Indian-born USA cricketer Saurabh Netravalkar has shared his thoughts on going unsold in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 auction with a base price of INR 30 lakhs. Despite being one of the promising players in the international circuit, Netravalkar’s name did not make it to the final roster for IPL 2025.
Saurabh Netravalkar speaks on IPL 2025 mega auction experience
Netravalkar expressed gratitude for being shortlisted in the final auction list and acknowledged that, while he had hopes, the player pool was highly competitive with many top players not making the cut. He looks forward to watching the season, which promises high-quality cricket, and plans to continue working hard to improve and return stronger next year.
“Firstly, grateful for getting shortlisted in the final auction list. Yes, the child in me had hopes for sure! But, it was a high-quality player pool with so many top players also failing to make the cut, so I completely understand. Really looking forward to watch the season which I’m sure will be filled with the highest quality of cricket, and personally I’ll keep working harder and trying to get better and come back stronger hopefully next year,” Netravalkar said in an exclusive interview with the Times of India.
Netravalkar’s talent is undeniable, especially after his heroics in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. During the historic match against Pakistan, the USA team managed to win by just 5 runs in a thrilling Super Over, with Netravalkar himself bowling the decisive Super Over for his side. His performance was instrumental in the USA’s victory, and it was a display of his immense skill and composure under pressure, earning him recognition on the global stage.
A journey from India to USA with impressive international career stats
Netravalkar’s journey in cricket began in India, where he played for the Under-19 Indian team and earned the title of the highest wicket-taker for India in the 2010 ICC Under-19 World Cup in New Zealand, with 9 wickets. However, his cricketing journey took an international turn when he moved to the USA in 2015 to pursue higher education. He made his debut for the USA national team in March 2019 and has since established himself as one of the key players for the team.
Netravalkar has had a remarkable career so far in both One Day Internationals (ODIs) and T20 Internationals (T20Is). In ODIs, he has played 56 matches, taking 88 wickets at an impressive average of 22.32. Meanwhile, in T20Is, he has featured in 36 matches, claiming 36 wickets. His leadership qualities have also been recognized, as he has captained the USA team in several matches, showcasing his tactical acumen and experience on the field.
Bollywood actress Urvashi Rautela, widely recognized for her stunning performances on screen, has once again made headlines, but this time, for her passion for cricket. The actress recently shared pictures with two cricketing stars: Australia all-rounder Tim David and West Indies batter Rovman Powell on her Instagram account. Known for her love of the sport, Urvashi’s latest interactions with these cricketers have sparked excitement among both cricket and Bollywood fans alike.
Urvashi Rautela’s undying passion for cricket
Urvashi has long been known for her love of cricket, and her support for the game is well-documented. The actress frequently shows her enthusiasm by attending cricket matches and expressing her admiration for players. Her social media accounts are filled with posts and updates related to cricket, where she can often be seen cheering for India and other teams. Whether it’s supporting the Indian cricket team during international matches or promoting the spirit of the game in interviews, Urvashi’s dedication to cricket shines through. Her latest interaction with David and Powell only highlights her unwavering passion for the sport.
Urvashi Rautela chills out with Tim David and Rovmen Powell
In her latest outing, Urvashi posed with two prominent cricket players who are currently making waves in the international scene. David, the powerful Australian all-rounder, and Powell, the dynamic West Indies batter, were captured together with Urvashi, sharing a moment of camaraderie. The occasion was particularly special as David and Powell were recently involved in the Abu Dhabi T10 League 2024, where the team, Delhi Bulls, made it to the Qualifier 2 stage, but ultimately loss the match against the Deccan Gladiators.
This photo has piqued the interest of fans across both Bollywood and cricketing communities, underlining the connection between the two worlds, as Urvashi continues to be a bridge between the glamour of Bollywood and the excitement of cricket.
