IPL Auction 2025: The IPL Mega Auction, set to be held in Jeddah on November 24-25, will feature a diverse lineup, including players from Associate Nations like the USA and Italy.
Among the 574 players in the auction pool, there are plenty of players from small-cricket nations, including familiar names, who started their careers in India before moving abroad. Let's take a look at such names:

Unmukt Chand, India’s 2012 U-19 World Cup-winning captain, enters the auction as a USA player. Having last played in the IPL in 2016, Chand is aiming for a comeback after a significant career shift. Since retiring from Indian cricket in 2021, Chand has played for Silicon Valley Strikers in Minor League Cricket and Los Angeles Knight Riders in Major League Cricket. Despite his eligibility for the USA national team, Chand missed their T20 World Cup squad. At 32, he seeks to reignite his IPL career as part of the uncapped wicket-keeper category.
Thomas Jack Draca brings a unique story to the IPL auction as a representative of Italy, a nation still developing its cricket culture. The 24-year-old pacer debuted for Italy in T20Is this year, taking eight wickets in four matches. With stints in leagues like the ILT20 and Canada’s GT20, Draca’s inclusion at slot 325 signals a push for diverse talent in the IPL. Franchises may view him as a wildcard with potential for their bowling lineups.
Ali Khan, known for his fiery spells, was pivotal in the USA's success at the 2024 T20 World Cup. The 33-year-old fast bowler has prior IPL experience, having been signed by Kolkata Knight Riders in 2020 but never debuting due to injury. With a stellar T20 league resume, including his exploits against top teams like India and Pakistan, Khan could attract attention from franchises seeking experienced pacers.