Two-Time Champion Captain Parts Ways With SRH, Set To Enter Auction

Aiden Markram played a crucial role in making Sunrisers Eastern Cape champions twice in the SA20 League, in the 2023 and 2024 seasons.

For the upcoming season, Sunrisers Eastern Cape have retained only Tristan Stubbs.

Source : PTI

Aiden Markram, who delivered impressive performances for Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2025, has now officially parted ways with the Sunrisers Eastern Cape franchise ahead of the SA20 2026 season.

Under his leadership, Sunrisers Eastern Cape clinched the SA20 title twice. Previously, Markram was also released by Sunrisers Hyderabad for IPL 2025, after which he was bought by Lucknow Super Giants during the mega auction.

Now, Markram is all set to enter the SA20 2026 auction, which will take place on September 9. The new season of SA20 will begin on 26 December 2025.

Markram’s Performance for Sunrisers Eastern Cape

Aiden Markram played a crucial role in making Sunrisers Eastern Cape champions twice in the SA20 League, in the 2023 and 2024 seasons. During his tenure, Markram played a total of 36 matches for the franchise, amassing 967 runs at an average of 34.53.

He registered one century and five half-centuries in the tournament, showcasing his consistency with the bat.

🚨 BREAKING NEWS 🚨

Aiden Markram and Dewald Brevis will both be heading into the SA20 Auction

Some massive signings have been made

Auction on 9 September 2025 pic.twitter.com/QyEym5lLiu

— Werner (@Werries_) July 22, 2025

Players Retained by Sunrisers Eastern Cape

For the upcoming season, Sunrisers Eastern Cape have retained only Tristan Stubbs. Additionally, they have pre-signed England's Jonny Bairstow, Afghanistan’s AM Ghazanfar, and New Zealand pacer Adam Milne.

Marco Jansen has been included as a wild card pick. The franchise will also have the Right to Match (RTM) card available to potentially bring back Aiden Markram during the auction process.

CSA Retention Rules Ahead of SA20 2026

Cricket South Africa (CSA) has enforced that no franchise can retain more than six players.

Furthermore, each franchise is allowed to sign up to seven overseas players. Teams must also select a minimum of 11 South African cricketers. These retention and squad formation rules aim to maintain competitive balance and offer opportunities to local talent in the tournament.