The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction has concluded after two action-packed days in Jeddah, where ten franchises engaged in intense bidding wars, displayed tactical brilliance and made stunning calls. While many players have bagged lucrative contracts, a few big names have surprisingly gone unsold, which could spell 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.
Familiar faces left unsold: IPL 2025 mega auction
Several IPL regulars who have been mainstays in recent seasons have failed to attract any bids this year. This surprising result raised questions about their future in the tournament. Factors such as a drop in form, lack of recent game experience and a high base price have played a major 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 cost them their place. Teams seem to have focused more on building balanced squads, prioritizing specialist players over established names with inconsistent performances. For several players, the high base price they set worked against them. Franchises, especially at the end of Day 2, were more cautious with their remaining budget and chose to invest in lesser-known talent or young players with potential. This left several top cricketers without contracts.
READ ALSO: IPL 2025 Mega Auction: Complete list of sold players with their base price
IPL 2025: Best XI Unsold Players from Mega Auction
Despite not being sold, many of these players still have the skills and experience to form a strong playing XI. Here is a hypothetical list of the top players sold from the IPL 2025 mega auction:
1. Prithvi Shaw
Role: Unfold the dough
Prithvi Shaw remains a dynamic striker known for his aggressive approach to the game. Despite some inconsistent outings in IPL 2024, he showed flashes of brilliance that showed his ability to dominate bowling attacks. Concerns about his fitness and durability may dampen auction expectations. However, his overall domestic performances show his readiness to reassert his status as a playmaker.
2. David Warner
Role: Open Batter (Captain)
David Warner, one of the most successful batsmen of the IPL, continues to be consistent. 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 raise questions, but his ability to get anchored and adapt to difficult situations ensures that he remains relevant in the shortest format.
3. Yash Dall
Role: Top battery
Yash Dall is a young talent whose flair and technique has impressed in domestic cricket. Although his IPL opportunities in 2023 were limited and he failed to get a game in the next edition, his potential to play an anchor role in the top order makes him a valuable prospect. Teams often try to prepare such players for long-term success, given his ability to handle pressure.
4. Daryl Mitchell
Role: Universal
Daryl Mitchell’s versatility as a middle-order batsman and medium-pace bowler makes him a reliable option in T20 cricket. Despite a limited-overs 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 reputation as a service player.
5. Sarfarozkhan
Role: Medium dough
Sarfaraz Khan has gained fame as a domestic driving car. However, translating this success to the IPL has been difficult. His ability to play effective spin and anchor gives him an edge, though questions remain about his adaptability in high-pressure T20 scenarios.
6. Sikandar Raza
Role: Universal
Sikandar Raza has shown his potential in IPL 2024 with impressive performances. His off-spin and ability to complete plays with the racket make him a versatile player. While consistency remains a factor, his experience and calm demeanor in crunch situations will enhance his value in T20 cricket.
7. KS Bharat
Role: Wicketkeeper-Batter
KS Bharat is a solid performer with the bat and a reliable presence behind the stumps. Although his batting style is better suited to stabilize the innings, it may not suit the explosive demands of the IPL. His skills as a goalkeeper, however, make him a strong backup option in any team.
8. Shardul Thakur
Role: Universal
Shardul Thakur is a proven match winner with his knack for taking important wickets and contributing at the bottom of the order. His ability to perform in high pressure situations, combined with his experience, makes him a very reliable option for any team.
9. Jason Berendorf
Role: Left arm pacer
Jason Behrendorff brings variety to any bowling attack with his left arm pace and ability to hit the ball. Although injuries have hampered his progress from time to time, his IPL 2024 performances have shown his effectiveness, especially with the new ball.
10. Piyush Chawla
Role: Leg-spinner
Piyush Chawla defied expectations with his consistent performances in IPL 2024. His experience and control in the middle makes him a reliable spinner. Despite his age, Chawla’s tactical acumen and ability to deliver under pressure remain unmatched.
11. Shivam Mavi
Role: Fast bowler
Shivam Mavi’s pace and movement make him a promising prospect, though his IPL career has been inconsistent with his absence in the last two seasons. His ability to play and calmly deal with death underscores his potential and makes him a player to watch in the future.
