3 Overseas Players Who Could Go Unsold in IPL 2025 Mega Auction

Prepend to the Content

Read Original Content: 3 Overseas Players Who Could Go Unsold in IPL 2025 Mega Auction

The IPL 2025 mega auction is set to be a highly competitive event, with over 500 players available for selection. While some big international stars are expected to attract huge bids, a few prominent overseas players might struggle to find a buyer. Here are three overseas players who could go unsold in this year’s auction.

1. Glenn Maxwell

Glenn Maxwell has been a game-changer for Australia in T20 cricket, known for his explosive power-hitting, especially in the middle overs. However, his IPL 2024 campaign with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) was disastrous. He managed just 52 runs in nine matches and failed to make an impact in crucial games. Maxwell’s recent white-ball performances for Australia, including poor outings against England and Pakistan, have also raised concerns about his form.

At 36 years of age, Maxwell’s fitness and declining performance might deter franchises from bidding for him. While his reputation as a match-winner remains intact, his recent struggles make him a risky investment for teams looking for consistent performers.

2. Shakib Al Hasan

Shakib Al Hasan, once regarded as one of the finest all-rounders in T20 cricket, is likely to miss out in the upcoming auction. The veteran from Bangladesh has been out of form recently, managing only 169 runs at a strike rate of 106.28 in 12 T20Is this year. His bowling figures haven’t been impressive either, with just nine wickets to his name in 2024.

Shakib didn’t feature in IPL 2024 due to injuries and off-field controversies, and his decision to retire from T20Is has further diminished his value. Additionally, the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s (BCB) frequent reluctance to grant no-objection certificates (NOCs) for its players adds to the uncertainty. Despite his base price of INR 1 crore, Shakib’s age (37), form, and availability issues could see him going unsold.

3. Steven Smith

Steven Smith, one of Australia’s greatest Test batters, has struggled to replicate his success in the T20 format. While his unconventional batting style makes him a nightmare for bowlers in Tests, it hasn’t translated well into the fast-paced nature of T20 cricket.

Smith last played in the IPL for Delhi Capitals in 2021 and has since been absent from the league. His limited involvement in T20s and lack of aggressive power-hitting might dissuade franchises from bidding for him. Despite being a world-class player, Smith’s T20 skills don’t align with what IPL teams typically seek in overseas stars.

Read Original Content: 3 Overseas Players Who Could Go Unsold in IPL 2025 Mega Auction

ProBatsman