Anurag Tyagi, Author at SportSutra

Grassroot Football: How It’s Shaping Future Stars

In any sport, the grassroots system is often the foundation for building a strong sports culture. In a country like India, where most sports play second fiddle to cricket, grassroots programs are essential for identifying and developing young talent. This is the stage where young athletes gain early exposure to structured training, which plays a significant role in shaping their future careers. For grassroots programs to be effective, they should be well-organized and widespread across the country, giving children from diverse backgrounds a real opportunity to pursue the sport and possibly play in India’s football premier league – Indian Super League (ISL).

Let’s take a deep dive and explore how grassroot football can shape the future of Indian football in every possible way.

What Is Grassroots Football?

Before moving forward, let’s discuss what grassroots football is and why it’s so important for the development of football in India.

Grassroots sports at any level involve engaging kids and introducing them to the game at a very young age. Grassroots programs focus on providing accessible and enjoyable experiences. These programs help kids learn essential skills such as passing, dribbling, and teamwork. The grassroot football system creates a positive environment where children can enjoy the game, learn the basics, and start building their skills early.

It’s important to understand that grassroots football isn’t limited to metro cities or big towns. This system reaches the far corners of the country, including rural areas where many talented kids might not otherwise have access to training. By opening up football to a broader group, these programs help create a large pool of potential future players.

AIFF’s Blue Cubs Program

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) runs a grassroots initiative called the Blue Cubs Program. This systematic program is tailored for children aged 4 to 12, helping introduce them to football through structured competition and training.

According to AIFF’s website, India’s official football body is also set to launch a competitive league, the Blue Cubs League, to engage young players in match formats from an early age. Under the program’s structure, children aged 4-6 will start with 2v2 and 3v3 games on small pitches without goalkeepers. As players grow, the pitch size and team format expand—ages 7-9 will play 5v5, and ages 10-12 will progress to a 7v7 format, with goalkeeping responsibilities rotated among players.

Through these collective efforts, elite players from Blue Cubs will be identified and trained as future National Team prospects. Through leagues and other tournaments, the Blue Cubs aim to create a comprehensive environment for youth development in Indian football.

The Role of Coaches in Grassroots Football

Johan Cruyff, the Dutch legend who revolutionized football with his total-football approach, once said,

“Quality without results is pointless. Results without quality are boring.”

India has no shortage of potential talent, yet many young athletes fade into obscurity due to a lack of quality training and opportunity. Grassroots programs can help penetrate the far reaches of India, but without skilled coaches, the results won’t be substantial. Quality coaches are essential to finding talent and nurturing them into world-class players who could represent clubs like Liverpool, Barcelona, Real Madrid, or Bayern Munich. Coaches must not only train but also motivate young players to push beyond their limits.

This approach can help promote confidence and resilience in children while allowing them to improve. Grassroots football also introduces young athletes to physical conditioning from an early age. They’re taught to care for their bodies, including through better dietary habits, which is vital for injury prevention and long-term health.

Tough Kids, Real Results

“Quality without results is pointless”—a powerful statement concerning India’s current football state . Despite a population of over a billion, India is no where near in playing in a FIFA World Cup. To get there, grassroots coaches need to instill a resilient, winning mindset in young players. They should learn the importance of results and the value of victory, with a balanced approach that encourages healthy competition.

Also Read: Challenges faced by Youth Football in India

Remember the 2016 Europa League final? Liverpool dominated the first half but scored only once. Sevilla, however, emerged in the second half with intensity and drive, overturning the game to win 3-1. Their relentless pursuit of the ball and pressing strategy turned the tide. This mentality—to press opponents without the ball and to compete as a team—should be part of young Indian players’ training.

This approach creates a positive chain reaction. As more talented kids progress, competition for spots increases, which pushes the young athletes to push each other and reach new levels. This healthy competitiveness is one reason India thrives in cricket and why South America and Europe continually produce elite football talent. Grassroots football programs with the right coaches and training philosophies can drive Indian football toward a promising future.

Conclusion

Grassroots football in India should be more than just an entry point; it should be the cornerstone of a larger vision for the future of Indian football. By building a foundation of skills, and providing pathways to professional development, grassroots programs can shape the next generation of Indian football stars. As these initiatives continue to grow and improve, the dream of seeing India produce world-class footballers capable of competing at the highest levels becomes ever more achievable.

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Teams with the biggest purse at 2025 IPL Mega Auction

The IPL 2025 Mega Auction will set the tone for the next five years. Looking back, moments like the IPL Mega Auctions were crucial for teams like Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians in sowing the seeds of their dynasties. The auction not only reshapes team rosters but also significantly impacts each franchise’s success in the upcoming seasons. Teams with larger budgets, or “purses,” have more flexibility in recruiting high-caliber players, allowing them to make strategic moves that could define their performance in the years to come.

However, just like salaried individuals, IPL 2025 teams must work within a fixed budget, with each team starting with INR 120 crores if they have no retained players. A limited budget means teams will need to strategize carefully when bidding for players, considering the right combination while factoring in the players they’ve already retained.