Big moves in IPL 2025 auction
David, who has become a force to reckon with in the world of cricket, was previously part of the Mumbai Indians. However, in the upcoming IPL 2025 mega auction, he has been snapped up by the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for a hefty INR 3 crores. David’s powerful hitting and consistency with the bat have made him one of the most sought-after players in the IPL, and fans are excited to see how he performs in the upcoming season with his new team.
On the other hand, Powell, who was previously a part of the Rajasthan Royals, is all set to play for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Indian Premier League 2025. The West Indies batter was bought by KKR for INR 1.5 Crores in the recent auction, and his aggressive batting style is expected to bolster KKR’s lineup. The cricketer’s move to KKR has generated a lot of buzz, and fans are eager to see his explosive performances in the upcoming season.
According to the media reports, Ajinkya Rahane is in line to become the next captain of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season. This move comes after KKR’s efforts to reclaim Shreyas Iyer, their captain during the IPL 2024 season, failed during the recent mega auction. While there was significant speculation regarding Venkatesh Iyer, the highest-priced acquisition in the auction at INR 23.75 crore, taking over the captaincy, KKR appears to favor Rahane’s extensive experience and proven leadership skills.
Ajinkya Rahane’s leadership background
Rahane has an extensive record of captaincy at various levels in cricket. He has been a prominent figure in domestic cricket, leading the Mumbai team in multiple tournaments. His leadership experience also extends to the international arena, where he has captained India in important matches, including the renowned Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2020-21 series. Under Rahane’s guidance, India managed a memorable Test series victory over Australia in Australia, demonstrating his capability to inspire his team during difficult times.
In the IPL, Rahane has captained both Rajasthan Royals (RR)and Rising Pune Supergiants (RPSG). He led the Royals in the 2018 and 2019 seasons and was central to their strategies during that time. His captaincy style is characterized by a calm and composed approach, alongside tactical sharpness. Despite a record of nine wins and 16 losses from 25 matches, Rahane’s ability to manage young players and remain unfazed under pressure has solidified his value as a leader.
IPL captaincy performance analysis
Rahane’s leadership statistics in the IPL show his dedication and experience. Across 25 matches as captain, Rahane secured nine victories while facing defeat in 16 encounters. He commanded Rajasthan Royals for most of those matches, showcasing his role as a central figure in the team’s strategies. In addition to his captaincy, Rahane has accumulated 583 runs at an average of 25.34, including two half-centuries. While his win-loss ratio may not be exceptional, his ability to adapt to various match situations and his leadership skills underscore his potential to lead effectively.
Over his long career in the IPL, Ajinkya Rahane has consistently been a reliable performer, appearing in more than 185 matches. He has scored 4,642 runs with an average of 30.14 and a strike rate of 123.42. Rahane’s innings are often marked by his ability to stabilize and accelerate when required, reflected in his tally of 30 half-centuries and two centuries, with a career-high score of 105*. His adaptability has allowed him to excel in different batting roles and combinations.
Notably, Rahane’s performances in 2018 and 2019 were among his best, scoring 370 runs in 15 matches at an average of 28.46 with a strike rate of 118.21 in 2018, followed by 393 runs in 14 matches at an average of 32.75 and a strike rate of 137.89 in 2019. Although his stint with KKR in IPL 2022 yielded only 133 runs from seven matches, Rahane’s return to form came with Chennai Super Kings (CSK), where he scored 568 runs across 23 innings at an average of 25.81. His performance in IPL 2024, where he notched up 242 runs, proved that he remains an adaptable and reliable player under pressure.
The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction concluded after two action-packed days in Jeddah, where ten franchises engaged in intense bidding wars, showcasing tactical brilliance and making some surprising calls. While many players secured lucrative contracts, a few big names shockingly went unsold, marking what could be the end of their IPL careers. The auction not only highlighted 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, failed to attract any bids this year. This surprising outcome 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 alike, 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 several players, the high base prices they set seemed to work against them. Franchises, especially toward the end of Day 2, were more cautious with their remaining budget, opting to invest in lesser-known talents or younger players with potential. This left several high-profile cricketers without a contract.
