IPL 2025: Top 5 surprising picks of mega auction

Vaibhav Suryavanshi and Priyansh Arya.
(Photo Source – Twitter/X)

The IPL (Indian Premier League) 2025 mega auction was one that saw several players get roped in by the franchises. The auction, held in Jeddah on November 24 and 25, saw the 10 franchises empty their purses in hopes of building the best possible squads ahead of the new season of the IPL.

However, apart from the big names, there were several players who were picked by the franchises out of the blue. Continuing on the same, let us have a look at the top five most surprising picks of the IPL 2025 mega auction.

5. Priyansh Arya

From being a relative unknown to being signed by Punjab Kings in the IPL 2025 mega auction, 23-year-old India all-rounder Priyansh Arya shot to fame after his recent performances. His show in the Delhi Premier League, including the six sixes in an over, compelled the Punjab Kings to rope in Arya after many had not expected him to be selected.

With 446 runs scored in 15 T20 matches and being the highest run getter of the Delhi Premier League with 608 runs in ten innings opening the batting for his team, Arya shows heaps of potential. It is interesting to note that Arya was roped in at a price of INR 3.8 crore by Punjab Kings after several sides like RCB, MI, and DC wanted to secure his services.

Also Check: IPL 2025: 3 Uncapped Indian players who sparked a bidding war in auction

4. AM Ghazanfar

18-year-old Afghanistan spinner AM Ghazanfar was yet another surprise pick in the IPL 2025 mega auction. Beginning with a base price of INR 75 lakh, Ghazanfar went up to INR 4.8 crore. The youngster was roped in by five-time champions Mumbai Indians, and he will hope to put in his best performance for the side, if he gets a game.

It is worth noting that Ghazanfar began his cricket journey as a pacer. However, former Afghanistan skipper Dawlat Ahmadzai made the decision to turn him into a spinner. He came into the limelight after his stellar performances during the 2024 U-19 World Cup, where he finished with eight wickets in four matches. His performances also earned him a senior call-up, where he has managed to take 12 wickets in eight ODIs played.

Also Check: 3 Players RCB could have targeted over Jitesh Sharma at mega auction

3. Eshan Malinga

The only uncapped international player selected in the IPL 2025 mega auction, 23-year-old Eshan Malinga was roped in by Sunrisers Hyderabad for INR 1.2 crore. Considered a promising talent, Eshan had raised several ears after a Sri Lanka player named Malinga entered the auction table. Showcasing his class and the ability to adapt in various playing conditions saw Eshan Malinga become an unexpected target for many sides in the IPL.

With 13 T20s played, Eshan Malinga has taken 13 wickets and maintains an economy of 7.35. He will hope to impress in his stint with Sunrisers Hyderabad and hopefully get a chance in the playing XI as well. With a big name and an even bigger pay cheque, there will be a lot of hopes pinned on Malinga ahead of the IPL 2025.

Also Check: Top 10 oldest players in IPL 2025

2. Rasikh Salam

24-year-old India bowler Rasikh Salam was another unexpected pick in the IPL 2025 mega auction. Starting from a price point of INR 30 lakh, Rasikh had the likes of Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Delhi Capitals battling it out for the youngster. Eventually, he was roped in by RCB for a whopping INR 6 crore.

Rasikh has impressed with his limited performances for Delhi Capitals, and has showcased his prowess on several occasions. The star J&K bowler will hope for an extended amount of play time in IPL 2025. He will look to benefit from the experience of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. In 33 T20s played, Rasikh has taken 43 wickets to his name, and many have been looking forward to his performances in the new season of the IPL.

Also Check: 3 Players who attracted most bids at the IPL 2025 auction

 1. Vaibhav Suryavanshi

One of the most surprising inclusions in the IPL 2025 mega auction was 13-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi. Coming with a base price of INR 30 lakh, Delhi Capitals and Rajasthan Royals looked to secure his services, and in the end, he was roped in by Rajasthan Royals for INR 1.1 crore. He became the youngest IPL cricketer ever, and if he manages to make the playing XI of RR in a game, the 13-year-old will hope to make the most of the opportunity.

Having represented India U-19, Suryavanshi has been one of the most surprising picks in the IPL 2025 mega auction. As for his performances, the youngster has a triple century to his name in an U-19 tournament in Bihar, the Randhir Verma Tournament. Having been picked for RR, Suryavanshi will look to learn and make the best of the opportunities presented to him.

Disclaimer: This latest news is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.