2025 IPL Mega Auction: How the budget works?

Before discussing each team’s purse for the 2025 IPL Mega Auction, it’s important to understand why some teams have a larger purse, while others must work with a smaller budget.

For those unfamiliar with IPL auction rules, it might seem like there’s a disparity or bias in how the budgets are set, but that’s not the case.

The IPL governing council has provided each team with a base budget of INR 120 crores heading into the auction. This budget is for the entire roster and represents the maximum amount only if a team enters the auction with a clean slate, meaning no retained players. If a team retains a player—say, for INR 10 crores—that amount is deducted from their budget, leaving them with INR 110 crores (120 – 10). This is why there’s a variation in the remaining budgets for teams heading into the auction.

Also Read: All about Salary Cap on Foreign Players ahead of IPL 2025 Auction

Players retained by every team ahead of 2025 IPL Mega Auction

Every team had some high-profile players on their roster, whom they had the right to retain. While teams did retain players, this came at a cost. As mentioned earlier, the cost of retaining players, which includes their salaries, is deducted from their total budget of INR 120 crores. Below is the list of players retained by each team ahead of the 2025 IPL Mega Auction.

Virat Kohli is the only A-List player retained by RCB

Chennai Super Kings Retained Players

MS Dhoni
Matheesha Pathirana (foreign player)
Ruturaj Gaikwad
Ravindra Jadeja
Shivam Dube

Delhi Capitals Retained Players

Axar Patel
Kuldeep Yadav
Tristan Stubbs (foreign player)
Abishek Porel

Gujarat Titans Retained Players

Rashid Khan (foreign player)
Shubman Gill
B Sai Sudharsan
Rahul Tewatia
Shahrukh Khan

Kolkata Knight Riders Retained Players

Sunil Narine (foreign player)
Rinku Singh
Varun Chakravarthy
Andre Russell (foreign player)
Ramandeep Singh
Harshit Rana

Lucknow Super Giants Retained Players

Nicholas Pooran (foreign player)
Mayank Yadav
Ravi Bishnoi
Mohsin Khan
Ayush Badoni

Mumbai Indians Retained Players

Rohit Sharma
Suryakumar Yadav
Tilak Varma
Hardik Pandya
Jasprit Bumrah

Punjab Kings Retained Players

Prabhsimran Singh
Shashank Singh

Royal Challengers Bangalore Retained Players

Virat Kohli
Rajat Patidar
Yash Dayal

Rajasthan Royals Retained Players

Sanju Samson
Yashasvi Jaiswal
Riyan Parag
Sandeep Sharma
Shimron Hetmyer (foreign player)
Dhruv Jurel

Sunrisers Hyderabad Retained Players

Heinrich Klaasen (foreign player)
Pat Cummins (foreign player)
Abhishek Sharma
Travis Head (foreign player)
Nitish Kumar Reddy

Remaining budget of every team ahead of 2025 IPL Mega Auction

As mentioned earlier, the cost of retaining players reduces the total available budget by that same amount. Rajasthan Royals have the smallest budget available, as they retained players such as Sanju Samson, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag, and Dhruv Jurel, all of whom are part of India’s team setup in various formats.

Punjab Kings, on the other hand, have the largest purse available, having retained only two players, Shahrukh Khan and Prabhsimran Singh. It’s worth highlighting that PBKS are the only team with a remaining budget of over INR 100 crores. They can certainly make a strong impact on the proceedings at the 2025 IPL Auction.

Mumbai Indians and Sunrisers Hyderabad are the two other teams, besides Rajasthan Royals, with a budget of less than INR 50 crores.

Franchise	Retained Players	Purse Spent (INR)	Purse Available (INR)
CSK	5	65	55
DC	4	47	73
GT	5	51	69
KKR	6	69	51
LSG	5	51	69
MI	5	75	45
PBKS	2	9.5	110.5
RCB	3	37	83
RR	6	79	41
SRH	5	75	45

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IPL Auction 2025: Why there is a Salary Cap on Foreign Player Fee this year?

The IPL Auction 2025 will be a one-of-a-kind event. Whatever unfolds over the two days in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, one thing is certain: it will have a major impact on the teams’ immediate future and on the players’ lives. Teams must be nearly flawless in managing their budgets for player services, while players will be glued to their screens, hoping at least one team shows interest in their skills.

Indian players will undoubtedly be in high demand due to IPL’s playing conditions. For those unfamiliar, each IPL team must field at least seven Indian players in their playing XI, with a maximum of four foreign players per match. Speaking of foreign players, a new condition has been introduced by the IPL governing council. According to this rule, there’s now a salary cap on foreign player fees in the 2025 auction. But why?

Also Read: What are new RTM rules?

IPL Auction 2025: Why there is a Salary Cap on Foreign Player Fee this year?

With the IPL Auction 2025 comes a new cap on foreign player fees, aimed at preventing overseas players from securing excessive contracts due to team desperation, especially in mini-auctions. For example, before IPL 2024, a mini-auction in December 2023 saw Mitchell Starc command a record-breaking INR 24.75 crores, as Kolkata Knight Riders went all-in for his services, making him the most expensive signing in IPL history. Similarly, Pat Cummins was acquired by Sunrisers Hyderabad for INR 20.75 crores, marking the second-highest bid.

