Reeza Hendricks secures record R4.3 million at SA20 2025 auction, Temba Bavuma goes unsold

Reeza Hendricks became the most expensive player of the SA20 2025 auction with a bid of Rand 4.3 million. The auctions were held in Cape Town on October 1, 2024 (Tuesday) where all six franchises completed the requirement of having a minimum of 19 players in the squad.

While Reeza Hendricks was the most expensive player, South Africa's Test and ODI captain Temba Bavuma did not find any buyers and went unsold. South Africa's emerging batter Tony de Zorzi also found no buyers in the auction.

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Reeza Hendricks becomes most expensive player in SA20 2025 auction

Reeza Hendricks triggered a bidding war between MI Cape Town and Pretoria Capitals but was finally signed by MI Cape Town. The opener Reeza Hendricks played for Joburg Super Kings last season but was released ahead of this auction.

Reeza Hendricks had a disappointing T20 World Cup 2024 campaign where he scored 113 runs in 9 innings at an average of 14.12. Despite Hendricks' poor World Cup campaign, South Africa had a memorable tournament as they reached their first-ever ICC tournament final but lost to India there.

Reeza Hendricks' recent form could be the reason for such a high amount. The right-handed opener scored consecutive fifties recently against Ireland in Abu Dhabi. Reeza Hendricks scored 102 runs at an average of 51 and a strike rate of 156.92.

MI Cape Town coach Robin Peterson was thrilled to have Hendricks in the squad and claimed that his experience would add a lot to the team. At MI Cape Town, Hendricks will be reunited with his domestic team Lions teammates Ryan Rickelton and Rassie van der Dussen.

"Reeza Hendricks adds a lot to the group in terms of his skill. He is an international, quality cricketer with lots of experience at the top of the order," Peterson said.

Temba Bavuma and Tony de Zorzi go unsold

On the other hand, it was hugely surprising to see two of South Africa's regular international players go unsold at the auction. Temba Bavuma, who is currently the captain of South Africa's Test and ODI teams, did not find any team to sign him.

Tony de Zorzi, who has shown immense potential in his limited international opportunities so far, also remained unsold. The main reason behind this could be that there were just 13 spots to fill in this auction.

Matheesha Pathirana and Shamar Joseph also find teams

Matheesha Pathirana joined another Super Kings franchise after serving for Chennai Super Kings in the IPL. Pathirana was signed as a wildcard pick by Joburg Super Kings and will be playing his first SA20 season in 2025.

West Indies pace bowling sensation Shamar Joseph was signed by Durban Super Giants as the franchise filled up their only slot. Joseph was signed for Rand 4,25,000. This will be Joseph's second Super Giants franchise, having already represented Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL. The SA20 will also be his second overseas league after the IPL.

Shamar Joseph made a name for himself after impressive performances for West Indies in the Test series in Australia. He led West Indies to a win over Australia at the Gabba with a spirited bowling performance.