The IPL 2025 Mega Auction is scheduled for November 24-25, with 574 players from across the world shortlisted. Star players like Jos Buttler, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Glenn Maxwell, and Shreyas Iyer will be part of the auction. While there are speculations that players like Pant and Buttler could fetch the highest bids, there are also some big names in the cricketing world who may not attract huge amounts in the auction.
Piyush Chawla – In the last two seasons, Piyush Chawla has taken 35 wickets in 27 matches for Mumbai Indians. In the previous season, MI paid him ₹50 lakh to play. However, in the era of young and dynamic bowlers, Piyush’s name seems to be fading. Despite having 192 wickets in IPL history, he may not fetch a high price in the auction, and there’s even a possibility of him going unsold.
Ajinkya Rahane – Known for his Test cricket style and slower strike rate, Rahane impressed in 2023 when he joined Chennai Super Kings, scoring at a strike rate of 172.49. However, in 2024, he disappointed, and his IPL strike rate remains below 124. Given this, franchises may bid very low for him.
Kane Williamson – Similar to Rahane, Kane Williamson’s slow strike rate could lead to a lower bid. He was part of Gujarat Titans last season and received ₹2 crore for his participation. In 2024, he scored only 111 runs in 6 matches for New Zealand. His poor form and low strike rate could mean a reduced bid for him in the auction.
Vijay Shankar – Vijay Shankar has been playing for Gujarat Titans in the last three seasons. In 2024, he managed only 83 runs in 7 matches, without contributing much with the ball. While his first-class career statistics are strong, the era of impact players might affect the bid for this fast-bowling all-rounder.
Ishant Sharma – Ishant Sharma has set his base price at ₹75 lakh for the mega auction. He has been with Delhi Capitals since 2019 but was released this season. In the past two seasons, his performance has been underwhelming, and he didn’t even get a chance to play all matches. It’s unlikely that he will attract a bid in the millions this time.