How the Salary Cap on foreign players work?

This new salary cap intends to prevent foreign players from taking advantage of franchises’ high demand for players. Starting in 2026, foreign player salaries will be capped at the highest retention or auction price paid to Indian players. This means foreign players can earn up to, but not more than, the top-paid Indian player for a season. This cap aims to balance player salaries, prevent inflated bids for international talent, and ensure fair distribution between local and foreign players.

Additionally, if a foreign player’s final bid exceeds the cap, the franchise will pay the difference to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), which will use these funds for player welfare. This policy reflects IPL’s effort to maintain competitive balance and sustainably manage its expanding player market.

When Will IPL Auction 2025 take place?

The Mega IPL 2025 Auction will be held over two days: November 24 and November 25.

Where will the IPL 2025 Auction be held?

The IPL 2025 Auction will take place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

How many players have registered for the IPL 2025 Auction?

This is a major event, with players from numerous countries registering. Specifically, 1,574 players have entered their names into the IPL 2025 auction pool, hoping to secure a life-changing contract.

How to watch live streaming of the IPL 2025 Auction?

The live streaming of the IPL 2025 Auction will be available on the JioCinema Mobile App. It can also be accessed on the JioCinema website.

How to watch the live broadcast of the IPL 2025 Auction on TV?

The live broadcast of the IPL 2025 Auction will be available on the Star Sports TV Network.

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Youth Football in India: Challenges and Opportunities

Football has been gaining significant momentum in India, stepping out of its former niche status. While cricket remains the dominant sport, the launch of the Indian Super League (ISL), along with the restructuring of the football system that places the I-League in the second tier, has made the pathway to professional football clearer for aspiring players.

However, youth football in India still faces multiple challenges. Limited awareness among parents and players about the football system and a strong academic focus that leaves little room for sports make the journey for young footballers especially tough. Here, we explore the challenges and opportunities facing youth football in India.

Challenges in Youth Football in India

Limited Awareness Among Parents and Players

One of the biggest challenges in youth football is a lack of understanding among young players and their parents about how the football system operates in India. Unlike in European countries where football clubs also offer education, making it a perfect system for kids, India lacks a clear path. Many parents are unfamiliar with the steps needed for their children to progress in football, such as which football academies to join, and at what level do the academies professional contracts to the young footballers. This lack of knowledge leads many parents to shy away from investing time and resources into football, opting instead to focus on academics.

The Pressure of Academics

India’s school system is heavily focused on academic performance. The education system prioritizes academic success, leaving students under intense pressure from both schools and parents to perform well in studies. This leaves little time for sports, especially for sports other than cricket. For many students, academics take up most of their day, with time for extracurricular activities such as playing football, often limited to one or two hours. The stress to excel in studies discourages many parents from allowing their children to invest time in sports such as football, where there’s no clear pathway. Parents also prioritize academics, as they view it as the safest route to a stable career.

Limited Support for Sports in Schools

In India, only a few schools place equal importance on sports, and those that do often prioritize cricket or individual sports such as badminton and lawn tennis. Football, along with other team sports like basketball, remains underfunded and less supported. Additionally, there are very few schools with a dedicated football program. This lack of infrastructure prevents talented young players from training consistently and reaching their full potential.

Opportunities in Youth Football in India

Despite these challenges and the relatively slow pace of development, football in India is moving in the right direction. While progress may be gradual, there are positive aspects to consider. The emergence of the ISL has helped streamline the system, providing more opportunities for young players and resources for the sport.

More Investment in Football through the ISL

Let’s be honest, it’s true that “what is seen, sells.” The Indian Super League (ISL) brought much-needed exposure to football in India. The matches are broadcast live during prime time on the country’s biggest networks. High-profile owners such as John Abraham and Abhishek Bachchan, to name a few, created a buzz around football across media and social media platforms. With more attention came more money, and money is the solution to most, if not all, problems.

For football to carve out a space for itself in India, much beyond the following of leagues like the Premier League, La Liga, or Serie A, the ISL has sparked a surge of interest and investment in Indian football. The league has not only attracted international attention but also increased funding for players and teams. ISL clubs are developing youth academies and offering scholarships, providing young footballers with more opportunities as career option.

International Opportunities with European Academies

With India’s exceptional growth over the past decade, the middle class has seen a significant rise in per capita income. With more disposable income, parents can now afford to send their children to European football academies. While it’s challenging to gain admission into renowned academies like Barcelona’s La Masia, Ajax’s Youth Academy, or Liverpool’s Academy, there are other quality options for Indian parents, such as the Alicante Football Academy.

If a child possesses exceptional talent in football, these academies are open to accepting kids from other countries, including India. They offer high-quality training and exposure to European football standards. European academies provide a viable option for Indian parents seeking better football opportunities for their children.

Careers Beyond Playing: Youth Football in India

With more money and traction around football, there are other opportunities for those who couldn’t make it as professional footballers.

