The IPL 2025 auction was a spectacle of high-stakes bidding, unexpected twists, and intense competition. While some players secured gracious deals, several big and potential names surprisingly went unsold, leaving fans and experts stunned.

Here’s a look at the top 10 unsold players from this year’s auction.

Shardul Thakur (India)

A proven match-winner with both bat and ball, Shardul Thakur entered the auction with a base price of ₹2 crore. In 25 T20Is, Shardul Thakur claimed 33 wickets at a 23.39 average, with his best being 4/27, notably underscoring his match-changing impact. However, despite his experience and ability, no franchise placed a bid for the Indian all-rounder.

Glenn Phillips (New Zealand)

A power-packed all-rounder, Phillips is a destructive hitter, a reliable off-spinner, and one of the best fielders in world cricket. Yet, surprisingly, the Kiwi star remained unsold in the initial phase of the auction.

Mayank Agarwal (India)

An experienced IPL opener, Agarwal has consistently delivered at the top of the order. However, the 33-year-old found no buyers this time, making his absence from the tournament an unexpected twist.

Ibrahim Zadran (Afghanistan)

Zadran’s record-breaking 177 against England in the Champions Trophy showcased his ability to dominate top bowling attacks. Despite his growing reputation, he remained unsold, but his name could resurface in the accelerated bidding.

Michael Bracewell (New Zealand)

A dependable lower-order batsman and a skilful off-spinner, Bracewell made a significant impact in the Champions Trophy. He even had an IPL stint with RCB in 2023, but that wasn’t enough to earn a bid this year.

Ben Duckett (England)

Duckett’s blistering 165 against Australia in the Champions Trophy underlined his aggressive batting style. Though he didn’t attract bids initially, RCB is reportedly considering him as a potential replacement.

Ben Dwarshuis (Australia)

A left-arm pacer with an impressive record in global T20 leagues, Dwarshuis had a strong Champions Trophy campaign, picking up seven wickets in three matches. Despite his versatility, the player went unsold in the first round.

Kartik Tyagi (India)

The 24-year-old pacer, who has previously played for Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad, could make a comeback in the auction as teams look for affordable bowling options to strengthen their squads.

Matt Henry (New Zealand)

The tournament’s leading wicket-taker, Henry claimed 10 wickets in four matches at an average of 16.70 and an economy of 5.32. With his Powerplay and death-over expertise, the former LSG, CSK, and KXIP pacer could be a valuable addition—if his shoulder injury doesn’t hinder his availability.

Devdutt Padikkal (India)

The left-handed top-order batter, currently with the Indian Test team, went unsold in the auction. A natural opener, Padikkal could still be considered if teams look to strengthen their batting lineup.