As the IPL 2025 mega auction draws near, players’ performances in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2024 are under the spotlight, with several players looking to enhance their market value through standout displays.
Among them, Shreyas Iyer, Mohammed Shami, and Abhinav Manohar have caught the attention of franchises with their impressive form in the tournament.
Iyer’s explosive batting, Shami’s seasoned bowling prowess, and Manohar’s dynamic scoring ability could significantly influence their auction prices, making them key players to watch as teams strategize for the upcoming season.
With franchises eager to invest in talent that can lead them to success, these three players are poised to make a substantial impact in the IPL 2025 auction.
Shreyas Iyer
Shreyas Iyer has made headlines with his explosive performance in the SMAT 2024, particularly his stunning innings of 130 runs off just 57 balls against Goa.
This remarkable knock not only showcased his ability to dominate bowling attacks but also marked his return to form after a challenging period that included missing IPL 2023 due to injury.
Iyer’s recent form is compelling; he scored 351 runs in 14 matches during IPL 2024, leading Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to victory.
His ability to score quickly and his leadership qualities make him a valuable asset for franchises looking for a captaincy option.
With multiple teams vying for a fresh captain, Iyer’s performance could trigger a bidding war, especially since he is listed at a base price of ₹2 crore, which is likely to rise significantly due to his recent success.
Mohammed Shami
Veteran pacer Mohammed Shami is another player whose SMAT performance could influence his auction price.
After being released by Gujarat Titans, Shami is eager to prove his fitness and skill in the tournament.
His recent performances, including taking seven wickets in a Ranji Trophy match, have positioned him well for a strong showing in SMAT.
Shami’s experience and pedigree as an international bowler make him an attractive option for franchises looking to bolster their bowling line-up.
A couple of standout performances in the SMAT could elevate his profile further, potentially leading to a lucrative contract during the auction.
Abhinav Manohar
Abhinav Manohar has emerged as a promising talent following an impressive run in the KSCA Maharaja T20 tournament, where he scored 507 runs at an average of 84.5 and an astonishing strike rate of 196.5.
His aggressive batting style and ability to score quickly make him a valuable middle-order option.
With franchises increasingly seeking dynamic players who can change games with their batting prowess, Manohar’s performance in SMAT will be critical.
If he continues to deliver strong innings, he could attract attention from several teams during the IPL auction.