As the focus on football grows, there is an increasing demand for writers who can provide news, analysis, and updates on football events both in India and globally. Similarly, the field of football management is expanding, with roles in team management, event organization, and player representation becoming more prevalent.

Additionally, as more children take up the sport, there is a growing need for quality coaches in India. This presents a unique opportunity for retired football players, as well as younger ones, to carve out a career as coaches. With football spreading to previously untouched corners of the country, there is significant potential for new academies. These academies play a crucial role in bridging the gap for young players who may not have access to proper facilities and coaching in schools.

The Road Ahead

For youth football to truly flourish in India, changes are needed across various levels of sports and educational system. Schools and parents must acknowledge the value of sports and recognize football as a legitimate career option. More schools should be encouraged to support sports equally, providing facilities and infrastructure not just for cricket, but for football and other sports as well. Moreover, parents need to be made aware of the growing opportunities in football and should be more willing to support their children’s passion for football.

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The Role of Football Academies in India’s Talent Pipeline

Football has been a beloved sport in India for decades, but it has often taken a backseat to cricket in terms of popularity and professional development. However, in recent years, football has slowly begun to rise in prominence, and one of the key drivers of this growth is the emergence of Indian Super League (ISL). With money pumping into the sport, young kids now want to take up sports and aim to become professional footballers. Academies play a crucial role in that regard. They nurture and develop young talent, and lay the foundation for a bright future for the young and aspiring footballer.

Academies: The Backbone Of A Football Infrastructure

Why football thrive in Europe?

This simple question has a simple answer. Football’s success in Europe is primarily due to the robust infrastructure created by the football clubs and academies. This well-established system ensures a continuous flow of talented players. When a Lionel Messi retires, there’s always a Lamine Yamal ready to take over the reins.

But India is still way behind Europe in terms of creating a proper football system at the grassroot level. Let alone young footballers, even many parents are unsure about how football works in India and how a talented kid can break into the Indian Super League (ISL). This lack of awareness is one of the reasons we don’t see players like Baichung Bhutia or Sunil Chhetri consistently emerging from the ranks.

But with the emergence of the ISL, there are signs that the gap between the league and regional football academies, which are often independent, is narrowing. ISL clubs are always on the lookout for the next Baichung Bhutia or Sunil Chhetri, and that’s when they turn their attention to the academies.

Why Role of Football Academies in India’s Talent Pipeline is critical?

Football academies are specialized institutions that provide structured coaching, training, and support to young players. Their role is not just about teaching the technical skills of the game but also about identifying talented kids, improving their physical fitness, preparing them mentally, and helping them understand the tactical aspects of football. Academies serve as a bridge between grassroots development and professional football.

Also Read The Journey of an Indian Footballer: From Grassroots to ISL

In India, where schools are heavily focused on academics, the role of football academies becomes even more critical. Through these academies, children can start training in football from the age of six or seven — an ideal age to provide them with a strong foundation, teaching everything from basic dribbling to advanced tactical play.

ISL and I-League clubs actively scout football academies for talented young players. If a kid shows exceptional promise, these academies can fast-track his career, offering a potential path to the ISL.

Conclusion: Academies are lifeline

Football academies play a vital role in shaping the future of football. Barcelona’s famous La Masia has produced some of the best players to ever grace the game, none bigger than Lionel Messi, and the latest to come through the ranks of this renowned academy is Lamine Yamal. Ajax has managed to sustain success because of its renowned football academy. Ajax is often referred to as a “feeder club” because they nurture players and sell them to bigger clubs such as Liverpool and Real Madrid.

In simple words, academies are the lifeline of any football system. They help build a sustainable, competitive, and inclusive football culture. A strong academy system is key to unlocking India’s potential as a powerhouse in the world of football.

The Journey of an Indian Footballer: From Grassroots to ISL

Arguably the world’s most popular sport, football still plays second fiddle in India. Cricket remains the dominant sport, the go-to pastime for most Indians, yet football has a rich history here. India’s first football club is said to have been established as far back as 1872, and one of the world’s oldest football competitions, the Durand Cup, began in 1888—ten years before Italy’s premier league, Serie A.

Despite its early history, India has yet to see a player play for clubs like Real Madrid, Liverpool, Barcelona, or Bayern Munich. However, the rise of the Indian Super League (ISL) has brought a much-needed structure to Indian football.

Football as a career in India

With esteemed players like Roberto Carlos, Robert Pires, Diego Forlan, Alessandro Del Piero, Nicolas Anelka, and Dimitar Berbatov joining the league, sponsorship and money followed. The monetary rewards have become a major factor in young athletes choosing football as a career. In fact, some players, like Sunil Chhetri, earn crores from ISL salaries alone. So, there’s no shortage of money in the league.

Also Read: 3 All-rounders who might start a bidding war in 2025 IPL Auction

However, the journey of an Indian footballer—from grassroots to the ISL—is one of perseverance, passion, and overcoming numerous challenges. Here, we explore this journey and how an aspiring Indian footballer can make his way to the ISL, provided he has the talent and is ready to put in the effort.

