The Bengal T20 League completed its biggest-ever player auction with more than 1,000 cricketers entering the pool and franchises spending over ₹4.5 crore across men’s and women’s teams ahead of the 2026 season.
The auction highlighted the growing popularity of franchise cricket in Bengal, with strong investments in both established domestic stars and young emerging talent. More than 250 players secured contracts during the event as franchises finalized their squads for the upcoming campaign.
Mita Paul Emerges as Top Women’s Pick
Bengal cricketer Mita Paul became the highest-valued player in the women’s auction after being retained by Lux Shyam Kolkata Tigers for ₹3 lakh through the Right to Match (RTM) card.
The women’s auction witnessed strong competition among franchises, with more than 10 players crossing the ₹2 lakh mark. Notably, every player in the A+ category found buyers, reflecting the increasing depth and competitiveness of women’s cricket in Bengal.
One of the standout stories from the auction was 13-year-old Ariktha Manna, who earned a ₹1.55 lakh deal with Rashmi Medinipur Wizards despite a base price of just ₹30,000. Her rise underlined the league’s focus on nurturing young talent.
Shahbaz Ahmed Tops Men’s Auction
In the men’s category, India and IPL all-rounder Shahbaz Ahmed emerged as the costliest player after being retained by Shrachi Tribes Rarh Tigers for ₹12.20 lakh through RTM.
Several players crossed the ₹8 lakh mark as franchises aggressively pursued experienced domestic performers, IPL players, and promising youngsters.
Abhishek Porel, Mukesh Kumar, Sudip Kumar Gharami and Saksham Chaudhary were among the major names to attract significant bids during the auction process.
Strong Push for Grassroots Development
The league continued to emphasize youth development as every men’s team was required to include at least two U19 players, while every women’s squad needed a minimum of two U15 cricketers.
Across the auctions, franchises completed 136 signings in the men’s category and 128 signings in the women’s competition.
Officials from the Cricket Association of Bengal said the strong response reflected the growing excitement surrounding the league and its role in creating opportunities for players across the state.
Franchises Eye Bigger Season
Teams including Novus Purulia Royals, Adamas Howrah Warriors, Lux Shyam Kolkata Tigers, Murshidabad Kueens, Rashmi Medinipur Wizards, Servotech Siliguri Strikers, Shrachi Tribes Rarh Tigers and Sobisco Smashers Malda all strengthened their squads during the auction.
Franchise owners and coaches expressed confidence that the auction format would improve competitiveness while also helping Bengal’s cricket ecosystem grow further.
The league has increasingly become an important platform for players hoping to break into higher levels of domestic and franchise cricket.
The Way Ahead
The record-breaking auction has added fresh momentum to the Bengal T20 League as it prepares for another major season in 2026.
With rising investments, stronger grassroots focus, and growing recognition for women’s cricket, the tournament continues to establish itself as one of India’s most promising regional franchise leagues.
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