IPL 2025: Best playing XI of unsold players from the mega auction
Despite going unsold, many of these players still possess the skills and experience to form a formidable playing XI. Here’s a hypothetical lineup of the top unsold players from the IPL 2025 mega auction:
1. Prithvi Shaw
Role: Opening Batter Prithvi Shaw remains a dynamic batter known for his aggressive approach in the powerplay. 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 might have tempered expectations at the auction. However, his overall domestic performances showcase his readiness to reclaim his status as a powerplay enforcer.
2. David Warner
Role: Opening Batter (Captain) David Warner, one of the IPL’s most successful batters, continues to deliver consistently. His leadership and experience make him a valuable asset, especially for teams seeking stability at the top of the order. Warner’s age might have raised questions, but his ability to anchor innings and adapt to challenging situations ensures he remains relevant in the shortest format.
3. Yash Dhull
Role: Top-Order Batter Yash Dhull is an emerging talent whose temperament and technique have impressed in domestic cricket. Although his IPL opportunities were limited in 2023 and 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: All-Rounder Daryl Mitchell’s versatility as a middle-order batter and medium-pace bowler makes him a dependable 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 various roles. His knack for handling pressure situations adds to his credentials as a utility player.
5. Sarfaraz Khan
Role: Middle-Order Batter Sarfaraz Khan has built a reputation as a domestic run machine. Nevertheless, translating that success into the IPL has been challenging. His ability to play spin effectively and anchor innings gives him an edge, though questions about his adaptability in high-pressure T20 scenarios persist.
6. Sikandar Raza
Role: All-Rounder Sikandar Raza showcased his potential in IPL 2024 with impactful performances. His off-spin and ability to finish games with the bat make him a multifaceted player. While consistency remains a factor, his experience and calm demeanor in crunch situations enhance his value in T20 cricket.
7. KS Bharat
Role: Wicketkeeper-Batter KS Bharat is a steady performer with the bat and a reliable presence behind the stumps. While his batting style is more suited to stabilizing innings, it might not align with the explosive requirements of the IPL. His proficiency as a keeper, nonetheless, makes him a strong backup option in any squad.
8. Shardul Thakur
Role: All-Rounder 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 highly dependable 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 occasionally hindered his progress, his IPL 2024 performances showcased his effectiveness, especially with the new ball.
10. Piyush Chawla
Role: Leg-Spinner Piyush Chawla defied expectations with his consistent wicket-taking ability in IPL 2024. His experience and control in the middle overs 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, though his IPL career was marred by inconsistency which included no participation in the last two seasons. His ability to bowl in the powerplay and handle the death overs with composure underscores his potential, making him a player to watch for the future.
Indian Test cricketer Sarfaraz Khan, whose journey from a promising talent to a national debutant was closely watched, experienced a major setback at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on November 24-25.
A shocking setback for Sarfaraz Khan
After a solid 2024 season, where he made his Test debut for India and featured in several key red-ball series, many expected the young batter to reclaim his spot in the IPL. However, despite entering the auction with a modest base price of INR 75 lakh, Sarfaraz found himself unsold. The lack of interest from any IPL franchise, especially considering his potential and recent national call-up, left many surprised and disheartened.
Sarfaraz, who last played in the IPL for Delhi Capitals (DC) in 2023, had been hoping for a fresh start in the prestigious T20 league after a year away from the competition. Yet, when his name was announced, no team raised their paddle, leaving him without a contract for the upcoming season. This setback was a harsh reality for the cricketer, who had once been touted as one of the brightest prospects in Indian cricket.
Musheer Khan brings a ray of hope: IPL 2025 mega auction
While Sarfaraz’s IPL hopes were dashed, there was a silver lining for the Khan family. Musheer Khan, Sarfaraz’s younger brother, was picked up by Punjab Kings for his base price of INR 30 lakh. While the amount may not seem large, the selection marked a significant milestone for the Khan family, as it brought another member into the IPL fold.
