The IPL 2025 auction had its fair share of drama — from massive bids for rising stars to shock exits for some well-known names. While every team goes into the auction with a clear strategy, fans were left surprised (and in some cases, frustrated) by the number of talented players who went unsold.
Many of these players had the experience, the numbers, and the potential to make a big impact this season. But somehow, their names never got called. Let’s talk about a few of these players who truly deserved a spot in IPL 2025 — and maybe, just maybe, should’ve been given that one more chance.
1. Steve Smith – The Unexpected Miss
It’s still a bit hard to believe, but Steve Smith didn’t find a place in any IPL team this year. Sure, his T20 game has slowed down a bit, and he isn’t the explosive batter he once was — but come on, it’s Steve Smith. The guy brings loads of experience, calmness under pressure, and can even lead if needed.
For many fans and users of online cricket betting id platforms, Smith was still a strong pick for middle-order consistency. His ability to read the game is unmatched — and that alone should’ve earned him a contract.
2. Rassie van der Dussen – Mr. Reliable
Rassie van der Dussen has quietly become one of the most consistent batters for South Africa in white-ball cricket. He’s calm, dependable, and knows how to build an innings. Yet, for the second year in a row, no IPL team picked him.
That’s a tough pill to swallow, especially for those who track stats and trends using their cricket betting id. Rassie may not be flashy, but he’s effective — and in T20s, that’s what wins matches.
3. Kedar Jadhav – Experience That Got Overlooked
Remember Kedar Jadhav? The guy who used to finish games for India with ease not too long ago? He might not be the youngest or the quickest, but his cricketing brain and calm presence are still valuable.
He could’ve easily slotted into a lower-middle order role, especially in a team lacking experienced Indian batters. Plus, he bowls those cheeky off-breaks that always seem to get wickets out of nowhere. Players like him are favorites in online cricket betting id fantasy picks — underrated but often effective.
4. Sean Abbott – The All-Round Package
Sean Abbott has quietly built a strong reputation in leagues around the world. He bowls with pace, can bat down the order, and knows how to handle pressure. In short, he’s the kind of player most teams are always on the lookout for.
So why didn’t he get picked? That’s a mystery even regular users of cricket betting id apps couldn’t figure out. With so many teams looking for overseas pace-bowling all-rounders, Abbott not being picked just feels like a missed opportunity.
5. Karun Nair – The Forgotten Talent
Karun Nair, once celebrated for that magical triple century in Test cricket, is again left out of the IPL. His recent form hasn’t been great, but let’s be honest — form can return. Talent like his doesn't just disappear.
Nair is also a solid pick for those who play on online cricket betting id platforms, especially in domestic matches where he still shines. Maybe a bit more support and faith would’ve made all the difference this year.
6. Tabraiz Shamsi – The Spinner Who Deserved a Spin
Tabraiz Shamsi is not just a fun character on the field — he’s also a seriously good spinner. In fact, he was once ranked as the world’s No. 1 T20 bowler. And yet, the IPL auction just passed him by.
On slower Indian pitches, a mystery wrist-spinner like Shamsi could’ve been gold. Many cricket fans — especially those who use cricket betting id apps — had him on their radar as a potential game-changer. Sadly, the franchises didn’t see it that way.
7. Manish Pandey – Still Has a Few Overs Left
Manish Pandey has been around for a long time, and yes, his form has dipped recently. But when you look at the bigger picture, he’s still a dependable Indian top-order batter with plenty of experience.
He knows the IPL inside out, and on his day, he can still play match-winning innings. Users on online cricket betting id platforms often take a gamble on players like Pandey — because when he clicks, he really delivers.
Final Thoughts: Sometimes, It’s Not Just About the Numbers
At the end of the day, the IPL auction is a game of strategy. Franchises have their reasons — squad combinations, current form, injury concerns, and budgets. But it’s still tough to watch deserving players go unsold, especially those who have consistently delivered in the past.
For fans and fantasy players who follow every match closely using their online cricket betting id, it’s these stories — the comeback dreams, the surprise snubs — that make the IPL so emotionally engaging.
While they didn’t get picked this time, the season is long, and injuries or form issues could open doors. Here’s hoping that some of these players get that well-deserved call and find their way back to the field where they truly belong.
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