The IPL 2025 is on the verge of wrapping up its league stage. Six teams, Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Rajasthan Royals (RR), Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), and Delhi Capitals (DC), missed out on playoff qualification.
Despite falling short collectively, these franchises featured players who delivered standout individual performances.
Here’s a look at the best Playing XI, spotlighting the top contributors from the non-qualifying teams.
Best IPL 2025 Playing XI from Non-Playoff Teams
| Position | Player | Team | Key Stats/Highlights |
| Opener | Mitchell Marsh | LSG | 560 runs, SR 161.84 |
| Opener | Yashasvi Jaiswal | RR | 559 runs, SR 159.71 |
| No. 3 (C) | Nicholas Pooran | LSG | 511 runs, SR 198.83 |
| No. 4 | KL Rahul | DC | 539 runs, SR 149.72 |
| No. 5 | Dewald Brevis | CSK | 225 runs, SR 180.00 |
| No. 6 (WK) | Dhruv Jurel | RR | 333 runs, SR 156.33 |
| No. 7 | Aniket Verma | SRH | 236 runs, SR 166.19 |
| No. 8 | Vipraj Nigam | DC | 142 runs, 11 wickets, SR 179.74, Econ 9.12 |
| No. 9 | Harshal Patel | SRH | 16 wickets, Econ 9.80 |
| No. 10 | Khaleel Ahmed | CSK | 15 wickets, Econ 8.16 |
| No. 11 | Noor Ahmad | CSK | 24 wickets, Econ 8.16 |
1. Mitchell Marsh (LSG) – Opener
The Australian all-rounder was a run-machine for Lucknow, finishing as the highest run-scorer among non-playoff teams with 560 runs at a blistering strike rate of 161.84. Marsh’s ability to dominate attacks and play match-defining knocks made him an automatic pick at the top.
2. Yashasvi Jaiswal (RR) – Opener
Jaiswal continued his upward trajectory with 559 runs at a 159.71 strike rate. His consistency and aggressive approach ensured the Rajasthan Royals got strong starts even in a turbulent season.
3. Nicholas Pooran (LSG) (Captain) – No. 3
Pooran was LSG’s middle-order dynamo, smashing 511 runs at a phenomenal strike rate of 198.83. His explosive batting and ability to finish games made him captain of this XI.
4. KL Rahul (DC) – No. 4
Rahul anchored Delhi Capitals’ batting, amassing 539 runs at 149.72 strike rate. His experience and composure under pressure were vital, even as DC struggled for consistency.
5. Dewald Brevis (CSK) – No. 5
The South African youngster made a mark in CSK’s lower middle order, scoring 225 runs at a rapid 180.00 strike rate. Brevis’s cameos often provided much-needed impetus in the death overs.
6. Dhruv Jurel (RR) (WK) – No. 6
Jurel emerged as a reliable wicketkeeper-batsman for Rajasthan, tallying 333 runs at 156.33 strike rate. His calmness and ability to finish games were highlights in RR’s campaign.
7. Aniket Verma (SRH) – No. 7
A breakout performer for Sunrisers, Verma scored 236 runs at a strike rate of 166.19. His fearless batting in the middle order offered SRH hope in several matches.
8. Vipraj Nigam (DC) – All-rounder
Nigam’s all-round utility shone through: 142 runs at 179.74 strike rate and 11 wickets at an economy of 9.12. He provided balance and flexibility, making him a valuable asset in this lineup.
9. Harshal Patel (SRH) – Bowler
Patel was SRH’s go-to pacer, picking up 16 wickets despite a high economy rate. His knack for breakthroughs, especially at the death, kept SRH in contention in tight games.
10. Khaleel Ahmed (CSK) – Bowler
The left-arm seamer delivered consistently for CSK, claiming 15 wickets at an economy of 8.16. His ability to strike early in the power play was crucial for his side.
11. Noor Ahmad (CSK) – Bowler
Noor Ahmad was the most prolific spinner among non-playoff teams, taking 24 wickets at an economy of 8.16. His variations and control in the middle overs made him a standout performer.