Sarfaraz, who had previously played for Punjab Kings (PBKS), could now share the excitement of his brother’s inclusion in the league. Musheer’s selection is particularly meaningful considering his lack of T20 experience at the state level. He has, however, made a strong mark in first-class cricket, scoring 716 runs in 9 matches at an average of 51, along with picking up 8 wickets. Despite his recent injury setbacks, Musheer’s rise is an important moment for the Khan family, who have long been supporters of his cricketing journey.
Sarfaraz’s message for over his non selection and Musheer’s selection
Sarfaraz, despite the disappointment of being unsold, took to social media to express his feelings with a powerful and reflective message. In his story on Instagram, Sarfaraz wrote,
“Malal hai Magar etna Malal thodi hai, ye Aankhen mere rone se laal thodi hai, maza to jab hai hum haar kar bhi haste rahe, humesha jeet hi jana kamal thodi hai.” (There is regret, but not too much, my eyes aren’t red from tears, the joy is in losing yet smiling, after all, winning is not always the real marvel.)
Sarfaraz Khan’s Instagram Story (Image Source: X)
This thoughtful message conveyed Sarfaraz’s maturity and resilience in the face of disappointment. His positive attitude in accepting his current situation, while celebrating his brother’s success, reflects a level of emotional strength that will serve him well as he navigates the challenges ahead.
The first day of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction unfolded with grandeur at the Abadi Al Johar Arena in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on Sunday, November 24. With a vast pool of 577 players available for selection, only the top-tier names from the first 12 sets were in focus during the initial phase of the two-day auction. By the end of Day 1, 84 players had gone under the hammer, setting the stage for a high-stakes bidding war between franchises.
Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer, Venkatesh Iyer shatter records
Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant stole the spotlight by becoming the most expensive player in IPL history. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) secured his services for a staggering INR 27 crore, breaking all previous records. Pant’s explosive batting, leadership potential, and adaptability made him the most sought-after player of the auction, highlighting his immense value in the shortest format.
Before Pant’s record-breaking deal, Shreyas Iyer briefly held the title of the highest-paid player in IPL history. Punjab Kings (PBKS) acquired the stylish middle-order batter for INR 26.75 crore. Known for his ability to anchor innings and accelerate when needed, Iyer’s addition brings balance and stability to PBKS’s batting lineup. Reigning champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) made headlines by re-signing all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer for a hefty INR amount of over 20 crores. Iyer’s versatility as a hard-hitting batter and a dependable seam-bowling option proved too valuable for KKR to let go. His performances in previous seasons were instrumental in KKR’s success, prompting the franchise to break the bank for him.
Indian bowlers command high prices: Yuzvendra Chahal and Arshdeep Singh
Indian bowlers were in high demand, with Yuzvendra Chahal and Arshdeep Singh each fetching INR 18 crore. Punjab Kings (PBKS) acquired both bowlers, solidifying their bowling lineup. Chahal, the IPL’s all-time leading wicket-taker, and Arshdeep, one of the most promising left-arm pacers in the league, are expected to play crucial roles in PBKS’s title aspirations.
Day 1 of the IPL 2025 auction showcased the growing value of Indian players in the league. High-profile acquisitions like Pant, Iyer, and Iyer underscored the premium franchises are willing to pay for proven performers and game-changers. As the auction progresses, the focus will shift to uncovering hidden gems and finalizing squads for the highly anticipated season ahead.
In a historic move at theIndian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction held in Jeddah, Punjab Kings (PBKS) secured the services of ace leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal for a whopping INR 18 crore.
This acquisition has made Chahal the most expensive spinner in IPL auction history. The intense bidding battle on November 24 saw multiple franchises vying for Chahal, but PBKS triumphed after a fierce competition involving Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Chahal’s record-breaking bid underscores his immense value and skill set as a match-winning bowler in the shortest format. As PBKS aims to strengthen its bowling arsenal, the addition of the IPL’s all-time leading wicket-taker is a significant boost to their campaign in the upcoming season.
