Chris Morris Predicts The ‘most Sought-after Player’ In SA20 2025 Auction

As the cricketing world turns its gaze toward Johannesburg on September 9, 2025, the highly anticipated SA20 Season 4 Auction is all set to become a watershed moment in the evolution of South Africa’s premier T20 league. Amid a deep pool of international stars, breakout South African talent, and a revamped auction structure, one name has risen above the rest: Aiden Markram.

Former South Africa all-rounder Chris Morris, known for his sharp cricketing insight and recent success in commentary and coaching roles, has confidently predicted that Markram will be the most in-demand player in this year’s auction. His reasoning? A perfect blend of performance, leadership, and marketability.

Chris Morris Predicts a Markram Mania

In a recent appearance on SuperSport, Chris Morris didn’t hesitate to single out the Sunrisers Eastern Cape captain as the top prize.

“My prediction is that Aiden Markram will be the most sought-after player this auction. There are always surprises, but he’s definitely the hot property,” Morris said.

And it’s hard to argue with that prediction.

Markram led Sunrisers Eastern Cape to back-to-back SA20 titles in 2023 and 2024, and despite their runners-up finish in 2025, his performance both as a batter and captain was nothing short of elite. His ability to anchor innings, accelerate when needed, and maintain a calm demeanor under pressure makes him an asset few franchises can overlook.

What adds spice to the auction is Markram’s decision not to remain with the Sunrisers via direct retention, opting instead to enter the open market. However, the Right to Match (RTM) card—a new addition to the SA20 auction rules this year—gives the Sunrisers a strategic edge. If another team wins the bid for Markram, the Sunrisers can swoop in and retain him by matching the final bid amount.

The drama is already palpable.

Why Markram’s Stock Is Sky-High

Markram’s SA20 credentials speak volumes:

Consistent Run Scorer: He has scored over 1100 runs in three seasons at an average close to 40 and a strike rate over 140.
Proven Leadership: Two titles in three seasons and tactical acumen have defined his captaincy.
Versatile Skillset: He offers value as a part-time off-spinner and an agile fielder.
Marketable Personality: Charismatic, articulate, and with a global fan following, Markram brings more than just cricketing value.

For franchises looking to build not just teams but brands, Markram is the ideal centerpiece.

Other Big Names in the Spotlight

While Markram may dominate the headlines, Chris Morris also shined light on a few other rising stars and potential auction disruptors:

1. Dewald Brevis – The Next Big Thing?

Nicknamed “Baby AB” for his flamboyant style reminiscent of AB de Villiers, Dewald Brevis is a dynamic batter who could spark an intense bidding war. Morris believes the Pretoria Capitals, coached by Sourav Ganguly, will be eyeing Brevis closely.

“Brevis, in particular, with the form he’s in, is absolute hot property, and given he’s from Pretoria, it would be a huge boost for the Capitals if they managed to sign him,” Morris added.

Brevis’ explosive form in domestic cricket and his ability to turn games single-handedly make him a potential franchise anchor for the next decade.

2. Matthew Breetzke – A Dark Horse Pick

Morris mentioned Matthew Breetzke as another young South African who could see aggressive bidding.

Breetzke, a stylish top-order batter, has impressed with his maturity and strokeplay. He represents a solid plan B for franchises that may miss out on Brevis or Markram.

3. Jordan Hermann – Emerging Powerhouse

Another name that’s been doing rounds in domestic circles is Jordan Hermann, especially after his unbeaten 186 against New Zealand A. At just 23, Hermann has already displayed the temperament and talent to succeed at the highest level.

Expect at least 3-4 franchises to bid for him, especially those looking to invest in youth for long-term payoffs.

Global Stars in the Mix

The 2025 auction pool features a staggering 541 players, with 72 open slots across six franchises. Among them are international stalwarts such as:

James Anderson (England): Though primarily a red-ball legend, Anderson has expressed interest in mentoring younger bowlers and potentially playing a finishing T20 stint.
Shakib Al Hasan (Bangladesh): The world’s most experienced all-rounder brings balance and guile.
Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, and Harry Brook: These Englishmen add T20 pedigree and international stardom.

Auction Dynamics: New Rules, Big Money, and Fresh Strategy

Salary Cap and Purse Overview

The collective salary purse of USD 7.37 million makes the SA20 auction the second-richest in global franchise cricket, trailing only the IPL.

Each team is allocated USD 2.3 million, with the Pretoria Capitals having the biggest purse left at USD 1.86 million and 13 slots to fill. This gives them a major tactical advantage to swoop in on marquee players like Markram or Brevis.

Right to Match (RTM) Introduced

A major talking point is the introduction of RTM cards, allowing teams to retain a previously contracted player by matching the winning bid. This will likely come into play for big-ticket names like Markram, Jansen, or Ngidi.

Under-23 Quota

Another innovation this year is the mandatory inclusion of two South African U-23 players in every 19-member squad. This move aims to bolster domestic talent development and ensure a steady pipeline for the Proteas national team.

No Rookie Draft

SA20 has done away with its rookie draft format, choosing instead to fold all talent—rookies and veterans—into a single auction event. This decision promises a more dynamic and unpredictable auction floor, where even lesser-known names could spark bidding wars.

Stephen Cook’s Vision for a Revamped SA20

Stephen Cook, Head of Cricket Operations for SA20, emphasized the league’s commitment to creating a balanced and competitive ecosystem:

“The auction structure ensures teams remain balanced and competitive while also refreshing their squads with the best young talent and overseas stars. It’s a wonderful opportunity for franchises to invest in players.”

Cook’s leadership has been pivotal in transforming SA20 into a serious player on the global T20 stage, both in terms of viewership and quality of cricket.

Franchise Strategies: What to Expect?

With varying squad gaps and financial flexibility, different franchises are expected to approach the auction with unique strategies:

Pretoria Capitals

Coach: Sourav Ganguly
Purse: USD 1.86 million
Focus: Brevis, young all-rounders, leadership figure if Markram slips

Sunrisers Eastern Cape

Might use RTM on Markram
Focus: Reinforcing bowling core and finding a solid finisher

Joburg Super Kings

Could chase overseas all-rounders
Likely to splurge on spin options

Durban’s Super Giants

Known for youth investment
May go for players like Breetzke and Hermann

Key Questions Heading into Auction Day

Will Sunrisers reclaim Markram or let him go?
Can Pretoria land both Brevis and an international superstar?
Which franchise will splurge on international veterans like Shakib or Livingstone?
How will teams balance U-23 requirements with top-tier talent?

A Defining Auction for SA20’s Future

The SA20 2025 auction is not just a player selection event; it’s a strategic battleground where franchises will aim to shape their destiny for the upcoming season. With Aiden Markram’s auction presence, Dewald Brevis’ stardom, and a new set of rules reshaping the landscape, this year’s auction could be the most thrilling in SA20 history.

Mark your calendars for September 9, because Johannesburg will host more than just an auction—it will host a cricketing spectacle that could redefine South Africa’s T20 future.

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