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IPL auction 2025 in Jeddah brought plenty of surprises, with intense bidding wars and unexpected outcomes. However, some big names shocked fans and experts by going unsold this year.
As the IPL season approaches, stay tuned for in-depth updates on player performances, team strategies, and more!
Surprisingly, several seasoned IPL players failed to secure a team during the two-day auction. Some were overlooked due to high base prices, especially as franchises focused on finalizing their squads on the last day. Others, known for their prowess in longer formats rather than T20 cricket, were also ignored by the franchises.
The IPL 2025 auction had its fair share of unexpected moments, with a few renowned cricketers failing to attract any bids. Here’s a look at the top five players who surprisingly went unsold this season!
1. David Warner
David Warner, one of the greatest IPL openers, announced his international retirement earlier this year but continues to play in T20 leagues worldwide. In a shocking turn of events, the New South Wales star went unsold at the IPL 2025 auction, even after being reconsidered late in the session.
2. Shardul Thakur
Shardul Thakur, once a key all-format player for India, endured a setback as he went unsold in the IPL 2025 auction. The Mumbai pacer spent most of last season on the bench for Chennai Super Kings. Despite his all-round abilities, franchises opted for other options during the bidding war.
3. Mayank Agarwal
Mayank Agarwal may not be a flashy T20 opener, but as Karnataka’s captain, he has showcased consistent performances over multiple seasons. With experienced Indian batters in demand, many expected him to be a top pick, at least as a reliable backup opener.
4. Kane Williamson
Kane Williamson, often seen as too traditional for T20 cricket, remains unsold for IPL 2025. The former Sunrisers Hyderabad captain, who last played for Gujarat Titans, has been sidelined due to injury ever since.
5. Jonny Bairstow
Jonny Bairstow, once a dominant opener alongside David Warner at Sunrisers Hyderabad, has struggled with consistency since moving to Punjab Kings. Despite his wicket-keeping abilities being a potential asset, franchises opted not to bid for him, leaving the Yorkshire batter unsold at the IPL 2025 auction.
Conclusion
The IPL 2025 Auction was packed with excitement, featuring intense bidding wars and unexpected turns. However, it also delivered some shocking surprises, as several big names failed to secure a spot in any franchise. Fans and experts were left stunned as seasoned cricketers went unsold despite their past performances and contributions to the league.
Among the most surprising omissions were Mayank Agarwal, Kane Williamson, and Jonny Bairstow, all of whom have proven records in T20 cricket. These players have been key performers in previous IPL seasons, making their absence this year even more unexpected. Their failure to attract bids has sparked discussions about team strategies and selection priorities.
One major reason behind these surprising exclusions could be the teams’ focus on fresh talent. Franchises seemed more inclined toward building squads for the future, investing in young players who can bring long-term value. With several teams undergoing transitions, many experienced players found themselves sidelined.
Additionally, high base prices may have played a crucial role in these stars going unsold. Some franchises were hesitant to spend heavily on veterans, especially with budget constraints and team balance considerations. Instead, they chose to fill their squads with cost-effective, emerging players.
The unpredictable nature of the IPL auction is what makes it thrilling every season. While some players secure unexpected big deals, others with impressive records are left out. This year’s auction has once again reinforced how team dynamics, strategies, and market trends shape player selections.
As the IPL 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on how the teams perform with their newly built squads. The absence of some big names will certainly be felt, but the excitement surrounding fresh talent and new combinations promises an exhilarating tournament ahead.