Grassroots – Inculcating Sports Habits

The grassroots level is where the journey begins for most footballers, and at its heart is the school system. Unlike Europe, where education systems are more flexible, most Indian schools are heavily focused on academics. For an aspiring Indian footballer, it’s crucial to find a school with a strong sports program. These schools participate in inter-school tournaments, including football. Enrolling a child in a school with a strong sports structure can help introduce them to football at a very young age.

Developmental Leagues – Next Phase in Journey Of An Indian Footballer

Several organizations, including the All India Football Federation (AIFF), local state football associations, and private academies, run grassroots programs aimed at nurturing young talent. Initiatives like the AIFF Youth Development Programme, Reliance Foundation Youth Sports, and Tata Steel Foundation‘s Youth Football Leagues provide youngsters with the resources, facilities, and exposure they need to grow as footballers. These youth leagues are perfect opportunities for young footballers to play in age-group competitions, such as the Subroto Cup (for school teams), AIFF U-13, U-15, and U-18 Championships, and state-level tournaments.

I League 2 & State Leagues – First Step To Professional Football

The I-League 2nd Division and State Leagues form the backbone of the Indian football system; this is where players take their first steps toward professional football in India. The I-League 2nd Division acts as a promotion league for clubs aiming to play in the I-League, the second tier of Indian football. It’s an essential stage for players looking to become professional footballers.

In addition, state football associations organize regional leagues. For example, the Delhi Soccer Association (DSA) runs a two-tier league in Delhi. Other renowned state leagues include the Goa Professional League, the West Bengal State Football League, and the Karnataka State Football League. These leagues provide valuable opportunities for local talent to develop and get scouted by higher-tier clubs.

Most clubs in the I-League 2nd Division and State Leagues also offer professional contracts, which can be the first professional deal for young Indian players.

I-League: India’s 2nd Tier

Before the emergence of the Indian Super League, the I-League was the top-tier professional football competition in India, and it remains a crucial part of the country’s football landscape. Established in 2007, it was the first national league to create a professional structure for clubs across India. The I-League features clubs from various regions and is still considered the most competitive league in terms of footballing culture and history in India.

For young Indian footballers, their journey from grassroots to the ISL often goes through the I-League. This is where things get serious—where average players are filtered out, and talented ones start drawing attention from ISL teams.

Indian Super League (ISL): India’s Premier Football League

The Indian Super League (ISL), launched in 2014, is India’s top-tier football league. With esteemed players featuring in this league, it has become a commercially successful football competition.

The ISL attracts international football stars, coaches, and significant investment, which has helped elevate the quality of football in India. For aspiring Indian footballers, playing in the ISL is the ultimate dream. Good players earn a solid income, while generational talents like Sunil Chhetri can earn crores. From here, the sky’s the limit for Indian footballers. Who knows, one day we might see a footballer catching the attention of European clubs due to his performances in the ISL.

Conclusion

The steps mentioned above are just a reference—there’s no hard and fast rule for a young kid to become a professional footballer in India. ISL clubs also run their own academies and take in young talent. If a player is good enough, they can secure a professional contract with an ISL club and get a chance to play in the league, without needing to go through the lower-tier leagues. Ultimately, it’s all about talent and the player’s intent.

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3 All Rounders Who Can Break The Bank At 2025 IPL Auction

Players who can make an impact both as bowlers and batsmen are 24-carat gold dust. They are truly rare, and it’s not an exaggeration. One only needs to look at the squads of all teams; there aren’t many players in the mold of Hardik Pandya, Ben Stokes, or Shakib Al Hasan. That’s why, in the upcoming 2025 IPL Auction, every team will be waiting for the moment when the auctioneer brings out the all-rounders’ list.

But among the many all-rounders registering for the auction for IPL 2025, three players, in particular, are expected to be on the radar of multiple teams. These three might spark a bidding frenzy among IPL owners.

Sam Curran: 2022 T20 World Cup Hero

Sam Curran has a history of delivering as an all-rounder in high-stakes games. Winning the Player of the Tournament during the ICC 2022 T20 World Cup was no mean feat. He also won the Man of the Match award in the final of the international T20 showpiece event after picking up three wickets for just 12 runs against Pakistan.

Having already played multiple seasons in the IPL, Curran is familiar with the conditions and pressure of the Indian Premier League. Given his all-around skill set, versatility, and IPL experience, Sam Curran is likely to attract strong interest in the 2024 auction, with multiple teams potentially vying to add his unique skill set to their rosters.

Sam Curran IPL Stats

Matches	Runs	HS	100s	50s	Wickets	Best
59	883	63	–	05	58	4/11

Also Read: IPL Auction 2025: 7 Bowlers Who Could Fetch the Maximum Bid

Washington Sundar: Successor to Ravindra Jadeja

Every cricketer has that moment that changes everything in his career. The recently concluded series against New Zealand was arguably a career-changing moment for Washington Sundar. Though India performed alarmingly below expectations, Washington was perhaps the only positive to take from that unforgettable series.