A hotly contested bidding war for Yuzvendra Chahal
The bidding for Chahal was one of the highlights of the IPL 2025 mega auction. Gujarat Titans (GT) initiated the bid at the base price of INR 2 crore, quickly followed by interest from Chennai Super Kings (CSK). However, as the stakes rose, both teams withdrew, paving the way for PBKS and LSG to lock horns. RCB and SRH later entered the fray, with RCB keen to reclaim their former star, given his past success at the batting-friendly M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.
Despite intense interest from multiple franchises, PBKS emerged victorious with a record INR 18 crore bid, making Chahal the costliest spinner in IPL history. His addition to the team adds depth and experience to their bowling lineup, significantly enhancing PBKS’s chances of a strong campaign in IPL 2025.
18 cr for My champion brother @yuzi_chahal Welcome to PUNJAB. Dekh kangaroo bi teri copy karne lage hai ♥️♠️ Badshah bowler ♠️♥️ pic.twitter.com/ZmoTMvIZPf
So happy for @yuzi_chahal bhai – he deserve every bit of this – best spinner in IPL’s history – Highest wicket taker & a serious game changer Finally getting the due in IPL All the very best bhai
History has been made! Congratulations to my dear friend @yuzi_chahal on becoming the highest-bid Indian spinner in #IPL history with a whopping 18 CR deal to #PBKS!
Wishing you the best for this amazing journey ahead! Time to shine brighter than ever, Yuzi! pic.twitter.com/ByH63d5gfb
@RCBTweets have missed a trick by not going for @yuzi_chahal… the brand value and to bring strength to the bowling attack he would have been the ideal pick!! Props to @PunjabKingsIPL for seeing the value in him!!
Chahal’s IPL career has been nothing short of extraordinary. With 205 wickets in 160 matches at an economy rate of 7.84, Chahal sits atop the all-time wicket-takers list in the tournament’s history. He surpassed Dwayne Bravo‘s record in 2023 and became the first bowler to breach the 200-wicket mark in IPL history. His tally includes six four-wicket hauls and a five-wicket haul, showcasing his ability to deliver match-turning spells consistently.
Chahal’s career began with the Mumbai Indians (MI), where he was a promising talent. However, his true potential was realized RCB, where he became the franchise’s highest wicket-taker with 139 wickets in 113 matches. After a successful stint with Rajasthan Royals (RR), including winning the Purple Cap in 2022 with 27 wickets, Chahal will now embark on a new journey with PBKS as his fourth IPL team.
A legacy of excellence in T20 cricket
Chahal’s impact extends beyond the IPL. He is also the leading wicket-taker for India in Men’s T20Is, with his tally only surpassed by Deepti Sharma across all Indian players in T20Is. Chahal’s ability to perform under pressure has made him a pivotal figure in Indian cricket, both domestically and internationally. Chahal’s IPL journey has been adorned with milestones. His Purple Cap-winning season in 2022 with the RR saw him take 27 wickets in 17 matches, leading his team to the finals. Although the Royals fell short against GT Chahal’s contributions throughout the tournament were unparalleled.
PBKS’s strategy and the road ahead
By acquiring Chahal, PBKS has reinforced its bowling unit with a proven match-winner. Chahal’s experience in high-pressure situations and his knack for breaking partnerships will be invaluable for the team. PBKS will rely on Chahal’s consistency and wicket-taking ability to lead their bowling attack and complement their other bowlers effectively.
For PBKS, this signing represents a strategic move to solidify their core group of players. With Chahal in the squad, they aim to end their title drought and establish themselves as strong contenders in IPL 2025. As Chahal gears up for this new chapter in his IPL career, the spotlight will be on him to deliver yet another stellar season.
