The countdown to the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction has begun, and a young name from Rajasthan is dominating pre-auction conversations. Kartik Sharma, a 20-year-old wicketkeeper-batter, is being tipped by experts and former stars to become the most expensive uncapped Indian player when the bidding war commences in Abu Dhabi on December 16.
Who Is Kartik Sharma? The Rising Star From Rajasthan
Kartik Sharma, a fearless middle-order batter known for his clean ball-striking, has rapidly climbed the ranks in domestic cricket. Representing Rajasthan, the right-hander has played 11 T20s, amassing 316 runs at a stunning strike rate of 164.58. His ability to clear the ropes is a standout feature, with 27 sixes and two half-centuries already in his short T20 career.
His reputation isn't built on T20s alone. In the ongoing 2025-26 Ranji Trophy season, Sharma has already slammed three centuries, proving his versatility across formats. Across 28 domestic matches in all formats, he has hit a remarkable 77 sixes, a statistic that has turned the heads of IPL scouts and legends alike.
Why Experts Like Pietersen, Ashwin Are Raving About Him
Sharma's explosive talent hasn't gone unnoticed by the cricketing elite. Former England captain Kevin Pietersen shared a video of Sharma hitting a pacer straight down the ground for a massive six on November 20, captioned with a curious "Who is this?" This act put a global spotlight on the youngster.
Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin dedicated time to praise Sharma on his YouTube channel. Ashwin highlighted Sharma's "baggage-free" approach and his power-hitting prowess in the middle order, a crucial role in modern T20s. He even drew comparisons with Chennai Super Kings' own young gun, Ayush Mhatre.
Analyst Aakash Chopra has made the boldest prediction, suggesting Sharma could be at the centre of a fierce bidding war between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Both franchises, having retained their core, enter the auction with the largest purses and a clear need to bolster their middle order.
The Perfect Fit: Why KKR and CSK Are Likely Suitors
The upcoming auction strategy for several teams revolves around strengthening their batting firepower. With most franchises opting for retention stability, teams like KKR and CSK have significant funds to spend and specific gaps to fill, particularly in the middle and lower-middle order.
Sharma's profile as a wicketkeeper-batter with a high strike rate and six-hitting ability makes him a doubly valuable asset. He fits the mold of the modern finisher—a player who can accelerate from ball one and handle pressure situations. His performances in the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy have served as the perfect audition tape just weeks before the auction.
While he attended closed-door trials last season without finding a buyer, his consistent performances over the last year have solidified his standing. As the auction in Abu Dhabi's Etihad Arena approaches on December 16, all eyes will be on whether the predictions around Kartik Sharma, Rajasthan's newest cricketing sensation, turn into a multi-crore reality.
