South Africa’s Reeza Hendricks emerged as the most sought-after player at the SA20 auction ahead of the 2025 season, fetching a staggering bid of Rand 4.3 million. MI Cape Town outbid Pretoria Capitals in a fierce bidding war to secure the services of the batter.
Despite a disappointing T20 World Cup performance and being released by Joburg Super Kings, Hendricks’ recent form, including back-to-back half-centuries against Ireland, made him a highly desirable asset. He will reunite with his Lions teammates Rassie van der Dussen and Ryan Rickelton at Cape Town.
However, Temba Bavuma and Tony de Zorzi remained unsold, as six franchises had only 13 spots to fill. Durban’s Super Giants filled their lone slot with West Indies fast bowler Shamar Joseph, who had previously gone unsold. Joseph will join Allan Donald, the new bowling coach of Super Giants.
Cape Town also added Colin Ingram and Dane Piedt to their roster, bolstering their batting and spin attack, respectively. Back-to-back champions Sunrisers Eastern Cape continued their focus on fast bowlers, acquiring England’s Richard Gleeson and Dolphins’ Okuhle Cele.
Joburg Super Kings recruited allrounders Wihan Lubbe, Evan Jones, and Doug Bracewell, while Paarl Royals signed wicketkeeper Rubin Hermann. Pretoria Capitals spent heavily on Dolphins’ Marques Ackerman and West Indies opener Evin Lewis.
Graeme Smith, the former South Africa captain and current SA20 commissioner, expressed satisfaction with the strength of all six teams, highlighting the mix of quality South African and international players. He emphasized the league’s goal of developing South African players and pointed to the success of Ottneil Baartman as an example.
Super Kings selected Warriors’ allrounder JP King as their rookie player, while all other franchises have announced their wildcard picks. Notably, Royals have signed former India wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik as their wildcard player, making him the first Indian to feature in the SA20.
