The IPL 2025 Mega Auction, held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, saw several promising young cricketers make headlines, with the youngest players showcasing immense potential. Here’s a look at the five youngest players at the auction and who acquired them:
- Vaibhav Suryavanshi (13 years) – Rajasthan Royals
In a historic move, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, just 13 years and 243 days old, became the youngest player ever to be auctioned in IPL history. The Rajasthan Royals secured him for ₹1.1 crore. Suryavanshi, a highly talented cricketer from Bihar, gained attention after becoming the youngest batter to score an international century in a Youth Test match against Australia U-19. His early achievements include a debut in the Ranji Trophy at just 12 years old, further solidifying his potential. - Ayush Mhatre (17 years) – Yet to be sold
Ayush Mhatre, a 17-year-old from Mumbai, impressed many IPL franchises with his performances in domestic cricket, particularly his knock of 176 runs against Maharashtra in the Ranji Trophy. Despite being invited for trials by Chennai Super Kings (CSK) ahead of the auction, Mhatre remained unsold, but his future prospects remain strong due to his young age and domestic cricket form. - Andre Siddharth (18 years) – Unsold
Another young talent, Andre Siddharth, an 18-year-old batter from India, went unsold at the auction. Despite being among the youngest participants, he did not attract bids, though his skills as a batter could lead to future opportunities in upcoming seasons. Siddharth has had a solid domestic career but has yet to break into the IPL. - Kwena Maphaka (18 years) – Unsold
South African pacer Kwena Maphaka, aged 18, also failed to secure a contract during the IPL 2025 Mega Auction. Maphaka, a promising talent with previous IPL experience as a player for Mumbai Indians, could see future opportunities as teams continue scouting young bowlers with potential. - Allah Ghazanfar (18 years) – Mumbai Indians
The 18-year-old Afghan spinner Allah Ghazanfar was bought by Mumbai Indians for ₹4.8 crore, making him one of the significant young acquisitions of the auction. Ghazanfar, known for his mystery spin, rose to prominence in the 2024 U-19 World Cup, where he took eight wickets. He recently made his ODI debut for Afghanistan and is seen as a rising star in the international circuit.
These young talents represent the future of cricket, with some already making waves in domestic and international competitions, while others await their breakthrough in future seasons.
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