The new season of the SA20 is almost here, and all attention is on Johannesburg on Tuesday, September 9 for the undoubtably exciting player auction. The 2025 player auction, which will see up to 72 player slots available, is yearning for bidding wars, strategic acquisitions, and some surprises! The format of the auction is consistent with past years, with respect for each team keeping a strong South African contingent. Each team can have a maximum of seven overseas players, and must have 11 South Africans as part of their regular squad of 18.

To help develop more young players, and preserve competitive balance, every franchise can pre-sign or retain a maximum of six players before the auction, consisting of a maximum of three overseas and three South African players. Another key feature returning this year is the Wildcard option. Each franchise can acquire a Wildcard player - local or international, with their salary excluded from the teams' salary cap. All these rules are intended to promote squad balance but create also flexibility and excitement.

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This year’s salary cap has been raised to an all-time high of USD 2.3 million per team, up from USD 1.9 million in Season 1. The increased purse makes SA20 the highest-paying franchise T20 league outside of India. One of the biggest innovations for Season 4 is the introduction of Right to Match (RTM) cards. For the first time in SA20 history, franchises can use RTM cards to retain players who were part of their squad in the previous season by matching the winning bid during the auction.

Richard Madley to host the event

The RTM cards add a strategic twist to this year’s proceedings, especially since the number of RTM cards per team will depend on how many South African players they have pre-retained. Stephen Cook, Head of Cricket Operations, highlighted how nearly 60% of all squad spots will be decided during the auction, adding a fresh layer of strategy to squad building. He also reaffirmed SA20’s commitment to young players. Although the Rookie Draft has been removed, each franchise must include at least two Under-23 players in their final 19-member squads.

Popular auctioneer Richard Madley will return to host the event, continuing his now-iconic association with SA20. The auction event will be streamed live on SuperSport and on the SA20 YouTube Channel, with further updates to be shared in real-time via the league’s social media channels. This auction provides a perfect start to Season 4 and highlights a pivotal moment ahead of what we hope will be the league’s biggest and most exciting season ready to be announced. With the tournament beginning on 26 December 2025, the viewing public can expect some of the best cricket around, during the holiday season, at the best cricket venues in the country.

The upcoming fourth edition of the SA20 is set for a significant overhaul, with only six player retentions or pre-signings allowed per franchise—the lowest in the league’s brief history. With this rule change, a massive 72 player slots will be up for grabs in the auction, scheduled for September 9. This represents 63% of the 108 available squad places in the six teams, for a very hotly contested bidding war between domestic and international talent.

Retention policy was shaken up, but squad composition is the same as always. Every franchise will have to feature a minimum of 11 South Africans and an open maximum of seven overseas cricketers. The salary cap has also seen a boost, rising from R39.1 million (US$2.2 million) to R41 million (US$2.31 million), making SA20 the second-highest-paying T20 league globally, behind only the IPL. Teams are also allowed to sign one wildcard player whose salary won’t count toward the cap.

A Right to Match (RTM) card will also be introduced for the first time, giving franchises the power to reclaim players who represented them in season 3 by matching the highest bid. The number of RTM cards a team gets depends on how many South African players they retain. Additionally, the rookie draft has been scrapped, and all teams must now sign a minimum of two players under the age of 23, ensuring young talent continues to receive opportunities.

New Schedule, Same Format

The SA20 will begin earlier this season, kicking off on Boxing Day and concluding by January 26. This change accommodates a packed South African international calendar and stadium upgrades in preparation for the 2027 ODI World Cup. Notably, there are no home Tests during the 2025–26 summer, allowing the domestic T20 league a clear window.

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While the timing has shifted for this season, the format remains intact. The tournament will feature six franchises and 34 matches, as in previous editions. SA20 will return to its traditional January-to-mid-February slot for the 2027 and 2028 seasons, with a slightly extended playing window.

The IPL 2025 season proved to be a forgettable one for Chennai Super Kings, with the five-time title winners finishing bottom of the table. CSK managed only 4 victories in 14 games and did not make it to the playoffs, showing neither consistency nor fire across departments. The franchise also failed to find the right combination under a new leadership era after MS Dhoni.

