The 2025 IPL Auction in Jeddah was nothing short of a spectacle, with franchises locking horns for the best talent. Yet, amidst the heated bidding wars, a few big names, including Shardul Thakur and Prithvi Shaw, were surprisingly left unsold. This turn of events has left fans and experts scratching their heads.
A Surprising Start
Shardul Thakur, known for his ability to deliver in clutch moments, had high expectations riding on him. Despite his decent performances in domestic cricket and a reliable IPL track record, none of the franchises raised the paddle for him. Thakur’s base price of ₹2 crore may have been a deterrent, or perhaps teams were looking for younger, more versatile options.
Prithvi Shaw’s Fallout
Prithvi Shaw, once hailed as the future of Indian cricket, found himself in a similar predicament. Shaw’s inconsistent performances and fitness concerns over the past few seasons might have played a role in the franchises’ lack of interest. The talented batter’s inability to adapt to changing playing conditions also seems to have worked against him.
Other Surprises
Joining this list of unsold players are international stars such as West Indies’ Nicholas Pooran and South Africa’s Rassie van der Dussen. Pooran, despite his explosive batting skills, perhaps suffered due to his steep price tag. Meanwhile, van der Dussen, a dependable middle-order batter, seemed to lack the flair teams were seeking.
Is It the End of the Road?
Being unsold does not necessarily mark the end for these players. Mid-season replacements and injuries in teams often create opportunities. Additionally, several players have made remarkable comebacks after going unsold in previous auctions.
The unsold players list highlights the unpredictable nature of IPL auctions. Franchises often have specific strategies, and even proven performers may find themselves out of favor. Fans will now wait and watch if these players seize opportunities outside the IPL to remind the world of their worth.
