Monday, 23 December 2024
Monday, 23 December 2024
A group of uncapped players, brimming with untapped potential, are all set to set the auction tables on fire in the IPL 2025 mega auction at Jeddah. From explosive young batters to fiery fast bowlers, these hidden gems have the skill and spark to ignite fierce bidding wars.
Here’s a look at the 7 players who could transform into the next big IPL sensation – and why they’re already on the radar of every franchise.
Nehal Wadhera: Mumbai’s hidden gem
Nehal Wadhera, the 24-year-old Ludhiana-born batter, has been a consistent performer for Mumbai Indians. Known for his ability to stabilise innings and accelerate in the middle overs, Wadhera boasts a commendable IPL strike rate of over 140. Although his form dipped in IPL 2024, averaging below 20, his knack for impactful cameos and part-time spin-bowling skills make him an intriguing prospect.
Angkrish Raghuvanshi: The next Yashasvi Jaiswal?
Angkrish Raghuvanshi shot to fame as the leading run-scorer in the 2022 U-19 World Cup and has since been hailed as a top-order sensation. The Delhi-born batter showcased his potential in brief stints with KKR, displaying a blend of power and finesse. At just 19, Raghuvanshi is an investment for franchises seeking a long-term top-order anchor.
Rasikh Salam Dar: The J&K pace sensation
Jammu & Kashmir’s Rasikh Salam Dar has gained attention for his express pace and ability to swing the ball both ways. His standout performance in the Asia Emerging Cup 2024, where he bagged nine wickets at an average of 10.33, has raised his stock. With IPL 2024 stats of nine wickets in eight games, Salam's refined variations and knack for breakthroughs make him a prime target for franchises.
Vaibhav Arora: The Purple Brigade’s ex-weapon
Vaibhav Arora, who enjoyed a career-best IPL season with KKR in 2024, taking 11 wickets in 10 matches, has returned to the auction pool. The 26-year-old medium-pacer’s ability to deliver under pressure, coupled with his Ranji Trophy exploits for Himachal Pradesh, makes him a dependable bowling option.
Swastik Chikara: The MVP from UP
Ghaziabad’s Swastik Chikara has emerged as a powerhouse batter in the Uttar Pradesh T20 League. With 499 runs at an average of 49.90 and a staggering strike rate exceeding 185 in this year’s edition, Chikara has proved his mettle. His explosive top-order batting and back-to-back stellar domestic performances make him an ideal pick for teams eyeing an aggressive opener.
Abhinav Manohar: Gujarat’s underutilised asset
Despite limited opportunities with Gujarat Titans, Abhinav Manohar has shown glimpses of brilliance. The 30-year-old amassed 550 runs in the Maharaja T20 Trophy 2024, underlining his ability as a finisher. With franchises always on the lookout for lower-order hitters, Manohar is a great option.
Mahipal Lomror: A triple-centurion ready to shine
Mahipal Lomror’s career took a dramatic turn after his record-breaking 300 off 357 balls in the Ranji Trophy. Released by RCB, the 24-year-old all-rounder has become a hot commodity with his explosive batting and dependable spin bowling. Lomror’s IPL experience makes him an invaluable option for teams seeking middle-order strength and all-round capabilities.
These uncapped players are set to command the spotlight at the 2025 mega auction. Whether as finishers, top-order anchors, or strike bowlers, their skills will ignite bidding wars.