Though some young players and old-timers gave glimpses of promise, some members of the squad were woefully short. In the build-up to the IPL 2026 auction, a drastic overhaul is on the cards, and the following six players are expected to be released:

1. Rachin Ravindra

New Zealand all-rounder Rachin Ravindra played 8 games, making 191 runs at an average of 27.29 and a strike rate of 128.19 with two half-centuries. He lacked consistency, though, and more often than not failed to make an impression from his starts. His left-arm spin was not properly utilized, having very little effect. With CSK looking for a more attacking and multi-faceted top-order player, Ravindra will probably be let go.

2. Sam Curran

Sam Curran featured in 5 matches, scoring 114 runs with an average of 22.80 and a strike rate of 135.71. With the ball, he scalped 5 wickets but conceded runs in plenty, ending with an economy of 11.08. He was bought by CSK in the IPL 2025 auction for INR 2.40 Cr. Even though he has had past CSK experiences, he did not contribute much in either form in 2025. As his price is high and he didn't yield much return, CSK might unload him to accommodate more effective overseas players.

3. Vijay Shankar

Vijay Shankar scored 118 runs from 5 games at an average of 39.33 and a strike rate of 129.67, including one half-century. He was acquired by CSK for ₹1.2 crore at the IPL 2025 auction. But his contribution did not have any match-winning value, and he wasn't given a chance to bowl. His existence as a reserve Indian all-rounder is redundant in CSK's new team dynamic. With younger options present, his chances of being retained are less.

4. Deepak Hooda

Deepak Hooda's season was not good, with just 31 runs in 6 games at a woeful average of 6.20 and a strike rate of 75.61. He was acquired by CSK at the 2025 IPL Auction for INR 1.7 crore. Despite being experimented with in the middle order, he couldn't push the game along or steady the ship in crisis situations. He did not get a bowl and exerted no impact in any match. With his form not being good and no single good performance, he is sure to be released.

See Also: Big Breaking! RCB list for player releasing out ahead of IPL 2026

5.  Jamie Overton

Jamie Overton was signed by CSK during the IPL 2025 auction. jamie Overton played only 2 matches in IPL 2025, conceding runs at a very high economy rate of 13.83 with the bat scoring 15 at a strike rate of 214.29. He was picked as a pace-bowling all-rounder but never earned the trust of the management for his services in the big matches. With so little contribution and overseas spots being precious, Overton is expected to be one of the first few to be let go of releases.

6. Rahul Tripathi

Rahul Tripathi was acquired by CSK for INR 3.40 crore at the 2025 IPL Auction. He played 5 games and managed just 55 runs at an average of 11.00 and a strike rate of 96.49. As brought in for adding depth to the top order, he could not get into rhythm or contribute at all. His failure put more pressure on a batting lineup already fragile. With form and confidence being lacking, his retention also looks extremely unlikely.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru finally ended the 17-year wait for an IPL title on Tuesday (June 3), making history at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad by beating Punjab Kings by six runs in the final of the IPL 2025. The win was a long-awaited breakthrough for the franchise, with several players coming on strong throughout the season.

But although the victory was theirs, not all members of their squad contributed meaningfully. Some players either did not convert their chances or did not even play, prompting very heavy speculation that RCB might let them go before the IPL 2026 auction, likely later this year or early next year.

1. Nuwan Thushara

Sri Lankan bowler Nuwan Thushara was retained for ₹1.5 crore in the 2025 IPL auction. He played only one match, against the Lucknow Super Giants, where he bowled tightly and took 1 wicket for 26 runs from his four-over spell. Although he performed well, Thushara was kept on the bench because of the availability of senior overseas pacers. RCB can consider releasing him to create space for more cricket-balanced bowling personnel.

2. Lungi Ngidi

Lungi Ngidi appeared in two games for RCB in IPL 2025 and took four wickets. But he leaked runs at a costly economy rate of 10.12 and was not available for the playoffs because of international commitments. Though his strike power is a plus point, his inconsistency and injury record are an area of concern. RCB might release him to accommodate more reliable overseas bowlers.

3. Blessing Muzarabani

Zimbabwean pacer Blessing Muzarabani played not a single match in IPL 2025 even after being in the squad. His function was to be a seamer on call, but he was never given the opportunity because of a settled bowling attack. With no contribution and with experience being limited for him in high-pressure leagues, the chances of his retention are bleak. RCB can release him to look for more energetic backup possibilities.

4. Rasikh Dar

J&K pacer Rasikh Dar was purchased at ₹6 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction. He featured in two games—against KKR and GT—but didn't make a mark, taking just one wicket while giving away runs at a rate of more than 11 runs per over. After sitting out the remainder of the tournament, it was evident he wasn't part of RCB's major schemes. Given his hefty price tag, release now appears a certainty.

