Kartik Sharma overwhelmed as CSK snaps up teen sensation for Rs 14.20 crore

Emotions ran high at the IPL 2026 mini auction as 19-year-old Kartik Sharma was secured by five-time champions Chennai Super Kings for a record Rs 14.20 crore, making him the joint-highest paid uncapped player in league history.

Coming into the auction with a base price of Rs 30 lakh, Kartik and Uttar Pradesh’s Prashant Veer set the benchmark as CSK splurged heavily on both, sparking excitement across the cricketing fraternity.

“When the bidding started, I was scared I might miss out. But as the price kept rising, I started crying,” Kartik said in a statement released by JioHotstar. “Even after it ended, I couldn’t stop. I was overwhelmed with emotion and happiness. I honestly don’t know how to put it into words.”

The intense bidding battle began with Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants, with Kolkata Knight Riders joining soon after. MI eventually exited, and the price escalated to Rs 2.80 crore before CSK entered the fray. The price climbed further to Rs 13.20 crore when Sunrisers Hyderabad joined the contest, but CSK finally sealed the deal at Rs 14.20 crore.

Kartik, a talented keeper-batter from Rajasthan, expressed his excitement at the prospect of playing alongside Mahendra Singh Dhoni . He also credited his family and friends for their unwavering support throughout his journey.

“A special thank you to all my family members and friends. Without their support, I don’t think I would have reached this stage. My entire family is celebrating and dancing. I’m extremely excited to play alongside Dhoni and learn from him,” he said.

The acquisition of Kartik Sharma has already made headlines, signaling CSK’s intent to strengthen their squad with young talent ahead of the 2026 season.