IPL 2025: The Unsold Stars, Shocking Misses, and Untold Stories
The IPL 2025 auction has concluded, leaving behind a mix of jubilation and heartbreak. While many players are celebrating their selection with fireworks and sweets, others are grappling with disappointment and broken dreams. This year saw several high-profile names go unsold, leaving fans and experts shocked. Here’s a look at 10 such players whose absence from IPL 2025 has left everyone stunned.
1. Prithvi Shaw
Once hailed as the future of Indian cricket and even compared to Sachin Tendulkar by the ICC, Prithvi Shaw’s career seems to have taken a nosedive. Last year, he was retained by Mumbai Indians, but this year, he was dropped from the squad. Despite a base price of ₹75 lakh, no franchise showed interest in him. His talent is unquestionable, but inconsistency and off-field issues might have contributed to his current plight.
2. Shardul Thakur
The exclusion of ‘Lord Thakur’ is perhaps the biggest shock of the auction. Once sold for ₹10.75 crore in 2022, the versatile all-rounder went unsold this year. With 95 matches, 94 wickets, and a batting strike rate of 140, Shardul is a player who can turn games with both bat and ball. His absence from the IPL is as surprising as it is disappointing.
3. Mayank Agarwal
Former Punjab Kings captain Mayank Agarwal’s unsold status has also raised eyebrows. Last season, he was bought by Sunrisers Hyderabad for ₹8 crore, but a lack of form (just 32 runs in 4 matches) saw him go unpicked this year. Once a prolific scorer for both India and in the IPL, Mayank’s decline highlights the ruthless nature of the league.
4. David Warner
David Warner, one of the greatest IPL players ever, went unsold this year. With 6,565 runs, 4 centuries, and three Orange Caps, Warner has been a legend in the tournament. However, his recent form, slower strike rate, and potential retirement from international cricket might have contributed to this shocking exclusion.
5. Kane Williamson
Another surprising miss is New Zealand’s Kane Williamson. Known for his calmness and consistency, Williamson struggled with injuries and form in recent years. Last season, he suffered a major injury while playing for Gujarat Titans. His slower strike rate and fitness issues might have deterred franchises from bidding for him.
6. James Anderson
At 42, England’s legendary pacer James Anderson expressed his desire to play in the IPL, but no franchise showed interest. Anderson’s Test records are unparalleled, but his lack of T20 experience and age seem to have worked against him.
7. Steve Smith
Steve Smith’s absence from IPL 2025 is another shocker. Known for his exceptional cricketing skills, Smith’s traditional batting style doesn’t always suit the fast-paced demands of T20 cricket. Many expected Ricky Ponting’s Delhi Capitals to bid for him, but that didn’t happen.
8. Mitchell Marsh
Mitchell Marsh, who was bought for ₹14 crore last season, surprisingly went unsold this year. With 318 runs at a strike rate of 142 in IPL 2024, his exclusion is puzzling. Perhaps teams are looking for younger and more dynamic players.
9. Joe Root
England’s Test captain Joe Root is another big name who couldn’t secure a spot in the IPL. Root’s classic batting style, while effective in longer formats, doesn’t align with the aggressive demands of T20 cricket.
10. Naveen-ul-Haq
Afghanistan pacer Naveen-ul-Haq, who grabbed headlines last season due to his on-field spat with Virat Kohli, also went unsold this year. Despite his solid performances in IPL 2024, no franchise showed interest, possibly due to his increased base price or controversy surrounding him.
The IPL is known for its unpredictability, both on and off the field. These unsold players serve as a reminder that consistency and adaptability are key to surviving in this highly competitive league. While their exclusion is surprising, it also opens the door for new talent.
Which of these unsold players surprised you the most? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
