The IPL 2025 auction in Jeddah has wrapped up after two days of intense bidding wars, shocking decisions and dramatic snubs. While teams splurged millions on emerging talents and seasoned match-winners, some of the most accomplished names in IPL history failed to find buyers. These players, whose past performances were nothing short of legendary, now find themselves on the sidelines.
David Warner: The Orange Cap king without a taker
David Warner, a name synonymous with IPL batting dominance, surprisingly went unsold in this year’s auction. The 38-year-old Australian opener, the only player to win the Orange Cap three times, has been a cornerstone of IPL’s success story. With 6565 runs in 184 matches at an average of 40.52 and a strike rate of 139.77, Warner ranks as the fourth-highest run-scorer in IPL history. His records include four centuries and 62 half-centuries, numbers that underscore his match-winning ability. However, his form in IPL 2024, where he managed just 168 runs in eight matches with a single fifty, saw him released by Delhi Capitals.
Kane Williamson: Stability meets rejection
Another shocker came in the form of Kane Williamson, New Zealand’s star batter and former Sunrisers Hyderabad captain, going unsold. Known for his elegant stroke play and ability to anchor innings, Williamson has 2101 runs in 78 matches, averaging 36.22 with 18 half-centuries. His IPL pinnacle came in 2018 when he led Sunrisers Hyderabad to a runner-up finish, amassing 735 runs as the season’s top scorer. Despite his leadership and proven consistency, Williamson’s lacklustre 2024 season with Gujarat Titans seemed to have swayed the decision-makers.
Jonny Bairstow: Power and precision ignored
England's Jonny Bairstow, who lit up the IPL with his aggressive batting, failed to find a spot this year. With 1589 runs in 50 matches at an average of 34.54, Bairstow boasts two centuries and nine half-centuries. His highest score of 114 remains etched in IPL history as one of the most destructive innings. Despite his credentials, including a decent 2024 season with Punjab Kings, Bairstow's name was overlooked.
Daryl Mitchell: Promising all-rounder sidelined
New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell, an all-rounder with a growing reputation, was another casualty of this auction. Mitchell, who played for Chennai Super Kings last season, has accumulated 351 runs in 15 matches with two half-centuries. His highest score of 63 and ability to bowl medium pace made him a dual-threat. Despite a steady 2024 campaign, where he averaged 28.91, teams surprisingly decided to give him a pass.
Mayank Agarwal: A seasoned pro left in the lurch
Mayank Agarwal’s IPL journey hit an unexpected pause as he went unsold this year. With 2661 runs in 127 matches, including a century and 13 fifties, Agarwal’s experience and leadership were expected to attract bidders. His lacklustre 2024 with Hyderabad, however, appears to have overshadowed his otherwise consistent contributions.
The IPL 2025 auction has showcased the unforgiving nature of franchise cricket, where past laurels often play second fiddle to current form and future potential. As the tournament progresses, fans will undoubtedly miss these stars, whose contributions to the league remain unmatched.
Shardul Thakur: Palghar Express runs out of steam
Shardul Thakur, known for his knack for delivering in crunch moments, went unsold in the IPL 2025 auction, leaving questions about his future in the league. The seamer has 94 wickets in 95 matches, with his best figures of 4/36 highlighting his ability to impact games. Representing Chennai last season, Thakur struggled for consistency, and his omission underscores the league's growing emphasis on younger, faster bowlers.