Kartik Sharma is a 19-year-old wicketkeeper-batter from Rajasthan who has rapidly emerged as one of India’s most exciting domestic prospects. A right-handed, batting-first keeper, Kartik built his reputation through consistent performances across formats, including three first-class centuries and a List A average above 55. His ability to anchor in red-ball cricket and accelerate in T20s, where he strikes above 160, marks him as a multi-format asset rather than a white-ball specialist.

Chennai Super Kings secured him for ₹14.20 crore at the IPL 2026 auction, making him one of the most expensive uncapped players in league history. The investment reflects long-term vision. Kartik combines temperament, clean strokeplay, and athletic wicketkeeping, fitting seamlessly into CSK’s philosophy of grooming young Indian core players. At 19, he is not just a prospect; he is a structured bet on the future.