In a blockbuster announcement, Durban Super Giants (DSG) have officially named Aiden Markram as their captain for the upcoming SA20 2025-26 season. The Proteas T20I skipper was bought for a record-breaking R14 million at the SA20 auction earlier this month — the highest-ever price for a DSG player.
Markram, who previously led Sunrisers Eastern Cape (SEC) to back-to-back SA20 titles in 2023 and 2024, will now take charge of a completely revamped Super Giants squad. This is a significant move for DSG, who are still chasing their maiden SA20 title after finishing as runners-up last season.
The bidding war for Markram was one of the most intense moments of the SA20 2025 auction. DSG and Pretoria Capitals went head-to-head, with DSG finally securing the star batter for R14 million, surpassing the R10M milestone for the first time in SA20 history.
Speaking about his move, Markram expressed excitement about leading a new-look squad:
“I enjoy consistency and building strong relationships within a team. Playing for the Super Giants in both IPL and SA20 gives me that stability and connection with the group. I am excited to lead this talented squad and hopefully take DSG to their first title,” said Markram.
Markram move strengthens the bond between Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Durban Super Giants, both owned by the RPSG Group. After joining LSG for ₹2 crore in the IPL 2025 auction and scoring 445 runs in 13 matches at a strike rate of 148.83, Markram form makes him one of the most valuable short-format players right now.
Aiden Markram. That's it, that's the 𝘊𝘢𝘱𝘵𝘢𝘪𝘯💙 pic.twitter.com/fKVXYZRJc4
— Durban's Super Giants (@DurbansSG) September 13, 2025
Despite the rise of franchise leagues, Markram reiterated his commitment to international cricket.
“To each their own, but for me, international cricket will always remain a priority. If you can balance playing leagues and still represent your country, that’s a blessing,” Markram told TOI.
He also emphasized that South Africa focus remains on winning major ICC trophies, especially after their World Test Championship (WTC) triumph earlier this year and a runner-up finish in the 2024 T20 World Cup.
Alongside Markram, DSG also signed pacer Gerald Coetzee (R7.4 million) and teenage sensation Kwena Maphaka (R2.3 million). With Lance Klusener retained as head coach and several domestic stars like Ethan Bosch, Marques Ackerman, and Andile Simelane strengthening the bench, DSG look ready to challenge for the title this season.
With Markram at the helm, DSG have a proven leader with a history of winning big tournaments. Fans are eagerly waiting to see how the team performs under his leadership, especially after last season heartbreak in the final against SEC.
