New Delhi: The highly-anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction is set to take place on November 24 and 25, with teams gearing up to bid big on some of the most exciting players in the cricketing world. However, not everyone is expected to find a buyer. Among the list of notable players entering the auction are some high-profile former captains whose future in the IPL looks uncertain. Here’s a look at three big names who may go unsold this year.
Steve Smith:
Former Australian captain and one of the game’s finest batsmen, Steve Smith, is a name that may not see any takers in the IPL 2025 mega auction. Smith last appeared in the IPL in 2021 and has since been absent from the tournament for three consecutive seasons.
Despite a decorated IPL career, including stints as captain for Rajasthan Royals and Rising Pune Supergiants, Smith’s prolonged absence from the format and lukewarm performances in recent years could deter franchises from investing in him. With teams focusing on younger and more dynamic players, Smith’s IPL comeback seems unlikely.
Ajinkya Rahane:
India’s dependable right-handed batsman and former captain Ajinkya Rahane also faces the risk of being overlooked in the upcoming auction. At 36 years of age, Rahane’s suitability for the fast-paced T20 format is under scrutiny.
Although he had a brief resurgence during IPL 2023 with Chennai Super Kings (CSK), his performance in 2024 was underwhelming, leading to his release by the franchise. Known for his measured and steady approach to batting, Rahane’s style may not align with the explosive gameplay that franchises now prioritize.
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Faf du Plessis:
Former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) captain and ex-South African cricketer Faf du Plessis is another high-profile player whose IPL journey might come to an end this year. Du Plessis, who captained RCB for three seasons, was unable to secure a title for the franchise, which might weigh heavily on his chances in the auction.
At 40 years old, Du Plessis has already retired from international cricket. While he scored 438 runs in 15 matches during IPL 2024 at an average of 29.20, his advancing age and RCB’s decision to release him could work against him in the bidding war.
The Challenge of Age and Format
All three players—Smith, Rahane, and Du Plessis—are distinguished cricketers with significant contributions to the sport. However, the fast-paced nature of T20 cricket and the IPL’s shift towards younger, more dynamic players might leave these veterans without a team in IPL 2025.
As the auction unfolds, it remains to be seen whether any franchise will take a chance on these seasoned campaigners or if their IPL journeys will come to a quiet end.