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The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction concluded after two action-packed days in Jeddah, where ten franchises engaged in intense bidding wars, displaying tactical ingenuity and taking surprising decisions. While many players secured lucrative contracts, a few big names remained unsold, marking what could be the end of their IPL careers. The auction not only highlighted the teams’ strategic approaches, but also served as a reminder of the fierce competition for limited spots in the league.
Unsold familiar faces: IPL 2025 mega auction
Several IPL regulars, who have been stalwarts in recent seasons, have failed to attract any offers this year. This surprising result raised questions about their future in the tournament. Factors such as declining form, lack of recent match training and high base prices have played a significant role in the neglect of these players.
Notable unsold players included both seasoned veterans and emerging stars, whose inability to adapt to the fast-paced T20 format may have cost them a place. Teams seemed more focused on building balanced squads, prioritizing specialist players over established names with inconsistent performances. For several players, the high base prices they set seemed to work against them. Franchises, especially towards the end of Day 2, have been more cautious with their remaining budgets, choosing to invest in lesser-known talents or younger players with potential. This left several top cricketers without contracts.
ALSO READ: IPL 2025 Mega Auction: Complete list of unsold players along with their base price
IPL 2025: Best XI of unsold players from mega auction
Despite being unsold, many of these players still possess the skills and experience to form a formidable playing XI. Here is a hypothetical list of the best unsold players from the IPL 2025 mega auction:
1. Prithvi Shaw
Role: Opening paste
Prithvi Shaw remains a dynamic hitter known for his aggressive approach on the power play. Despite some inconsistent outings in IPL 2024, he displayed flashes of brilliance that highlighted his ability to dominate bowling attacks. Concerns over his fitness and consistency could have tempered expectations at the auction. However, his overall domestic performance shows his desire to reclaim his status as a power play enforcer.
2. David Warner
Role: Opening batsman (captain)
David Warner, one of the most successful batters in the IPL, continues to perform consistently. His leadership and experience make him a valuable asset, particularly for teams seeking stability at the top of the order. Warner’s age may have raised questions, but his ability to anchor the innings and adapt to difficult situations ensures that he remains relevant in the shortest format.
3. Yash Dhull
Role: Top notch dough
Yash Dhull is an emerging talent whose temperament and technique have impressed domestic cricket. Although his IPL opportunities were limited in 2023 and failed to get a match in the next edition, his potential to play the anchor role in the top order makes him a valuable prospect. Teams often look to prepare these players for long-term success, given their ability to handle pressure.
4. Daryl Mitchell
Role: Versatile
Daryl Mitchell’s versatility as a middle-order hitter and medium-pace bowler makes him a reliable option in T20 cricket. Despite limited performance in terms of wins for his franchise in IPL 2024, his consistent performances in international cricket highlight his ability to adapt to various roles. His knack for handling pressure situations adds to his credentials as a utility player.
5. Sarfaraz Khan
Role: Intermediate order dough
Sarfaraz Khan has built a reputation as a national machine. However, translating this success into the IPL has been a challenge. His ability to play spin effectively and anchor the innings gives him an advantage, although questions about his adaptability in high-pressure T20 scenarios persist.
6. Sikandar Raza
Role: Versatile
Sikandar Raza demonstrated his potential in IPL 2024 with some impactful performances. His off-spin and ability to finish games with the bat make him a multi-faceted player. While consistency remains a factor, his experience and calmness in critical situations enhances his value in T20 cricket.
7. KS Bharat
Role: Wicketkeeper-batsman
KS Bharat is a consistent performer with the bat and a reliable presence behind the stumps. Although his batting style is more suited to stabilizing the innings, it might not match the explosive demands of the IPL. His skills as a goalkeeper, however, make him a solid backup option on any team.
8. Shardul Thakur
Role: Versatile
Shardul Thakur is a proven match winner with his knack for picking up crucial wickets and contributing valuable runs down the order. His ability to perform in high pressure situations, coupled with his experience, makes him a very reliable option for any team.
9. Jason Behrendorff
Role: Left arm stimulator
Jason Behrendorff brings variety to any bowling attack with his left-arm pace and ability to swing the ball in the powerplay. Although injuries have hampered his progress at times, his performances at IPL 2024 have demonstrated his effectiveness, especially with the new ball.
10. Piyush Chawla
Role: Leg spinner
Piyush Chawla has defied expectations with his consistent ability to take wickets in IPL 2024. His experience and control in the middle overs makes him a reliable spinner. Despite his age, Chawla’s tactical acumen and ability to react under pressure remains unrivaled.
11. Shivam Mavi
Role: Quick Launcher
Shivam Mavi’s pace and swing make him a promising prospect, even though his IPL career has been marred by inconsistencies that have included zero appearances in the last two seasons. His ability to play on the power play and handle death overs with composure underlines his potential, making him a player to watch for the future.
