinrich Klaasen, Jon-Jon Smuts, Wiaan Mulder, Junior Dala, Bryce Parsons, Matthew Breetzke, Jason Smith, Marcus Stoinis (Australia)
Joburg Super Kings: Faf Du Plessis, Moeen Ali (England), Jonny Bairstow (England), Maheesh Theekshana (Sri Lanka), Devon Conway (New Zealand), Gerald Coetzee, David Wiese (Namibia), Leus Du Plooy (England), Lizaad Williams, Nandre Burger, Donovan Ferreira, Imran Tahir, Sibonelo Makhanya, Tabraiz Shamsi
MI Cape Town: Rashid Khan (Afghanistan), Ben Stokes (England), Kagiso Rabada, Trent Boult (New Zealand), Azmatullah Omarzai (Afghanistan), Dewald Brevis, Ryan Rickelton, George Linde, Nuwan Thushara (Sri Lanka), Connor Esterhuizen, Delano Potgieter, Rassie Van der Dussen, Thomas Kaber, Chris Benjamin (England), Corbin Bosch
Pretoria Capitals: Anrich Nortje, Jimmy Neesham (New Zealand), Will Jacks (England), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (Afghanistan), Liam Livingstone (England), Will Smeed (England), Migael Pretorius, Rilee Rossouw, Eathan Bosch, Wayne Parnell, Senuran Muthusamy, Kyle Verreynne, Daryn Dupavillon, Steve Stolk, Tiaan van Vuuren
Paarl Royals: David Miller, Mujeeb Ur Rahman (Afghanistan), Sam Hain (England), Joe Root (England), Dinesh Karthik (India), Kwena Maphaka, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Bjorn Fortuin, Lungi Ngidi, Mitchell Van Buuren, Keith Dudgeon, Nqaba Peter, Andile Phehlukwayo, Codi Yusuf, John Turner (England), Dayyaan Galiem, Jacob Bethell (England)
Sunrisers Eastern Cape: Aiden Markram, Zak Crawley (England), Roelof van der Merwe (Netherlands), Liam Dawson (England), Ottneil Baartman, Marco Jansen, Beyers Swanepoel, Caleb Seleka, Tristan Stubbs, Jordan Hermann, Patrick Kruger, Craig Overton (England), Tom Abell (England), Simon Harmer, Andile Simelane, David Bedingham
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