The 2025 season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) has been full of surprises. While big names have performed well, some lesser-known or previously underrated players have completely stolen the show.
These underdog players grabbed their chances and turned into stars, helping their teams in big ways.
Here are the Top 5 underdog players who turned into superstars in IPL 2025:
1. Vignesh Puthur – Mumbai Indians
Vignesh Puthur, a young cricketer from Kerala, had a humble background. His father drives an autorickshaw.
Mumbai Indians spotted him through their talent scouting and bought him for ₹30 lakh in the auction.
On his debut match against Chennai Super Kings, he took 3 important wickets — Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shivam Dube, and Deepak Hooda — finishing with 3/32. He’s now a key bowler for Mumbai Indians and one of the surprise stars of the season.
2. Shardul Thakur – Lucknow Super Giants
Shardul Thakur went unsold in the IPL 2025 auction. He was about to go play county cricket in England, but Lucknow Super Giants called him in as a replacement for injured Mohsin Khan.
He made the most of this chance. In just two games, he picked up six wickets and even led the Purple Cap list.
His 4-wicket haul (4/34) against Sunrisers Hyderabad was especially impressive. Now, he’s one of the top bowlers in the league again.
3. Ashwani Kumar – Mumbai Indians
Another great find by Mumbai Indians, Ashwani Kumar made a dream debut this season. The 23-year-old fast bowler took 4 wickets for just 24 runs in three overs during a match against Kolkata Knight Riders.
His spell helped Mumbai win the match by eight wickets. Captain Hardik Pandya praised his pace, swing, and unusual bowling action. Ashwani is now seen as one of the most exciting young pacers in IPL 2025.
4. Nicholas Pooran – Lucknow Super Giants
Nicholas Pooran is known for his explosive batting, but in IPL 2025, he took it to another level. He was promoted to the top order and proved the move right by scoring fast runs.
Against Sunrisers Hyderabad, he smashed 70 runs off just 26 balls, hitting 6 sixes and 6 fours. His power-hitting has been a game-changer for Lucknow. Captain Rishabh Pant said Pooran is now playing with full freedom and confidence.
5. Priyansh Arya – Punjab Kings
Priyansh Arya first grabbed headlines when he hit six sixes in one over during a local T20 tournament in Delhi. He carried that form into the IPL.
On his debut for Punjab Kings, he played a brilliant knock of 47 runs off just 23 balls against Gujarat Titans. He gave the team a strong start and is already being seen as one of the future stars of the league.
