IPL 2025 auction held at Abdi Al Johar Arena in Jeddah. Saudi Arabia has 182 players signed from 10 teams, one major headline being Rishabh Pant becoming the most expensive player in the league’s history.
However, the auction was also a surprise as some well-known names were not sold. Despite a strong performance in the last IPL season, cheap bases and team tactics played a role in this unexpected result. Here are the five most impressive players who weren’t sold:
1. Kane Williamson
Kane Williamson is known for his elegant batting. Often criticized for being too simple for T20 cricket, the former Sunrisers Hyderabad captain was last seen playing for the Gujarat Titans. Williamson’s battle with injuries makes him a risky option for the team.
2. David Warner
One of the greatest openers in IPL history, David Warner has been a consistent performer for many years. Although he is retired from playing international cricket. But he is still prominent in T20 leagues around the world. However, Warner was not sold in the IPL 2025 auction, although he later recalled the meeting.
3. Shardul Thakur
Shardul Thakur, once India’s all-rounder his recent form has been minimal. The Mumbai pacer spent most of last season on the bench for Chennai Super Kings while his all-round abilities were noted. The team chose another option making him without a contract.
4. Mayamk Agarwal
Mayank Agarwal has had an outstanding season in the IPL and brings experience as an Indian batsman. That has always been valuable, however his less explosive T20 style and competition for slots has prevented him from even being selected as a back-up opener.
5. Jonny Bairstow
Jonny Bairstow, who is known for breaking up partnerships in the past, is also not for sale. His recent form has been inconsistent, though. But his wicket-keeping ability and aggressive batting could be an asset, however, the team chose to pass on the England international player.
These sell-out players show how team dynamics and tactics can sometimes overshadow individual talent. This makes the IPL auction unpredictable.
