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 brilliance and making some surprising calls. While many players secured lucrative contracts, some big names shockingly went unsold, marking what could have been 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.
Famous faces left unsold: IPL 2025 mega auction
Several IPL regulars who have been mainstays in recent seasons failed to attract any offers this year. This surprising result has raised questions about their future in the tournament. Factors such as declining form, lack of recent match practice and high base prices played a significant role in these players being overlooked.
Among the notable unsold players were seasoned veterans and emerging stars whose inability to adapt to the fast-paced T20 format may have cost them a place. Teams appeared more focused on building balanced squads, prioritizing specialist players over established names with inconsistent performances. For some players, the high base prices they set seemed to work against them. Franchises, especially at the end of Day 2, were more careful with their remaining budget, choosing to invest in lesser-known talent or younger players with potential. This left several high-profile players out of contract.
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 not being sold, many of these players still have the skills and experience to form a formidable XI. Here is a hypothetical lineup of unsold key players from the IPL 2025 mega auction:
1. Prithvi Shaw
Role: Opening the dough
Prithvi Shaw remains a dynamic batsman known for his aggressive approach in the powerplay. Despite some inconsistent outings in IPL 2024, he showed flashes of brilliance that highlighted his ability to dominate bowling attacks. Concerns about his ability and durability may have dampened expectations at the auction. However, his overall domestic performances indicate his readiness to reclaim his status as a powerhouse enforcer.
2. David Warner
Role: Opening batter (captain)
David Warner, one of the most successful batsmen of the IPL, continues to deliver consistently. His leadership and experience make him a valuable asset, especially for teams looking for stability at the top of the order. Warner’s age may have raised questions, but his ability to anchor the innings and adapt to challenging situations ensures that he remains fit in the shorter format.
3. Yash Dhull
Role: High order dough
Yash Dhull is an emerging talent whose temperament and technique have impressed in domestic cricket. Although his IPL opportunities were limited in 2023 and he failed to get a game in the next edition, his potential to play the anchor role in the top order makes him a valuable prospect. Teams often look to groom such players for long-term success, given his ability to handle pressure.
4. Daryl Mitchell
Role: Comprehensive
Daryl Mitchell’s versatility as a medium bowler and medium pace bowler makes him a reliable option in T20 cricket. Despite limited match-winning performance for his franchise in IPL 2024, his consistent performances in international cricket highlight his ability to adapt to different roles. His ability to handle pressure situations adds to his credentials as a utility player.
5. Sarfaraz Khan
Role: Medium order dough
Sarfaraz Khan it has built a reputation as a household machine. However, translating this success to the IPL has been challenging. His ability to spin effectively and anchor the innings gives him an edge, although questions about his suitability in high-pressure T20 scenarios persist.
6. Sikandar Raza
Role: Comprehensive
Sikandar Raza showed his potential in IPL 2024 with impressive performances. His off-spin movement and ability to finish games with the bat make him an all-rounder. While consistency remains a factor, his experience and calm demeanor in crisis situations enhance his value in T20 cricket.
7. KS Bharat
Role: Wicketkeeper-Batter
KS Bharat is a consistent performer with the bat and a reliable presence behind the stumps. While his batting style is better suited to stabilizing the innings, it may not match the explosive demands of the IPL. However, his goalkeeping ability makes him a strong back-up option in any team.
8. Shardul Thakur
Role: Comprehensive
Shardul Thakur is a proven match winner with his ability to pick up important wickets and contribute valuable runs in the order. His ability to perform in high-pressure situations, along with his experience, makes him a very reliable option for any team.
9. Jason Behrendorff
Role: Left arm pacer
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 in IPL 2024 showed his effectiveness, especially with the new ball.
10. Piyush Chawla
Role: Leg-Other
Piyush Chawla defied expectations with his consistent wicket-taking ability in IPL 2024. His experience and control in the middle order make him a reliable spinner. Despite his age, Chawla’s tactical acumen and ability to deliver under pressure remain unparalleled.
11. Shivam Mavi
Role: Fast Bowler
Shivam Mavi’s pace and swing make him a promising prospect, although his IPL career was marred by inconsistency that included a lack of participation in the last two seasons. His ability to play on the powerplay and handle the death passes with composure underlines his potential, making him a player to watch for the future.
