Reeza Hendricks became the most expensive player in the SA20 2025 auction with a bid of 4.3 million Rand. The auctions were held on 1 October 2024 (Tuesday) in Cape Town, where all six franchises fulfilled the minimum requirement of 19 players in the squad.
While Reeza Hendricks was the most expensive player, South Africa’s Test and ODI captain Temba Bavuma found no takers and went unsold. South Africa’s emerging batsman Tony de Zorzi also found no takers at the auction.
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Reeza Hendricks became the most expensive player in the SA20 2025 auction
Reeza Hendricks sparked a bidding war between MI Cape Town and Pretoria Capitals but was eventually signed by MI Cape Town. Opener Reeza Hendricks played for the Joburg Super Kings last season but was released before this auction.
Reeza Hendricks had a disappointing T20 World Cup 2024 campaign where he scored 113 runs in 9 overs at an average of 14.12. Despite Hendricks’ poor World Cup campaign, South Africa had a memorable tournament as they reached the final of their first ever ICC tournament, where they lost to India.
Reeza Hendricks’ recent form could lead to such a high sum. The right-hander recently scored back-to-back fifties against Ireland in Abu Dhabi. Reeza Hendricks scored 102 runs at an average of 51 runs and a strike rate of 156.92.
MI Cape Town coach Robin Peterson was delighted to have Hendricks in the squad and claimed his experience would add a lot to the team. In Cape Town, MI, Hendricks will be reunited with local team Lions teammates Ryan Rickelton and Rassie van der Dussen.
“Reeza Hendricks adds a lot to the squad in terms of skill. She is an international, quality cricketer and has a lot of experience at the top of the order,” Peterson said.
Temba Bavuma and Toni de Zorzi are not for sale
On the other hand, it was very surprising to see two of South Africa’s regular international players go unsold in the auction. Temba Bavuma, who is currently the captain of South Africa’s Test and ODI teams, has not found any team to sign him.
Toni de Zorzi, who has shown great potential in his limited international opportunities so far, also remained unsold. The main reason for this may be that only 13 places are filled in this auction.
Matheesha Pathirana and Shamar Joseph also found teams
Matheesha Pathirana has joined another Super Kings franchise after a stint with Chennai Super Kings in the IPL. Pathirana was signed by Joburg Super Kings as a wildcard pick and will play his first SA20 season in 2025.
West Indies pace bowling sensation Shamar Joseph has been signed by the Durban Super Giants as the franchise fills its only slot. Joseph was signed for 4,25,000 Rand. This will be Joseph’s second Super Giants franchise, having already represented Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL. SA20 will also be his second overseas league after IPL.
Shamar Joseph made a name for himself after his impressive performances for the West Indies in the Test series in Australia. He led West Indies to victory over Australia at the Gabba with a lively bowling display.