TheIndian Premier League (IPL) 2025mega auction exemplifies cricket’s growing global appeal, with 574 players from diverse cricketing nations set to go under the hammer on November 24-25 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This includes 366 Indian players, with a mix of 48 capped and 318 uncapped talents, highlighting India’s deep talent pool.
Alongside them, 208 overseas players will participate, including 193 capped stars and 15 uncapped players, many of whom have proven their mettle in international cricket or domestic T20 leagues. Notably, three players from associate nations have also made the final cut, reflecting the IPL’s commitment to inclusivity and promoting cricket in emerging markets. The wide array of talent ensures that teams will be keen to acquire players who can strengthen their cores or provide match-winning performances, making the auction a strategic battleground for franchises.
Marquee players: The spotlight on cricketing superstars
Seven Indian cricketers have been named in the prestigious marquee player list, underlining their importance in the auction dynamics. Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Mohammed Siraj, Mohammed Shami, Yuzvendra Chahal and Arshdeep Singh are expected to be the center of attention as teams vie to secure their services.
These players have consistently delivered exceptional performances in the IPL and international cricket, making them hot properties in the auction. The marquee list also includes global icons like Mitchell Starc and David Warner, who are likely to attract fierce bidding. With INR 2 crore as the highest base price, this category symbolizes the pinnacle of T20 cricket excellence, and acquiring these players could be pivotal for teams aiming for the championship in IPL 2025.
Strategic budgets: Franchises prepare for intense bidding wars
The financial strategies of franchises will play a defining role in the auction as each team starts with a INR 120 crore purse. However, the salaries of retained players have already been deducted, leaving varying amounts for each franchise. Punjab Kings (PBKS), with INR 110.5 crore, boast the largest purse, granting them significant leverage to dominate the bidding. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) follow with INR 83 crore, allowing them flexibility to make impactful purchases.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Rajasthan Royals (RR), having already retained six players each, enter the auction with limited scope for additional retentions or Right to Match (RTM) cards, adding complexity to their planning. This financial disparity among teams ensures a riveting auction as franchises strive to maximize their remaining budgets while assembling balanced and competitive squads.
The return of Mallika Sagar: Ensuring a seamless auction experience
Mallika Sagar’s return as auctioneer promises a smooth and professionally conducted event. Known for her composure and expertise, Sagar previously handled the IPL 2024 mini-auction and both editions of the Women’s Premier League auctions, garnering praise for her adept handling of the high-pressure environment. Her presence at the helm for the IPL 2025 mega auction ensures a seamless flow, adding to the excitement of the two-day event.
With the auction being streamed live by Jio Cinema in six languages, it is poised to reach a global audience, further solidifying the IPL’s position as the premier cricket league worldwide. For fans and franchises alike, the stage is set for a spectacle that could shape the next phase of cricketing history.
Sikandar Raza, Zimbabwe’s experienced all-rounder and T20I captain, is among the prominent players in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025mega auction, set to take place on November 24 and 25 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. With a base price of INR 1.25 crores, Raza brings versatility and a wealth of international experience to the table.
Sikandar Raza in the IPL 2025 Auction
Raza previously represented Punjab Kings (PBKS) during the 2023 and 2024 seasons. Across nine matches, the 38-year-old scored 182 runs, including a match winning half-century. Additionally, he contributed with the ball, taking three wickets, showcasing his ability to influence games in both departments. Known for his ability to anchor innings and accelerate when needed, Raza is also an effective off-spinner, particularly valuable in subcontinental conditions. His calm temperament and experience in high-pressure situations make him a dependable middle-order option.
Raza’s skill set makes him an attractive target for franchises seeking a reliable all-rounder who can contribute in multiple phases of the game. His past performances for PBKS have already demonstrated his adaptability and match-winning potential.