See Also: Big Breaking! CSK list for player releasing out ahead of IPL 2026

5. Swastik Chikara

Swastik Chikara sat on the bench for the entire duration of IPL 2025. The young left-hand hitter could not find a place in RCB's potent top and middle order, which included consistent performers. Having no match minutes and minimal contribution to the team dynamics, his retention does not make sense. RCB could let him go and sign a more experienced domestic player.

6. Swapnil Singh

Swapnil Singh, the veteran left-arm spinner, did not find a game in RCB's championship-winning 2025 season. Though his experience is worth the bench, the team banked more on all-rounders and aggressive spinners throughout the season. With fresh and younger spin talent rising, Swapnil's chances of being retained seem thin. He could be released prior to the next auction.

As the T20 Mumbai League 2025 Auction played out amidst intense bidding and drama, the anticipation of one of Mumbai's most prestigious domestic cricket events was palpable. The franchises were aggressive in their pursuit to acquire the best cricketing talents in Mumbai; therefore, many of the young, emerging stars cost a pretty penny.

Auction Highlights and Top Bids

The auction was a testament to the wealth of Mumbai cricket talent, with franchises competing to acquire both proven names and young prospects. The day's biggest acquisition was Atharva Ankolekar, who went for ₹16.25 lakh to Eagle Thane Strikers, a confirmation of his increasing reputation as an all-rounder with utility value. Hot on his heels were Musheer Khan and Sairaj Patil, both signed up for ₹15 lakh by ARCS Andheri and Eagle Thane Strikers, respectively, underlining the value placed on young, dynamic players.

The other big purchases were Ayush Mhatre (₹14.75 lakh, Triumph Knights Mumbai North East), Angkrish Raghuvanshi (₹14 lakh, SoBo Mumbai Falcons), and Shams Mulani (₹14 lakh, Aakash Tigers Mumbai Western Suburbs), all of whom have already caused ripples in domestic and IPL circuits. The bidding duels highlighted the franchises' intention to mix experience with youth to build competitive teams.

Also Read: Shocking Update: Will IPL 2025 be cancelled due to Operation Sindhoor?

Team-wise Player Breakdown

Triumph Knights Mumbai Northeast

• Icon Player: Suryakumar Yadav (₹20 lakh)
• Top Buys: Ayush Mhatre (₹14.75 lakh), Suryansh Shedge (₹13.75 lakh)
• Other Notables: Sidhaant Aadhhathrao (₹7.75 lakh), Parikshit Valsangkar (₹7.25 lakh), Jay Jain (₹4 lakh)

Bandra Blasters

• Icon Player: Ajinkya Rahane (₹20 lakh)
• Top Buys: Suved Parkar (₹8.50 lakh), Akash Anand (₹8.25 lakh)
• Other Picks: Royston Dias, Karsh Kothari, Dhanit Raut
  

North Mumbai Panthers

• Icon Player: Prithvi Shaw (₹20 lakh)
  
• Top Buys: Mohit Avasthi (₹10.50 lakh), Tanush Kotian (₹10 lakh)
  
• Talented Additions: Divyansh Saxena, Khizar Dafedar, Harshal Jadhav
  

SoBo Mumbai Falcons

• Icon Player: Shreyas Iyer (₹20 lakh)
  
• Top Buys: Angkrish Raghuvanshi (₹14 lakh), Siddharth Raut (₹7 lakh)
  
• Supporting Cast: Vinayak Bhoir, Harsh Aghav, Kush Kariya
  

ARCS Andheri

• Icon Player: Shivam Dube (₹20 lakh)
  
• Top Buys: Musheer Khan (₹15 lakh), Prasad Pawar (₹13 lakh)
  
• Other Signings: Himanshu Singh, Akhil Herwadkar, Siddid Tiwari
  

Eagle Thane Strikers

• Icon Player: Shardul Thakur (₹20 lakh)
  
• Top Buys: Atharva Ankolekar (₹16.25 lakh), Sairaj Patil (₹15 lakh)
  
• Emerging Talents: Shashank Attarde, Harsh Tanna, Varun Lavande
  

Also Read: IPL 2025: PBKS vs DC Match 58 - A Head to Head breakdown

Aakash Tigers Mumbai Western Suburbs

• Icon Player: Sarfaraz Khan (₹20 lakh)
• Top Buys: Shams Mulani (₹14 lakh), Jay Bista (₹12 lakh)
  
