India all-rounder Shahbaz Ahmed, who is currently part of the Lucknow Super Giants setup for IPL 2026, became the most expensive acquisition on the opening day of the Bengal Pro T20 League auction. The 12.20 lakh retention price came through the Right To Match mechanism, which saw Shrachi Tribes Rarh Tigers keep him after Sunday’s bidding process.
Shahbaz Ahmed tops the auction after Right To Match
The auction is being staged for the first time since the league’s start, and it opened on Sunday with franchises showing urgency ahead of the tournament’s third season. The Bengal Pro T20 League is set to begin in June, and the early day activity reflected that all teams were looking to lock in quality talent quickly.
- Shahbaz Ahmed was retained by Shrachi Tribes Rarh Tigers using the Right To Match option for Rs 12.20 lakh.
- The auction is taking place for the first time since the league’s inception, setting the tone for a competitive build-up to the third season.
- The tournament is scheduled to start in June.
Other notable buys across franchises
Along with Shahbaz’s record price, the opening day also featured several other high-value signings as teams moved to strengthen key roles ahead of the Bengal Pro T20 League.
- Wicketkeeper-batter Abishek Porel was picked up by Lux Shyam Kolkata Tigers for Rs 10.40 lakh.
- India pacer Mukesh Kumar was retained by Sobisco Smashers Malda for Rs 9.60 lakh.
Double impact for Shahbaz on Sunday—auction and IPL 2026
Sunday proved especially rewarding for Shahbaz Ahmed, with success extending beyond the auction room and into match day performance in IPL 2026. In his outing against Chennai Super Kings, he delivered a standout all-round display.
- Batting: Shahbaz struck an unbeaten 43 off 25 balls, hitting three fours and three sixes.
- Bowling: he also finished with two wickets.
- Context: the performance came against Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2026, further underlining his impact in all facets of the game.
