USA Pacer Saurabh Netravalkar Registers for IPL 2025 Mega Auction

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Saurabh Netravalkar, the USA’s standout pacer, has entered his name for the upcoming IPL 2025 mega auction. After a memorable performance in the T20 World Cup 2024, where he played a pivotal role in the USA’s win over Pakistan, Netravalkar has set a base price of INR 30 lakh and could become the first American cricketer to participate in the IPL if selected. 

A Rising Star for USA Cricket

In the T20 World Cup, the left-arm pacer hogged the limelight by defending 18 runs in a super over against Pakistan. Netravalkar’s calm and skillful bowling helped the USA secure a stunning victory. Over six games, he claimed six wickets with an average of 20.83, underscoring his potential as a valuable T20 asset. He is one of the finest death bowlers from the USA. 

Journey from India to USA

Originally from India, Netravalkar played for Mumbai’s Under-19 team before shifting to the USA for career reasons. He pursued a job as a software engineer at Oracle, which led him to transition to representing the USA in cricket. 

Reflecting on his journey, he admitted that stepping away from his dream of playing for India or in the IPL was tough, but ultimately, he decided to focus on a career outside cricket when opportunities began to dwindle.

“I trained hard and made it to the Mumbai team. But after two seasons, I realized I wasn’t moving forward to the next level—neither the senior Indian team nor an IPL contract,” Netravalkar shared in an interview. “Leaving cricket and moving to the USA was emotional, but I thought it was the practical choice.”

IPL Mega Auction Beckons

The IPL 2025 mega auction, scheduled for November 24 and 25 in Jeddah, is set to offer exciting opportunities for franchises. With Netravalkar in the pool, teams could be eyeing him as a fresh and skilled addition, especially considering his recent World Cup performance. 

Should he be picked, Netravalkar would make history as the first American to feature in the IPL, marking a milestone for USA cricket on the world’s biggest T20 stage.

As the franchises prepare to build their squads, Netravalkar’s experience and adaptability could add depth to any team in search of a reliable left-arm pacer with international experience.

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