The 25-year-old picked up a remarkable 16 wickets in two Tests against the Kiwis and remained not out in two of the four innings he batted.

Indeed, his IPL profile doesn’t do justice to the immense all-round quality he has, but he has improved a lot and looks like a completely different player these days. What’s remarkable is that despite not featuring regularly in the recent IPL seasons, Sundar managed to keep his economy below 8, which is commendable.

With his all-around capabilities, and ability to bowl economically in powerplays, Washington Sundar is likely to attract strong interest in the 2024 IPL auction. Franchises will see him as a valuable asset who can contribute to both the batting and bowling departments.

Washington Sundar IPL Stats

Matches	Runs	HS	100s	50s	Wickets	Best
60	378	40	–	00	37	3/16

Also Read IPL 2025 Mega Auction: Top targets for All 10 Teams

Liam Livingstone: Most In-form all-rounder

The last few months have seen a revival of Liam Livingstone’s white-ball career. Since the home series against Australia, the England all-rounder is playing like a possessed man, as if he has something to prove. Whatever it is, the 31-year-old has certainly forced his way into the conversation. He is in the limelight for all the right reasons, after some outstanding displays of batting and bowling.

Against Australia, Livingstone scored 124 runs and picked up two wickets in 2 T20Is. Most recently, the Englishman scored a remarkable century, scoring an unbeaten 124 runs off just 85 balls, saving his nation from the jaws of defeat against the West Indies.

Livingstone is an explosive batsman who can adapt to various batting positions. His useful leg-spin, adds another dimension to his game. Liam Livingstone will surely be a strong contender to attract intense interest in the 2024 IPL auction.

Liam Livingstone IPL Stats

Matches	Runs	HS	100s	50s	Wickets	Best
39	939	94	–	06	11	3/27

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7 Indian batsmen who will be in high demand at IPL 2025 Auction

There are few events in cricket that can change the life of a cricketer. Winning the World Cups or any other ICC event does indeed rank high on the priority list of every cricketer, but when it comes to life-changing moments, nothing can top the big cheques players earn from the Indian Premier League. One such event is fast approaching, and every player is waiting for that moment with bated breath.

The IPL has now reached a level similar to that of the NBA and other top European leagues, where even the slightest mistake can cost teams heavily. That’s why teams also have to be at the top of their game when it comes to planning and buying players in the IPL 2025 AUCTION. It’s all about making the best out of their money—an astute investment.

But due to IPL’s playing conditions surrounding team compositions, Indian players, like always, will be in high demand. At this time, there are some high-profile players who will be in the auction, such as Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul, amongst many. So here are 7 Indian batsmen who will be in high demand at IPL 2025 Auction.

Rishabh Pant – The Dynamite Wicketkeeper

One of the biggest shocks when IPL teams released their list of retained players was the omission of Rishabh Pant. This news quickly became a hot topic of discussion among cricket fans. The reason is simple: Rishabh Pant is young, a pure match-winner, and at the peak of his powers. He’s the kind of player any franchise would want to build its future around for the next 7-8 years. Just like Chennai Super Kings did with MS Dhoni, and Mumbai Indians with Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, and Suryakumar Yadav.

Whatever the reason for Pant being placed in the auction pool, one thing is certain: he is likely to be one of the biggest attractions in the IPL 2025 mega auction. A handful of teams are looking to fill the wicket-keeping spot, with CSK being one of the frontrunners. His ability to bat in various positions—ranging from No. 4 to No. 6—combined with his aggressive playing style and potential as a match-winner, makes him a prime candidate for a bidding war.

Rishabh Pant IPL Stats

Matches	Runs	HS	100s	50s	4s	6s
111	3284	128*	01	18	296	154

Shreyas Iyer – Captaincy Option & Middle-Order Maestro

When KKR stormed their way to the IPL 2024 title, it seemed almost unthinkable that Shreyas Iyer wouldn’t be retained. Yet, that’s exactly what happened. KKR’s think tank decided that retaining players like Sunil Narine, Rinku Singh, Varun Chakravarthy, Andre Russell, Ramandeep Singh, and Harshit Rana was a better option than holding on to their captain.

The 29-year-old will undoubtedly strengthen the batting line-up of any team that signs him. What sets him apart is his ability to anchor innings while also possessing the technique and flair to clear the ropes when needed. With his experience and leadership skills, it’s certain that there will be fierce competition for his services in the IPL 2025 mega auction.

Shreyas Iyer IPL Stats

Matches	Runs	HS	100s	50s	4s	6s
115	3127	96	–	21	271	113

Also Read: 7 Bowlers Who Could Fetch the Maximum Bid

KL Rahul – 2020 Orange Cap Winner

During an IPL 2024 match against Sunrisers Hyderabad, KL Rahul was seen having a heated conversation with Lucknow Super Giants owner Sanjiv Goenka. Cricket fans didn’t take the matter lightly and voiced their frustration at Goenka for mistreating a player of KL Rahul’s stature in public. Since then, it was presumed that Rahul was likely to leave LSG, and that’s exactly what happened. He is in the IPL 2025 Auction pool, and there will be no shortage of teams looking to sign a player of Rahul’s calibre.

