Uncapped wicketkeeper-batsman of Rajasthan, Karthik SharmaHas become one of the hottest homegrown talents ipl 2026 auction On 16th December.
Known for his explosive power-hitting, the 19-year-old has capitalized on his strong performances to successfully complete trials for several top franchises. Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) And recent first-class centuries. Ahead of the auction, Sharma candidly discussed the intensive testing process, revealed which high-profile teams showed interest and opened up about his conversations with coaches and mentors. Notably, he didn’t hesitate in declaring his longtime favorite franchise, while also sharing an encouraging exchange with one of the league’s biggest names.
Karthik Sharma’s comprehensive ipl ffield trial experience
interest all around Karthik SharmaWho has set his base price at a modest ₹30 lakh, has been performing intensely, which has led to him being invited for trials by more than half the franchises in the league. This flurry of invitations underlines the high demand for young, dual-skilled homegrown talent, particularly wicketkeeper-batsmen, in the IPL.
Karthik seen in an interview for Game Changer YT Channel Where he confirmed that he has spent considerable time showcasing his skills in front of the coaching staffs and recruitment teams of several major franchises, indicating serious interest from teams looking to secure high-potential uncapped players. Karthik provided the full list of teams that have invited him, saying:
“I have participated in trials for six to seven franchises so far. Hyderabad, Mumbai Indians, Chennai, RCB, RR, Delhi. My practice matches in Chennai have been good. Mahi bhaiya did not come. But the other staff were there and they said they enjoyed my batting.”
This extensive list, including auction giants like CSK, MI and defending champions RCB, reflects the level of attention they have received. His recent strong domestic form, including scoring 133 runs at a strike rate of 160.24 in the SMAT and scoring two first-class centuries (120 vs Delhi and 139 vs Mumbai), cementing his position as a key target in the players’ uncapped set (Set 8).
Also read: Cameron Green reveals the real reason behind being listed as a ‘batsman’ in the IPL 2026 auction
Karthik’s favorite IPL team before 2026 mini-auction
In a big reveal, Karthik revealed his favorite team, which is especially relevant considering the upcoming auction. The young star openly expressed his deep admiration for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), The franchise that won its first title in 2025. This preference could subtly affect the bidding dynamics if RCB goes in to acquire him. Additionally, Karthik shared a valuable mentorship experience he gained during the testing process, receiving direct advice from the experienced wicketkeeper-batsman and RCB mentor. Dinesh KarthikThe conversation highlighted specific aspects of his game that the franchise is keen to develop,
Karthik opened up about his loyalty to the franchise and the encouraging advice he has received:
“My favorite franchise is RCB and I got a message from DK sir… DK bhaiya spoke to me during the trials. He said I was batting well and advised me to focus more on keeping.”
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When Karthik was asked which team he would like to play with, he said that there is nothing like that, I just want to play IPL.
When he was asked about his favorite team in IPL, he supported RCB.
VC: Game Changer YT Channel (@manoj_dimri,#IPL2026 #IPLAuction #IPL #rcb #Cricket https://t.co/SKmGW27gLF pic.twitter.com/7eIynbQDc1-SurendeRR Singh 💗 (@Surende26790545) 13 December 2025
The advice to focus on keeping is highly strategic, as his primary role in the IPL will be to provide a reliable wicketkeeping option alongside his proven batting talent. Karthik’s success against leading domestic teams, coupled with the apparent interest from teams like RCB and the positive response from the CSK staff, strongly suggests that his name, listed with a base price of ₹30 lakh, will soon become one of the most aggressive bids in the uncapped category of the IPL 2026 auction.
