IPL Mega Auction 2025: Naman Dhir — Allah Ghazanfar, emerging stars who bagged multi-crore deals

IPL Mega Auction 2025: Naman Dhir — Allah Ghazanfar, emerging stars bag multi-crore deals

The IPL mega auction 2025 proved once again that cricket is a game of opportunities, with lesser-known players walking away with life-changing contracts. This year, franchises went all out to secure fresh talent with immense potential. Here’s a look at some of the auction’s standout stories of under-the-radar stars who made it big:

Nehal Wadera – Punjab Kings, ₹4.20 Crore

A prolific batter from Punjab, Nehal has been making waves with his consistency in domestic cricket. Known for his elegant left-handed strokes, the 20-year-old impressed with centuries in the Ranji Trophy and crucial knocks in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where Punjab clinched their maiden title in 2023. A solid middle-order anchor with the ability to accelerate when needed, Nehal’s IPL journey began with Mumbai Indians, and now Punjab Kings have brought him home.

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Allah Ghazanfar – Mumbai Indians, ₹4.80 Crore

Afghanistan’s 6’5” tall spin-bowling all-rounder Allah Ghazanfar emerged as a surprise pick for Mumbai Indians. With an impressive 29 wickets at an economy of 5.71 in T20s, he offers MI a dependable option to counter left-heavy batting lineups. Known for his clever variations and handy lower-order batting, Ghazanfar’s inclusion adds depth and balance to the team’s roster.

Angkrish Raghuvanshi – Kolkata Knight Riders, ₹3 Crore

The Delhi-born batter, who moved to Mumbai to train under top coaches, gained prominence after becoming India’s leading run-scorer in the 2022 U19 World Cup. Angkrish has a natural flair for stroke-making and showcased his adaptability in IPL 2024 with a strike rate of 155.24. KKR’s investment reflects their belief in his potential to anchor and finish games.

Abhinav Manohar – Sunrisers Hyderabad, ₹3.20 Crore

A hard-hitting finisher from Karnataka, Abhinav’s ability to clear the ropes has made him a sought-after T20 asset. His recent Maharaja T20 Trophy exploits, where he smashed 52 sixes in just 10 innings, highlight his power-hitting skills. SRH secured him as a key player for the lower order, betting on his ability to turn games single-handedly.

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Naman Dhir – Mumbai Indians, ₹5.25 Crore

A fearless batter and part-time off-spinner, Naman was instrumental in Punjab’s domestic success in 2023. His aggressive approach at the top of the order and knack for taking crucial wickets caught the attention of Mumbai Indians, who retained him via their RTM card.

Rasikh Dar – Royal Challengers Bangalore, ₹6 Crore

Hailing from Jammu and Kashmir, Rasikh’s resurgence as a death-overs specialist has been noteworthy. Known for his deceptive slower deliveries and knuckleballs, he offers RCB a much-needed edge in closing out tight games.