IPL Auction 2025: 350 Players Shortlisted as De Kock Joins List
By Krishna Arya | Network Bharat
IPL Auction 2025: 350 Players Shortlisted as De Kock Joins List : The stage is set for one of the most thrilling cricket spectacles of the year — the IPL Auction 2025. As franchises prepare for season 19 of the world’s biggest T20 league, the officially released shortlist confirms that 350 players will go under the hammer in Abu Dhabi on December 16, all battling for just 77 open slots across 10 teams.
The news that has truly electrified fans is the late inclusion of South Africa’s dynamic wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock. Fresh off his retirement from ODI cricket, De Kock emerges as a surprise entrant at a base price of ₹1 crore, instantly becoming one of the most sought-after names in this year’s auction.
Adding to the star power is Australian batting maestro Steve Smith, who is hoping to revive his IPL journey after last featuring in the tournament back in 2021. Smith enters the auction pool at a base price of ₹2 crore, setting the stage for potential bidding duels among teams seeking experience and stability in their batting middle order.
A Numbers Game That Defines the Madness
The sheer scale of the IPL Auction highlights why it remains cricket’s most dramatic marketplace. This year:
- 1,390 players registered worldwide
- The list was cut down to 1,005 eligible contenders
- Finally, 350 players were shortlisted
- Just 77 roster slots remain vacant across 10 franchises
This huge funnel ensures extreme competition — where dreams of hundreds of young cricketers hinge on a single raised paddle or a last-second bid.
Final Auction Player Breakdown
Here’s how the shortlist shapes up:
- 🇮🇳 Indian Players: 240
- 🌍 Overseas Players: 110
- ✅ Total Shortlisted: 350
- 🏟 Teams participating: 10 franchises
- 🗓 Auction date: December 16, 2025
- 📍 Venue: Abu Dhabi
The robust domestic presence reflects the strength of India’s grassroots cricket ecosystem — while the international mix promises competitive variety, explosive batting options, and specialist bowlers ideal for T20 conditions.
Why IPL Auction 2025 Feels Different
This year’s auction is not just about buying talent — it’s about smart team rebuilding.
🌟 Star Surprise Entrants
The inclusion of De Kock has changed calculations overnight. Teams needing a reliable wicketkeeper who doubles as an opening weapon now have a premium option.
♻ Veteran Comebacks
Steve Smith’s return places leadership experience back on the table, especially for franchises looking to steady young squads under pressure.
🔍 Domestic Talent Boom
Several rising Indian players have caught attention through strong domestic seasons and recent IPL stints, potentially triggering bidding wars that could steal the show.
Every Franchise Under Pressure
With only 77 slots available, franchises face tough calls:
- Should they chase overseas stardom or back uncapped Indian talent?
- Is investing big money in experience safer than betting on youth?
- Which team combination truly offers balance across batting, bowling, and fielding?
These strategic dilemmas ensure that the December 16 auction will not be predictable — but dramatic from the very first bid.
Countdown to Auction Day
As the IPL community counts down, speculation is already flooding social media:
- Will De Kock command a multi-crore payday?
- Can Smith secure a comeback contract?
- Which unknown Indian youngster will become the breakout buy?
One thing is certain — when the gavel falls in Abu Dhabi, new stars will rise, squads will transform, and IPL 2025 will officially begin its march toward another unforgettable season.
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Also Read This :
Latest Cricket NewsIPL 2025 Full Schedule
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Top 10 Biggest IPL Auction Buys
Sources
Official IPL WebsiteBCCI Official Updates
ESPN Cricinfo IPL Coverage
Cricbuzz Live Auction News
ICC International Cricket News
Stay tuned to Network Bharat for real-time updates, inside analysis, and all the biggest IPL auction stories.