The most likely destination for Rahul, according to many, is Royal Challengers Bangalore, but don’t expect this to be a straightforward bidding process. His former team Punjab Kings is also rumored to be in the reckoning, and that means a hot bidding war.

Teams will be looking for Rahul’s experience and reliability, especially in pressure situations. With his proven IPL record, Rahul will likely be one of the most sought-after players during the IPL 2025 auction. Expect a fierce bidding war among top teams when Rahul’s name pops out of the hat.

KL Rahul IPL Stats

Matches	Runs	HS	100s	50s	4s	6s
132	4683	132*	04	37	400	187

Ishan Kishan – The Power-Hitter Opener

One of the main cogs during Mumbai Indians’ period of utter dominance, Ishan Kishan is likely to attract just as much attention as Rishabh Pant in the IPL 2025 mega auction, if not more. The main reason Mumbai Indians didn’t retain him was the sheer number of high-profile players in their squad, coupled with IPL’s retention policies, which somewhat limited their options.

An aggressive Indian batsman at the top of the order who can change the game in just a few overs is like gold dust. He’s fearless, dynamic, and a pure match-winner on any given day. Ishan Kishan is sure to be the centre of a bidding war during the upcoming auction, and his explosive potential makes him one of the most sought-after players.

Ishan Kishan IPL Stats

Matches	Runs	HS	100s	50s	4s	6s
105	2644	99	–	16	255	119

Manish Pandey – The Experienced Middle-Order Anchor

Manish Pandey has been a stalwart of the IPL for many years. While he may not always grab the headlines with explosive knocks, his consistency is a key factor that could see teams bidding big for his services.

The former RCB star played just one match during KKR’s title-winning campaign in IPL 2024, but he still managed to leave his mark. Coming in at No. 7 with KKR reeling at 57 for 5, Pandey scored a crucial 42 runs off 31 balls and helped his team post 169 runs against Mumbai Indians. KKR won that match by 24 runs, and his 42-run innings played a pivotal role in that victory.

Manish Pandey IPL Stats

Matches	Runs	HS	100s	50s	4s	6s
171	3850	114*	01	22	335	110

Angkrish Raghivanshi – Player with a high ceiling

There was a lot of hype around KKR’s Angkrish Raghivanshi before the start of the IPL 2024 season. KKR backed him, and he played 10 matches in his debut IPL campaign. While his tally of 163 runs didn’t quite live up to expectations, he did enough to justify the hype. The young batter scored one half-century and hit 16 fours and 8 sixes in those 10 matches, showing glimpses of his incredible potential.

Raghivanshi is a raw talent with immense potential. He will only get better with time, and many franchises will see him as a future star. Expect his name to generate considerable buzz during the auction, and he could become one of the breakout players in IPL 2025.

Angkrish Raghuvanshi IPL Stats

Matches	Runs	HS	100s	50s	4s	6s
10	163	54	–	01	16	08

Deepak Hooda – Experienced Destroyer

Despite misfiring in the last two IPL seasons, Deepak Hooda remains a valuable asset for any team. He belongs to the rare breed of all-rounders who can hit big shots during the middle overs, and his batting approach is similar to Suryakumar Yadav’s, with an ability to play outrageous shots all around the park.

Hooda’s best IPL season came in 2022 when he smashed 451 runs in just 14 innings while playing the role of a finisher. Hooda will surely attract attention from a variety of teams in the 2025 mega auction.

Deepak Hooda IPL Stats

Matches	Runs	HS	100s	50s	4s	6s
118	1465	64	–	08	96	61

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IPL Auction 2025: 7 Bowlers Who Could Fetch the Maximum Bid

It’s that time again when every IPL team has to press the reset button. Except for meeting certain conditions set by the retention policy, each team is forced to reshape their squad from last season. Letting go of the best players is challenging, especially for franchises like Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings, and Kolkata Knight Riders. But the auction also gives other teams a golden opportunity to build a squad capable of mounting a serious title challenge. Here are 7 bowlers who could fetch the maximum bid at IPL auction 2025.

Building a team is like completing a jigsaw puzzle—every piece needs to be in place and complement the others. Quality batsmen add spectacle to the game, but for franchises, investing in top-notch bowlers is essential, as they are crucial for winning pivotal moments in T20 matches, particularly in the death overs.

Just like previous mega auctions, the bidding frenzy for top-tier bowlers is likely to reach fever pitch. Some high-profile bowlers will go under the hammer in the upcoming IPL Auction 2025, and here are seven bowlers who might attract the highest bids.

1. Mohammad Shami (India)

Mohammad Shami has been a mainstay in India’s fast-bowling attack for years. Known for his ability to reverse the ball and generate pace, Shami’s value in T20 cricket is immense, especially with his experience in international cricket. Shami was the main reason why Gujarat Titans won the IPL 2023 title during their inaugural season. Though he sat out the entire IPL 2024 season due to an injury and is still not 100%, he is still a premium fast bowler.

IPL Stats (2023): 45 matches, 52 wickets, economy rate of 8.03.
Best IPL figures: 4/11.

