2) Sandeep Narwal (Telugu Titans) – Rs 45.5 lakhs
The best defender from last season, Sandeep Narwal, was always going to fetch one of the highest prices after Patna Pirates opted not to retain his services for the upcoming season. Patna's loss turned out to be Telugu Titans' gain as they shook off competition from all the other teams to sign the youngster for the upcoming season. The Titans showed their determination to sign Sandeep by bidding Rs 45.5 lakhs at the auction to blow the competition out of the water.
Along with bags of talent, Sandeep brings with him excellent leadership skills, which were on display in the absence of Manpreet Singh in Patna's title-winning campaign. An all-rounder by trade, Sandeep is equally adept at raiding as he is at defending, which he proved in the 46 matches played so far, scoring 147 raid points and 119 defence points.
Having retained two promising raiders in Rahul Chaudhari and Sukesh Hegde, Telugu Titans spent heavily for defensive recruits and young Sandeep will perfectly complement the experienced Jasmer in defence while also helping out his new teammates in raids.