IPL 2025 Mega Auction: Full list of unsold players along with their base price

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Franchise strategy shifts: Young talent over veteran superstars
Shocking moments at IPL 2025 Mega Auction: Big names go unsold
Complete list of unsold players along with their base price in the IPL 2025 mega auction

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction in Jeddah has delivered some of the most shocking moments in recent history. It witnessed the surprise of Indian cricketers like Prithvi Shaw going unsold at a base price of INR 75 lakhs, despite his established presence in the league with Delhi Capitals (DC).

Known for his elegance and consistency, Shaw’s failure to attract any bids stunned many, setting the tone for a highly unpredictable auction. Alongside him, some cricketing legends like David Warner, Steve Smith and Kane Williamson went without bidders, despite their extensive track records and experience in international cricket. These surprising snubs have left fans questioning the evolving strategies of franchises, who appear to be more focused on younger talent and fulfilling specific team needs rather than signing big names.

Franchise strategy shifts: Young talent over veteran superstars

In a major shift from previous years, IPL 2025 saw franchises place a strong emphasis on younger players and emerging talent, rather than veteran stars. This strategy was evident as fast bowlers such as Umesh Yadav, Mustafizur Rahman and Naveen-ul-Haq, all priced at ₹2 crore, went unsold. Similarly, the young fast bowler Umran Malik failed to secure a bid, despite being one of India’s rising pace prospects. The lack of interest in seasoned pacers suggests that teams are now prioritizing dynamic players with specific skills or youthful exuberance to build long-term, adaptable squads. Even Piyush Chawla, an experienced spinner with a wealth of IPL knowledge, found himself unsold, signaling that franchises may be looking for more specialized spin options or younger talent in this department as well.

Shocking moments at IPL 2025 Mega Auction: Big names go unsold

One of the most jaw-dropping moments at the IPL 2025 mega auction was the failure of Warner to secure a bid. Despite being listed at a base price of INR 2 crore, Warner, a former IPL-winning captain and one of the most successful openers in the history of the league, found no takers. His unsold status has left many perplexed, especially given his explosive performances with the bat and his ability to anchor an innings under pressure.

Speculation continues about whether Warner will return in later rounds, but for now, his absence from the rosters has sparked debates about the changing nature of IPL auctions. Similarly, established stars like Williamson and Smith faced a similar fate, highlighting that franchises are evolving beyond the comfort of big names, opting instead to invest in the future of the game through fresh talent and squad-specific requirements.