Shami’s ability to bowl consistently at high speeds and reverse the ball makes him a potent weapon, particularly in the powerplay and death overs. His experience, combined with his ability to bowl under pressure, makes him an attractive pick for any IPL franchise.

2. Mitchell Starc (Australia)

Mitchell Starc is one of the finest fast bowlers in the world, known for his raw pace and ability to bowl lethal yorkers in the death overs. Though he has played only three seasons in the IPL, his performances in in KKR’s IPL 2024 title win was instrumental. especially in the biggest matches. Starc won man-of-the-match award in both the playoff and the final match.

IPL Stats (2024): 14 matches, 17 wickets, economy rate of 8.21.
Best IPL figures: 4/33.

Starc’s ability to bowl at high speed makes him a constant threat in the T20 format. His tall frame allows him to generate extra bounce, and his accuracy with the yorker and slower ball make him a must-have in any IPL team.

Given his limited but impactful IPL appearances, the 2025 auction could see Starc fetch a massive bid, just like IPL 2023 mini auction.

3. Jofra Archer (England)

Jofra Archer is one of the most feared bowlers in world cricket, known for his pace, bounce, and ability to bowl match-winning yorkers. But his career so far has been marred by injuries. When fit, Archer is easily amongst the most lethal bowler in all formats of the game. During the IPL 2020 season, while playing for Rajasthan Royals, Archer picked up 20 wickets in only 14 matches.

Best IPL Season (2020): 20 wickets in 14 matches, economy rate of 7.13.
Best IPL figures: 3/15.

Archer’s pace (often exceeding 140 km/h) and his ability to bowl under pressure make him a significant threat, particularly in the final overs. Having regained full fitness, Archer is expected to attract a massive bid at the IPL Auction 2025.

4. Arshdeep Singh (India)

India’s left-arm pacer, Arshdeep Singh, has emerged as one of the most consistent performers for India in the white-ball format. Like Mitchell Starc, Arshdeep belongs to the rare breed of left-arm fast bowlers who deliver at impressive speeds. At just 25, Arshdeep’s best years are still ahead of him, which spells trouble for batsmen around the world. He finished the IPL 2024 season as the joint fourth-highest wicket-taker.

IPL Stats (2024): 14 matches, 19 wickets, economy rate of 9.03.
Best IPL figures: 5/32.

What makes Arshdeep special is his ability to bowl in the pressure-packed death overs, consistently hitting the yorker length. His growing reputation on the international stage will only increase his value at the 2025 auction.

5. Mohammed Siraj (India)

It came as a shock when Royal Challengers Bangalore decided against retaining Mohammed Siraj ahead of the IPL 2025 season. Over the years, Siraj has been RCB’s go-to bowler in all situations and is easily one of India’s best bowlers across formats. Siraj’s best IPL campaign came during the 2023 season when he picked up 19 wickets in 14 matches.

IPL Stats (Overall): 93 matches, 93 wickets, economy rate of 8.65.
Best IPL figures: 4/21.

At only 30 years of age, Siraj is arguably at the peak of his powers. He has consistently delivered for India, and combined with his IPL experience, he is likely to spark a bidding war among teams in the 2025 IPL auction.

6. Harshal Patel (India)

A two-time IPL Purple Cap winner, Harshal Patel has been one of the standout performers in recent years. Known for his variations, particularly his slower balls and cutters, he makes life difficult for batsmen. He is the current Purple Cap holder, having taken 24 wickets in IPL 2024.

IPL Stats (2024): 14 matches, 24 wickets, economy rate of 9.73.
Best IPL figures: 5/27.

Harshal’s skill set, particularly his ability to execute slower balls and yorkers, is in high demand in the IPL. As teams continue to look for bowlers who can bowl effectively in the middle and death overs, Harshal will likely be a sought-after player at the IPL 2025 auction.

7. T Natarajan (India)

T Natarajan, known as the “Yorker King,” has earned a reputation for his impeccable yorkers and death-bowling prowess. His breakout IPL season came in 2020, when he burst onto the scene with 16 wickets, playing a key role as Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) reached the playoffs.

IPL Stats (2024): 14 matches, 19 wickets, economy rate of 9.06.
Best IPL figures: 4/19.

Natarajan’s yorkers and accurate death bowling are invaluable in T20 cricket. Given the growing demand for bowlers who can control the final overs and take wickets at crucial moments, Natarajan will be one of the most sought-after bowlers at the IPL Auction 2025. What strengthens Natarajan’s case even further is that his best IPL season came last year, when he picked up 19 wickets, finishing as the joint fourth-highest wicket-taker in the tournament.

Conclusion

As the IPL teams continues to prioritize death bowling and powerplay mastery, these seven bowlers are likely to be in high demand, and with their match-winning abilities, they could easily secure some of the largest contracts in IPL history. Whether it’s Shami’s experience, Starc’s pace, Archer’s yorkers, Arshdeep’s death bowling, Siraj’s experience, Harshal’s variations, or Natarajan’s precision, each of these bowlers has what it takes to set the IPL auction on fire.