IPL 2025 Auction: Prithvi Shaw to Mustafizur Rahman - Seven Surprising Unsold Players from Mega Event

The IPL 2025 Auction was a high-octane affair with record-breaking deals and strategic acquisitions. The ten teams spent a mammoth Rs 639.15 crore, buying 182 players in the process.

However, amid the fierce bidding wars, some big names and highly skilled players surprisingly found no takers. From proven match-winners to rising talents, these unsold stars were expected to attract interest but went under the radar. Here's a look at seven players who surprisingly went unsold in the IPL 2025 auction.

1. Mustafizur Rahman

The Bangladeshi left-arm pacer, affectionately known as "The Fizz," has been a reliable performer in T20 leagues worldwide. With his deceptive cutters and skill at the death, Mustafizur has consistently delivered in pressure situations. The Bangladesh player was excellent at the IPL 2024 for Chennai Super Kings, where he picked up 14 wickets in nine matches. It was a surprise to see him going unsold at the auction.

2. Jonny Bairstow

Jonny Bairstow, one of England's most destructive T20 batters, failing to find a team was another big shock. A proven IPL performer with a strike rate of over 140 in the league, Bairstow's ability to dominate the powerplay and provide a reliable wicketkeeping option made him a coveted player in the past. He played for Punjab Kings last season and scored 298 runs, modest by his nature. But still, someone of Bairstow's calibre missing out is a big shock.

3. Sarfaraz Khan

Sarfaraz Khan's unsold status is a puzzling one. The Mumbai-born batter has been in scintillating form in domestic cricket, amassing runs at an incredible rate in recent seasons. However, his limited opportunities and underwhelming performances in past IPL seasons might have worked against him. Sarfaraz also made his India debut in this year and has done well in national colours.

4. Pathum Nissanka

The Sri Lankan opener, known for his classical stroke play and consistent performances, also found no takers. Nissanka's adaptability across formats and his ability to anchor innings make him a solid T20 prospect. While he might lack the explosiveness of some other T20 specialists, his steadiness at the top order could come in handy for any side looking for stability in case of injuries.

5. Prithvi Shaw

Prithvi Shaw's fall from grace continues as the talented opener went unsold at the IPL 2025 mega auction. Known for his aggressive starts and ability to dominate in the powerplay, Shaw's inconsistency and fitness issues may have influenced the franchises' decision. Despite this, Shaw remains a potential game-changer and could provide a franchise with explosive top-order firepower if roped in as an injury replacement.

6. Mayank Agarwal

The Karnataka batter has a host of IPL experience and has been a consistent player over the years. But Mayank Agarwal must feel disappointed after the IPL 2025 mega auction as no team went for the crafty Indian opener. He had an underwhelming season with Sunrisers Hyderabad earlier this year but could have been a decent backup option for some teams.

7. Shardul Thakur

Shardul Thakur's elimination from the IPL is another shocking event. The India all-rounder has been a veteran in IPL and with 95 matches and 68 wickets under his belt, could have been a handy option for many teams. His batting in the lower order coupled with his wicket-taking ability with the ball was not enough to entice the franchises.