IPL 2025: 3 teams who can target Sikandar Raza in the mega auction
1. Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
CSK might target Raza to bolster their all-rounder department, particularly as a backup for aging players like Ravindra Jadeja. Raza’s ability to contribute in middle-order batting and his off-spin adds depth to the team. CSK often looks for experienced, versatile players, aligning with Raza’s profile. His calm temperament can prove valuable in handling pressure situations. With spin-friendly conditions at Chepauk, Raza’s bowling can be a strategic asset. His relatively low base price ensures CSK can secure him without major budget concerns.
2. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)
LSG could target Raza to strengthen their lower middle order and add an all-rounder who can bat and bowl effectively. Raza’s experience on slow pitches suits LSG’s home ground in Lucknow, where spinners play a crucial role. With Nicholas Pooran and other top-order batters handling the early overs, Raza can finish innings or anchor when needed. His off-spin provides an alternative to LSG’s left-arm and leg-spin options. LSG also values overseas players with adaptability, making Raza a perfect fit. His performance for his national side especially in the high-stakes tournament further showcase his ability in high-stakes games.
3. Rajasthan Royals (RR)
RR might target Raza to enhance their middle-order stability and provide additional bowling flexibility. RR often relies on dynamic all-rounders who can impact the game with both bat and ball, making Raza a valuable addition. At the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur, known for its spin-friendly conditions, Raza’s off-spin could be a game-changer. His ability to counter-attack and finish games in the lower order would complement RR’s aggressive batting philosophy. Additionally, Raza’s leadership experience can benefit a team looking for strategic insights and calmness in pressure scenarios.
PBKS can use RTM option
PBKS have retained their Right-to-Match (RTM) option for Raza, which could be a strategic move to bring him back if bidding intensifies. Having already spent two seasons with PBKS, Raza is familiar with the team dynamics and the roles assigned to him. His memorable performances, including a crucial half-century in IPL 2023, make him a trusted option. Given PBKS’s tendency to invest in utility players, they might use the RTM card to secure a cost-effective all-rounder who can adapt to various match situations. Retaining Raza would also ensure continuity in their overseas player lineup.
The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025mega auction is set to be a crucial event for franchises looking to build their squads for the upcoming season. As teams prepare to form their rosters from scratch, uncapped players are expected to be in high demand.
IPL 2025 Mega Auction: The rise of uncapped Indian players
These emerging talents, who have not yet represented India at the international level, offer a wealth of potential and are seen as future stars of Indian cricket. With their affordable price tags and the opportunity to develop them into key players, uncapped players have become an integral part of IPL teams’ long-term strategies.
Uncapped players have consistently proven to be valuable assets in the IPL, with many franchises benefiting from taking a chance on raw talent. The upcoming auction will give these young players an opportunity to showcase their skills and aim for a breakthrough that could propel them into the national team. Here’s a closer look at some of the uncapped players who have impressed in domestic cricket and could attract significant bids at the IPL 2025 auction.
IPL 2025 Auction: 5 uncapped players who can cross the 5 crore mark
1. Nehal Wadhera: A Rising Star with Remarkable Batting Skills
Nehal Wadhera (Image Source: X)
Nehal Wadhera is an explosive left-handed batter who made his mark in IPL 2023 with Mumbai Indians (MI). Although his 2024 season did not go as planned, with three consecutive single-digit scores, his previous performances have shown that he is a talent to watch. In 2023, Wadhera impressed with his ability to stabilize the middle order and take the attack to the opposition, making crucial contributions during MI’s campaign.
Wadhera’s explosive batting was also on display in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2023-24, where he played a pivotal role in Punjab’s title win. Despite a lackluster 2024 season, his batting power and potential make him an attractive prospect for many IPL franchises. His left-handed approach suits the demands of franchises looking to build a solid middle order, and MI, the team that initially nurtured him, may also look to repurchase him during the auction. Wadhera’s ability to turn the game around in the middle overs and his power-hitting capability will likely make him a highly sought-after player at the IPL 2025 auction.
