Prashant Veer, the uncapped all-rounder from Uttar Pradesh who created headlines at the IPL 2026 mini-auction after being snapped up by Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for a massive Rs 14.20 crore. The signing marks CSK’s highest-ever bid for an Indian player, surpassing their previous record purchase of Deepak Chahar for Rs 14 crore.
Who is Prashant Veer?
Prashant Veer is a slow left-arm orthodox spinner and left-handed batter, known for his ability to contribute in both departments. Though relatively new to top-tier domestic cricket, he has built a strong reputation in T20 competitions, particularly through his performances in the Uttar Pradesh T20 League and the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT).
At just 20 years of age, Veer entered the IPL 2026 auction with a base price of Rs 30 lakh, but heavy interest from franchises quickly turned him into one of the most expensive uncapped Indians in IPL history.
Strong T20 numbers back the hype
Despite limited first-class exposure, Veer’s T20 record highlights his all-round potential. Across 31 T20 matches, he has scored 655 runs at an average of 34.47 and a strike rate of 142.39, while also picking up 19 wickets at a respectable economy rate of 7.48.
In the 2025 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Veer delivered an impressive all-round season, scoring 112 runs at a strike rate above 160 and taking nine wickets at an economy of 6.76, underlining his value as a dual-skill cricketer.
Path to the IPL
Veer’s rise has been closely tracked by IPL franchises. He has previously worked as a net bowler with teams such as Kolkata Knight Riders and Sunrisers Hyderabad, and also attended trials with Chennai Super Kings. That early exposure to the IPL environment appears to have paid off, with CSK now placing a major bet on his long-term potential.
Why CSK went big
CSK’s aggressive bid of Rs 14.20 crore reflects their confidence in Veer’s all-round skill set, temperament, and adaptability to T20 cricket. His left-arm spin adds variety to the bowling attack, while his ability to score quickly down the order aligns with CSK’s preference for multi-dimensional players.
The purchase also makes Veer the most expensive Indian buy in CSK’s auction history, overtaking Deepak Chahar’s Rs 14 crore deal.
A breakout moment
For Prashant Veer, the move represents a dramatic leap from domestic promise to IPL spotlight. For CSK, it signals a willingness to invest heavily in young Indian all-rounders as part of their future planning.
As IPL 2026 approaches, all eyes will be on how the UP all-rounder justifies his Rs 14.20 crore price tag in yellow.