By Tim Douglas 
Brevis Headlines Record-Breaking Auction
Season 4 of the SA20 Auction proved historic, with Dewald Brevis smashing the record books by going under the hammer for a staggering R16.5 million to the Pretoria Capitals (PC). Not far behind, Aiden Markram triggered a fierce bidding war before being snapped up by Durban’s Super Giants (DSG) for R14 million, making him one of the most expensive local signings in league history.
This auction underlined the value franchises place on young South African talent. With Brevis already tipped as a generational batter and Markram in sublime form across formats, the investments signal a new era for the SA20.
Durban’s Super Giants: Markram and Klaasen Power
Head coach Lance Klusener built his roster around experienced internationals and rising stars. Heinrich Klaasen was secured as a wildcard, while Gerald Coetzee (R7.4m) and teenager Kwena Maphaka (R2.3m) highlight a focus on pace. The signing of Devon Conway for just R325k stands out as a bargain. With Markram at the heart, DSG will be one of the most watched sides.
Joburg Super Kings: Fleming Reloads
Under Stephen Fleming, the Joburg Super Kings (JSK) brought in Wiaan Mulder for R9m and Nandre Burger for R6.3m. Their mix of flair and experience is boosted by Rilee Rossouw (R500k) and Imran Tahir (R600k). With Faf du Plessis retained and Donovan Ferreira as wildcard, JSK have balanced firepower with tactical nous.
MI Cape Town: Local Core Strengthened
Robin Peterson’s MI Cape Town (MICT) secured Rassie van der Dussen (R5.2m) and Reeza Hendricks (R500k), giving them stability. Their big wildcard was Kagiso Rabada, while they added Afghan all-rounder Karim Janat (R1m). With Nicholas Pooran pre-signed, MICT look like a batting-heavy unit.
Paarl Royals: Raza and Baartman Boost
With Trevor Penney in charge, the Paarl Royals (PR) landed Sikandar Raza as a pre-signing and bolstered their bowling with Ottniel Baartman (R5.1m) and Delano Potgieter (R2.6m). Keeper-batter Kyle Verreynne (R2.3m) strengthens their middle order. The Royals, consistent playoff contenders, look to go one step further.
Pretoria Capitals: Brevis Makes Headlines
The Pretoria Capitals, now coached by Sourav Ganguly, stole the show by splashing R16.5m on Dewald Brevis. They also landed Conor Esterhuizen (R3.2m) and Keshav Maharaj (R1.7m), alongside English pacers Craig Overton and Saqib Mahmood. With Andre Russell as wildcard and Sherfane Rutherford pre-signed, they boast power at both ends of the innings.
Sunrisers Eastern Cape: Strength in Balance
Adrian Birrell’s Sunrisers Eastern Cape (SEC) recruited Quinton de Kock (R2.4m) and Matthew Breetzke (R6.1m) to bolster their top order. Anrich Nortje (R5m) leads the pace attack, while Marco Jansen remains their wildcard. With Jonny Bairstow and Adam Milne pre-signed, SEC’s depth makes them title favourites again.
A Defining Auction for SA20
The 2025 auction showcased the growing stature of the SA20, with record sums splashed on South African stars. Brevis’ record deal and Markram’s mega contract highlighted the demand for homegrown excellence, while each franchise struck a balance between international quality and domestic depth.
As Season 4 approaches, the tournament promises blockbuster cricket, fierce rivalries, and new heroes under the spotlight.