The IPL 2025 Mega Auction is already announced to take place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on November 24-25. Before the auction, all 10 IPL franchises have retained a total of 46 players, and more than 1,500 players have registered, intensifying the competition. However, only 204 players will be sold, meaning many high-profile cricketers could go unsold. Here’s a look at some of the big names, who were paid in crores last season, but may struggle to find a team this time around:
Alzarri Joseph
The West Indian pacer, known for his pace, has shown impressive performances in international cricket but has struggled in the IPL. In 22 IPL matches, Joseph claimed only 21 wickets at an economy rate of 9.55. Last season, he played only 3 matches for RCB, taking just one wicket. Due to inconsistency and injury issues, franchises might be hesitant to invest in him for IPL 2025. He was paid ₹11.5 crore for the 2024 season.
Spencer Johnson
The Australian pacer, known for his speed, made his IPL debut with Gujarat Titans in 2024. He played five matches, taking only 4 wickets, and has struggled in international T20s as well, claiming just 6 wickets from 5 matches for Australia. His underwhelming performance might lead to him being unsold this time. He was paid ₹10 crore for the 2024 season.
Riley Russo
South Africa’s Riley Russo has scored over 9,000 T20 runs in his career. He previously played for RCB in 2014-15 but had an uninspiring IPL 2024 season with Punjab Kings, scoring only 211 runs in 8 matches. Given his recent performance, it’s unlikely that any franchise will bid for him in IPL 2025. He earned ₹8 crore for the 2024 season.
Jhye Richardson
The Australian pacer, bought by Delhi Capitals for ₹5 crore in the 2024 auction, could face the same fate as last season, where he was limited to just one match due to injury. Although his domestic and Big Bash League performances have been solid, his IPL struggles and injury issues may deter franchises from purchasing him in 2025.
David Willey
The English pacer, who had already played for Lucknow Super Giants in 2024, withdrew from the season due to personal reasons. Under the new BCCI rules, foreign players like Willey may face challenges, and his IPL record—6 wickets in 11 matches—might make him less attractive to teams. Willey was set to earn ₹2 crore for the 2024 season. David Willey is always a match-winner with the new ball and if he goes for the auction pool, many teams will show interest in buying him at a heavy price.