The Indian Premier League (IPL) has become a global phenomenon, attracting top cricketing talent from around the world.
As teams prepare for the IPL 2025 mega auction, the landscape of player acquisitions is filled with excitement and uncertainty.
While many players are expected to attract hefty bids, some established stars may find themselves unsold.
Check the top 3 players who could potentially go unsold in the upcoming auction.
Steve Smith
In IPL 2024, Smith played for Delhi Capitals but struggled to make a significant impact. He scored only 194 runs in 10 matches at an average of 19.40, which is below par for a player of his caliber.
Such performances raise concerns about his current form and ability to contribute effectively in a T20 format.
At 34 years old, teams may view Smith as a less attractive option compared to younger players who can offer more longevity and potential upside.
Many franchises are looking to build aggressive teams filled with explosive players. Smith’s traditional batting approach may not align with the current trends in T20 cricket.
Kane Williamson
Kane Williamson has faced significant injury issues over the past year, which have limited his participation in both international cricket and the IPL.
His absence from competitive play raises doubts about his fitness and readiness to perform at a high level.
In his last complete season (IPL 2023), Williamson averaged just 32.25 with a strike rate below 130, which is considered subpar in T20 cricket.
This lack of impactful performances could deter franchises from bidding on him.
Nitish Rana
Nitish Rana has been an integral part of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) over the past few seasons.
Rana’s performances have been inconsistent throughout his IPL career. In IPL 2024, he scored only 250 runs in 14 matches at an average of 21.67, which raises concerns about his reliability as a top-order batsman.
KKR’s decision to release him indicates a shift in strategy towards building a more robust squad that may not include players who have not consistently delivered results.
With many promising young players entering the auction pool, franchises may opt for these fresh faces instead of taking a risk on Rana’s inconsistent track record.
