The IPL 2026 mini-auction in Abu Dhabi proved to be a life-changing moment for Uttar Pradesh’s , whose rapid rise in Indian domestic cricket culminated in a staggering INR 14.20 crore move to five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK). While several big names, including Cameron Green, attracted hefty bids, it was the uncapped teenager crossing the INR 10 crore mark that truly stunned the auction room.
Veer was with his Uttar Pradesh teammates at the time of the auction, including Kolkata Knight
Riders (KKR) star Rinku Singh. The group followed the proceedings live on their mobile phones as Veer’s price climbed dramatically, with Rinku and others soaking in the moment as the bids escalated.
The 19-year-old left-arm spinner, who also bats left-handed, entered the auction with a base price of INR 30 lakh. An early bidding war between Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Mumbai Indians (MI) quickly pushed his price upward. Once the bidding crossed INR 1.20 crore, CSK entered the fray, signalling serious intent to secure the young all-rounder.
What followed was an intense battle involving Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). With every raise, Veer’s valuation surged beyond expectations. SRH appeared to have sealed the deal with a bid of INR 14 crore, but CSK displayed unwavering resolve, returning with a final bid of INR 14.20 crore to land the uncapped youngster.
A video of the moment soon went viral on social media, showing Veer seated on a bus alongside Rinku and other teammates. As the bids rose rapidly, Veer appeared visibly overwhelmed yet elated. Rinku, smiling, asked him how he was feeling, to which Veer responded with a simple but heartfelt, ‘Maza aa raha hai bhaiya’.
Veer’s statistics help explain the intense interest from franchises. In nine domestic T20 matches, he has scored 112 runs at a strike rate of 167.16 and picked up 12 wickets. His dual ability as a left-arm spinner and a power-hitting lower-order batter makes him a valuable asset in the shortest format.
CSK are reportedly viewing Veer as a long-term successor to Ravindra Jadeja, aligning with the franchise’s growing emphasis on youth development. Under the mentorship of MS Dhoni, Veer now has a golden opportunity to hone his skills and establish himself on the biggest stage in Indian cricket.
