One of the most exciting aspects of every IPL season is the race for the Emerging Player of the Year Award – a recognition given to the most promising young talent under the age of 25 who has played limited international cricket. In the IPL 2025, several youngsters have stepped up and delivered match-winning performances. Let’s explore the top 5 contenders who are making a strong case for the coveted award.
Here are the top 5 contenders to win the Emerging player award this IPL season:
5. Ayush Mhatre (Chennai Super Kings)
- Age: 17
- Role: Top-order batter
- IPL 2025 Highlights: 94 (48) vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)
Ayush Mhatre has quickly become one of the breakout stars of IPL 2025. At just 17, the young Mumbai prodigy has turned heads with his fearless strokeplay and composure under pressure. His standout knock of 94 off just 48 balls against RCB was a mature, attacking innings that showed off both his temperament and talent. Batting in the crucial No. 3 position for Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Mhatre has regularly scored runs and delivered in crunch moments. In 5 games, he has scored 163 runs at an outstanding strike rate of almost 182. His ability to pace an innings like a seasoned player makes him one of the leading candidates for the Emerging Player Award this season.
4. Vaibhav Suryavanshi (Rajasthan Royals)
- Age: 14
- Role: Explosive opening batter
- IPL 2025 Highlights: 101 (38) vs Gujarat Titans (GT)
At just 14 years old, Vaibhav Suryavanshi is making IPL history. Not only is he the youngest player in the league, but he also became the youngest to score a century in IPL, reaching the milestone in just 35 balls. In his wonderful knock of 101 against GT, Vaibhav smashed 11 sixes and 7 boundaries, setting social media abuzz. While critics question if it’s too much too soon, there’s no denying the raw talent and composure he’s shown at the top of the order for Rajasthan Royals (RR). His fearlessness and clean hitting make him a generational talent to watch.
3. Priyansh Arya (Punjab Kings)
- Age: 24
- Role: Aggressive opener
- IPL 2025 Highlights: 103 (42) vs Chennai Super Kings
Priyansh Arya was a surprise package during the auction, picked up by Punjab Kings (PBKS) for a hefty INR 3.80 crore. The 24-year-old has justified the investment with strong performances, especially in the powerplay. His scintillating knock of 103 runs off 42 deliveries against CSK, establishing his presence as an blistering opener. Known for his attacking style and cool-headedness, Arya has consistently given Punjab solid starts, in 11 innings he has 347 runs with a massive strike rate of 192.11. With more consistent knocks and steady temperament, he could emerge as a front-runner for the Emerging Player title by season’s end.
Also READ: Indian Premier League 2025 – Stats
2. Noor Ahmed (Chennai Super Kings)
- Age: 24
- Role: Left-arm wrist spinner
- IPL 2025 Highlights: Match-turning spells in middle overs
Noor Ahmed continues to grow in stature with each season he plays in the IPL. The 24-year-old Afghan spinner has been CSK’s go-to bowler in the middle overs. His control, ability to deceive with flight and pace variations, and knack for picking up crucial wickets have made him a key weapon. In a struggling CSK, Noor has been one of the few front performers this season. He has delivered match-turning spells this year, often stifling opposition momentum just when they were looking to accelerate. Currently positioned on top of the purple cap lists along with Prasidh Krishna with 20 wickets and economy of almost 8. With improved economy and wicket-taking ability, Noor remains a strong contender for the Emerging Player honor.
5. Sai Sudharsan (Gujarat Titans)
- Age:23
- Role: Top-order batter
- IPL 2025 Stats: 509 runs in 11 matches at a strike rate of 143.43
Sai Sudharsan is arguably the most consistent emerging batter this season. With 509 runs in just 11 matches, positioned second on the race for orange cap, he’s been Gujarat’s batting mainstay. Sudharsan’s ability to adapt to match situations—whether it’s rebuilding after early wickets or accelerating in the powerplay—sets him apart. His technique is solid, and his temperament even better. At 23, he’s shown the maturity of a veteran, anchoring innings and finishing games alike. His consistency and hunger for runs make him a strong favorite for this year’s Emerging Player Award and the prestigious orange cap.
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