2. Ashutosh Sharma: The Explosive Finisher
Ashutosh Sharma was one of the few positives for Punjab Kings (PBKS) during their forgettable IPL 2024 season. Known for his aggressive batting, Ashutosh has the ability to finish games with explosive cameos in the death overs. In his debut season, Ashutosh played 11 matches, scoring 189 runs with a highest score of 61. His strike rate, which hovered over 160, showcased his ability to accelerate the innings and provide the necessary momentum in the latter stages of the game.
Ashutosh’s natural ability to strike the ball cleanly, particularly in the final overs, makes him a valuable asset for teams looking to add a hard-hitting finisher to their squad. Despite not ending the 2024 season on a high note, his consistent performances throughout the season and his aggressive batting approach will ensure that he remains in demand at the auction. Teams seeking power-hitting depth are likely to place high bids on Ashutosh in the IPL 2025 auction.
Swastik Chikara has been one of the standout performers in the UP T20 League 2024, where he scored a staggering 499 runs in just 12 matches. His performances for Meerut made him the highest run-scorer in the tournament, showcasing his exceptional talent and ability to dominate bowlers. With a strike rate of 191.56 and an average of 61.57, Chikara has proven that he can take on the best bowlers in the shortest format of the game.
Swastik’s batting prowess, including his ability to hit sixes and fours with ease, makes him an exciting prospect for IPL franchises looking for dynamic middle-order players. His 2024 domestic record also includes 1 century and 4 half-centuries, which highlights his consistency in scoring big runs. Chikara’s power-hitting style is well-suited to the fast-paced nature of IPL, and he is expected to draw significant interest from franchises.
His background in List A cricket, where he has accumulated 200 runs from 6 matches, further adds to his credibility as an all-rounder with the potential to deliver in various formats. IPL teams are likely to see Swastik Chikara as an excellent investment, especially considering his proven ability to perform under pressure in domestic competitions.
4. Sameer Rizvi: A Dynamic Middle-Order Batter
Sameer Rizvi, a 20-year-old right-handed batter, made his IPL debut for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in 2024, where he showed glimpses of his explosive batting. Although Rizvi could not make a significant impact in his limited opportunities, his domestic form has been impressive. Known for his ability to attack the bowlers from the start, Rizvi is a player who can take the game away from the opposition in a matter of overs.
Rizvi’s performances in domestic cricket, particularly in middle-order roles, have established him as a promising talent. Despite limited IPL exposure, his aggressive playing style, which is well-suited for the middle order, makes him a key prospect for franchises looking to add depth to their batting line-ups. Given his familiarity with the CSK setup, it is possible that the franchise could bid for him again, but other teams are also likely to show interest in securing his services for IPL 2025. His ability to turn games with his dynamic batting makes him a valuable asset for any team.
5. Mahipal Lomror: An Upcoming All-Rounder with IPL Potential
Mahipal Lomror (Image Source: X)
Mahipal Lomror, the 24-year-old all-rounder, has been making waves in Indian domestic cricket with his remarkable performances. Despite his impressive IPL history, where he has accumulated 527 runs in 40 matches—including a solid 125 runs in the previous edition for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) – Lomror was released by RCB ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction. However, his recent sensational display in the Ranji Trophy has put IPL franchises on high alert as they prepare for the upcoming auction on November 24-25 in Jeddah.
Lomror’s explosive form was on full display during his record-breaking triple century in a Ranji Trophy Group B match against Uttarakhand. Scoring an astonishing 300 runs off 357 balls, Lomror’s innings included a blistering 13 sixes and 25 fours, which not only displayed his exceptional batting technique but also his ability to dominate bowlers in longer formats. His strike rate of 83.33 was particularly impressive, showing his ability to maintain a high level of aggression without losing control over his shots.
This innings has surely caught the attention of IPL franchises, especially given his ability to score quickly and play a crucial role in both formats of the game. With his power-hitting and ability to perform under pressure, Lomror is now seen as a valuable asset for teams looking to add depth to their middle-order batting and all-round options.
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