The Indian Premier League 2025, Mega Auction, having concluded its day 1, saw the auction go record-smashing while changing the lives of several players as franchises splurged on marquee names and emerging talents. While the day was one of success for many as new benchmarks were set in player valuations, it was also a day of surprises since a few big names, despite their proven credentials went unsold, these top 5 players, despite their achievements and potential, remained unsold on Day 1, showcasing the unpredictable dynamics of IPL auctions.
1. David Warner
One of the most iconic players in IPL history, Warner shockingly found no buyers. Known for his explosive batting and consistent performances, Warner has scored 6,565 runs in 184 matches at an average of 40.52 and a strike rate of 139.77. Representing Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Delhi Capitals (DC), Warner won the Orange Cap thrice (2015, 2017, and 2019) and led SRH to their maiden title in 2016 with 848 runs at an average of 60.57. His IPL career boasts four centuries, 62 half-centuries, and an impressive 663 fours and 236 sixes. However, a modest IPL 2024 season with just 168 runs in 8 matches and his retirement from international cricket might have contributed to the lack of interest. Regardless, Warner’s legacy as one of IPL’s greatest players remains untarnished.
2. Devdutt Padikkal
The stylish Karnataka batter surprisingly went unsold at his base price of ₹2 crore. Despite being part of India’s Test squad in the ongoing series at Optus Stadium, Padikkal’s IPL journey has been eventful. With 1,559 runs in 64 matches at an average of 25.14 and a strike rate of 123.14, he has consistently delivered at the top of the order. His breakthrough season came in 2020 with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), where he scored 473 runs, followed by another stellar campaign in 2021 with 411 runs, including a maiden IPL century (101*). However, his form in IPL 2024 with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) dipped drastically, managing just 38 runs in 7 matches at a strike rate of 71.69. Despite his recent slump, Padikkal’s potential as a boundary-hitter (169 fours and 42 sixes) remains unquestionable.
3. Jonny Bairstow
The dynamic England wicketkeeper-batter was a surprising omission from the auction picks, despite his IPL prowess. Across 50 matches for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Punjab Kings (PBKS), Bairstow has amassed 1,589 runs at an average of 34.54 and a strike rate of 144.45. He has two centuries and nine half-centuries, including a career-best 114. His best season came in 2019 with SRH, where he scored 445 runs at a staggering average of 55.62 and strike rate of 157.24. Bairstow also showcased glimpses of brilliance in IPL 2024 with PBKS, scoring 298 runs in 11 matches at a strike rate of 152.82, including a match-winning 108*. A solid wicketkeeper with 28 catches and four stumpings, Bairstow’s omission is puzzling given his attacking capabilities and versatility.
4. Kartik Tyagi
Known for his express pace and ability to bowl under pressure, Kartik Tyagi has shown potential but remains injury-prone, which may have deterred teams. In 20 IPL matches for Rajasthan Royals (RR), Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), and Gujarat Titans (GT), he has picked up 15 wickets with best figures of 2/29. His economy rate of 10.13 and strike rate of 28.1 reflect his raw talent, though his consistency needs improvement. Tyagi’s standout season came in IPL 2021 with RR, where he delivered in crunch situations. Limited opportunities in IPL 2024 with GT saw him go wicketless in a single appearance, but his potential as a pace-bowling asset remains undeniable.
5. Piyush Chawla
A seasoned campaigner and one of the most consistent bowlers in IPL history, Chawla’s absence from Day 1 picks raised eyebrows. Over 192 matches for Punjab Kings (PBKS), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Chennai Super Kings (CSK), and Mumbai Indians (MI), he has claimed 192 wickets at an average of 26.60 and an economy of 7.96. Chawla’s best figures of 4/17 and two four-wicket hauls underline his ability to deliver in key moments. A standout season in 2023 with MI saw him take 22 wickets in 16 matches at an average of 22.50. He continued his form in 2024, picking up 13 wickets in 11 games. Chawla’s vast experience and knack for picking wickets make his unsold status a mystery.