The SA20 Season 4 player auction has shattered records, with Pretoria Capitals spending a staggering R16.5 million to secure Dewald Brevis. The fee makes him the most expensive player in the league’s history and highlights the 21-year-old as the poster boy for South Africa’s next generation.

Durban’s Super Giants were also willing to spend big, paying R14 million for Aiden Markram. Wiaan Mulder joined Joburg Super Kings for R9 million, while Nandre Burger (R6.3 million) and Matthew Breetzke (R6.1 million) were among other high-profile buys. Rassie van der Dussen, Ottneil Baartman, and Anrich Nortje all commanded over R5 million each, underlining the value franchises are placing on South Africa’s domestic stars.

In a sign of the league’s future-focused strategy, teams invested heavily in youth. A total of R22.8 million was spent on 12 under-23 players, reflecting confidence in the country’s talent pipeline.

Yet the auction also brought sharp contrasts, with several established international names going unsold. South Africa’s white-ball captain Temba Bavuma was overlooked once again, while England veterans James Anderson and Moeen Ali failed to attract bids. Jason Roy and Andile Phehlukwayo were also among the high-profile players to miss out.

The pattern suggests franchises are prioritising younger players and long-term value over reputation alone. Brevis’ record-breaking fee is both a signal of belief in his star power and a statement of intent from the league. SA20 is investing in its future, even if that means leaving household names behind.