• Strong Lineup: Hardik Tamore, Ayaz Ahmed, Siddharth Akre
  

Mumbai South Central Maratha Royals

• Icon Player: Tushar Deshpande (₹20 lakh)
  
• Top Buys: Siddhesh Lad (₹10.25 lakh), Aditya Dhumal (₹7.25 lakh)
  
• Promising Selections: Sachin Yadav, Khan Awais Naushad, Rohan Ghag
  

The highly anticipated T20 Mumbai League 2025 auction is all set to kick off tomorrow, May 7, at 10 AM IST in Mumbai. This will signal the start of the third season of the league after a gap of six years. Eight franchises will be participating in the tournament, playing at the iconic Wankhede Stadium between May 26 and June 8.

Around 280 players are to be sold, some of whom are newer names such as 17-year-old Ayush Mhatre, who struck a 94-run score in IPL 2025 for Chennai Super Kings, and Angkrish Raghuvanshi, who's made 285 runs for the Kolkata Knight Riders this season. Some other established names are Tanush Kotian and Musheer Khan, reflecting the league's emphasis on promoting both talent and experience.

Auction Format and Player Categories

The auction pool consists of three categories:

• Senior Players: players with experience in first-class, List A, or T20 matches with base price set at ₹5 lakh. 
• Emerging Players: cricketers who have represented Mumbai at the U-23 or U-19 level within the last three years with a base price of ₹3 lakh.
• Development Players: promising local and club players, beginning at a base price of ₹2 lakh. 

Each franchise needs to build a squad of no less than 18 players that must include at least 4 senior players, at least 5 emerging players, and at least 5 development players. 

Also Read: T20 Mumbai 2025: Ayush Mhatre and Angkrish Raghuvanshi set to feature in player auction

Icon players are already signed at a fixed price of ₹20 lakh and will be the team's captains. This means we will have familiar names such as Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Ajinkya Rahane, Prithvi Shaw, Sarfaraz Khan, Shardul Thakur, Shivam Dube, and Tushar Deshpande. The Mumbai Cricket Association has obligated all players from Mumbai Indians who are eligible to participate in the auction to play in the T20 Mumbai League, where they will get an additional ₹15 lakh appearance fee in addition to what they earn in the auction. 

The T20 Mumbai League 2025 auction is a must-watch if you enjoy a mixture of established players and emerging players to see the league head in the right direction for the right reasons—an exciting season!

In thrilling news for Mumbai cricket followers, two of the city's young stars,Ayush Mhatre and Angkrish Raghuvanshi—are set to make their entry in the limelight in the next T20 Mumbai League auction. To be held on Wednesday, the auction will feature both players with a reserve price of ₹5 lakh, reflecting their growing value and prospects in the domestic T20 league.

Ayush Mhatre is an aggressive hitter with a flair for finishing games, and he has made his mark on the local Mumbai circuit and age-group cricket. His explosive hitting and calmness under pressure have made him one of the most discussed prospects in the Mumbai cricket landscape. Like Mhatre, Angkrish Raghuvanshi has already played on the national stage as India U-19 and has shown both a mature batting style and a sense of being able to finish off big innings. Both players are future stars and will likely have teams bidding for them during the auction.

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The Mumbai League T20, established in 2018 with the support of the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA), has served as a nursery for emerging young players looking to make a transition into IPL or national-level contention. The earlier seasons have discovered players such as Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shams Mulani, who have gone on to enjoy considerable success. Following a short break, the league is back with fresh enthusiasm and an increasing reputation as one of India's most competitive state-level T20 tournaments.

T20 Mumbai 2025: Format, Teams, and Expectations

The T20 Mumbai League for the year 2025 will be represented by six franchises that reflect various regions of Mumbai—SoBo Supersonics, North Mumbai Panthers, Aakash Tigers, ARCS Andheri, NaMo Bandra Blasters, and Eagle Thane Strikers. The competition pattern involves a round-robin league with subsequent playoffs, and matches are scheduled to take place at Wankhede Stadium.

Also Read: IPL 2025: Mahela Jayawardene discloses reason behind Rohit Sharma playing as 'Impact Player'

This year's auction is likely to attract attention not just for known domestic players but also for young players such as Mhatre and Raghuvanshi, who have the energy, ability, and hunger to establish themselves. With the minimum price being low, bidding from teams to pick up these future stars is likely to be keen.