5 Unsold players in IPL 2025 who might spark bidding wars in IPL 2026 Auction

Excitement is soaring high as IPL 2026 approaches, but before that, a mini-auction is likely to take place in December 2025. All franchises will be eager to build a strong and balanced squad. Currently, every fan is waiting for the players who are going to be retained by every franchise for the upcoming season. 

However, a few players who went unsold last season might turn out to be hot picks this time around, as they have shown some glimpse of them being at their absolute best. 

Here are the 5 unsold players in IPL 2025 who might spark bidding wars in IPL 2026 Auction

1. Prithvi Shaw

At 25, Prithvi Shaw looks ready for a strong comeback. Despite playing 79 IPL matches, he went unsold last season and wasn’t even considered as an injury replacement. But his recent domestic form has been impressive. 

He smashed a double century for Maharashtra against Chandigarh in the Ranji Trophy — the third-fastest (141 balls) in the tournament’s history. Overall, Shaw has scored 1,892 IPL runs at a strike rate of 147.46, including 14 fifties. His fearless batting might attract teams looking for an explosive opener.

2. Shai Hope

West Indies batter Shai Hope has been showing impressive consistency in T20 cricket. A technically sound player, he can anchor an innings or open the batting. In the recent T20I series against Bangladesh and New Zealand, he struck three half-centuries in a row.

Hope featured for Delhi Capitals in IPL 2024, scoring 183 runs in nine innings at a strike rate of 150. Teams looking for stability at the top might go after him this time. 

3. Luke Wood

England’s left-arm pacer Luke Wood could be a handy buy. He played two games for Mumbai Indians in IPL 2024, taking one wicket but conceding heavily. However, his recent outings for England have been promising.

Across 200 T20s, Wood has 210 wickets at an economy of 8.41. With teams always searching for quality left-arm options, he might get a few takers this time. With that new ball in hand, his pacy in-swingers can trouble batters at the start of their innings.

4. Matthew Short

Australian all-rounder Matthew Short could be one of the most useful players in IPL 2026. An off-spinner who can hit big shots at the top or in the middle order, Short offers great flexibility.

He had a short stint with Punjab Kings in IPL 2023, scoring 117 runs without taking a wicket. But since then, he has become a regular in Australia’s T20 setup. His all-round skills and adaptability might make him an attractive pick.

5. Keshav Maharaj

South African spinner Keshav Maharaj could be an exciting addition for many franchises. He played two matches for Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2024, taking two wickets at an economy of 6.50.

In 191 T20s, Maharaj has 162 wickets at an economy of 6.99. His ability to vary pace and bowl wicket-to-wicket makes him a valuable spin option, especially on Indian pitches. Maharaj could be a pivotal option, especially in the middle overs.

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