IPL 2025 Auction Shocker: 5 Big Names Left Unsold

In a thrilling IPL 2025 auction, 10 franchises collectively splashed ₹639.15 crore to build their squads, acquiring 182 players, 62 of whom are overseas stars. The auction witnessed record-breaking bids, bold strategies, and a shift in focus toward youth and multi-skilled players. Highlights included Rishabh Pant's ₹27 crore bid—the highest in IPL history—and the youngest signing ever, with teenager Vaibhav Suryavanshi making headlines. While some stars celebrated massive paydays, others faced the bitter reality of going unsold in a rapidly evolving league. Teams were keen on his leadership skills and dynamic batting, sparking an intense bidding war. Vaibhav Suryavanshi's Remarkable Entry; At just 13 years old, this young sensation made headlines as the youngest-ever player to be signed for the IPL. 

His raw talent and potential turned heads, despite his lack of professional experience. While the auction was full of surprises, several cricketing legends found no takers. This could signal the end of their IPL journey, as franchises increasingly prioritize younger, multi-dimensional players. Steve Smith, Chris Gayle are the big names where Teams seemed hesitant to invest in a player who hasn’t been as impactful in the shortest format where as The Universe Boss, Chris Gayle who is a potential IPL comeback, found no buyers this time around. Age and recent lack of match fitness might have contributed to the snub had hinted at. Even Dinesh Karthik, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Piyush Chawla the Indian champions struggled with injuries and form in recent years, leading to his exclusion from IPL 2025 plans. After playing a pivotal role as a finisher in previous editions, Karthik’s declining form and age seemed to dissuade franchises. Piyush Chawla over the last two years, he was the lead spinner for Mumbai Indians. But, with no teams going for him in this year's auction, it can be the end of the road for the veteran cricketer.