Published By: Sanchari Das

IPL Auction 2025: Top ICC All-Rounders Shine as Franchises Lock in Multi-Role Masters

The IPL 2025 mega auction in Jeddah saw ICC's top-ranked T20I all-rounders in high demand as franchises fought fiercely to secure these multi-dimensional game-changers

The IPL 2025 mega auction in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, lived up to its billing as a spectacle. Over two intense days, franchises battled it out to secure the best talent, with all-rounders commanding significant attention. These players, who contribute with both bat and ball, are invaluable in the T20 format. Teams sought those capable of turning games single-handedly, especially those ranked among the ICC's top T20I all-rounders.  Let's look at how they performed at the auction.

Hardik Pandya

Hardik Pandya, the No. 1 ICC T20I all-rounder with 244 points, remains Mumbai Indians' cornerstone. Retained for ₹16.35 crore, his leadership and all-round prowess are key to their plans. Despite a quiet 2024 IPL season with limited runs and wickets, Pandya's stellar international form boosted his stock. His recent series-winning performances against South Africa reaffirmed his dominance, contributing heavily with both bat and ball. MI envisions him as the captain who will steer them back to glory. His all-around brilliance and proven experience in high-pressure situations make him indispensable to the franchise.

Liam Livingstone

Ranked second in the ICC T20I all-rounder rankings, Nepal's Dipendra Singh Airee couldn't find a team in this year's IPL. Although England's Liam Livingstone, ranked third with 239 points, continues to command attention. Snapped up by Royal Challengers Bangalore for ₹8.75 crore, Livingstone's ability to shine under pressure made him a top target. A standout performance against Australia, where he scored 87 runs off 47 balls and took 2 wickets, highlights his dual-threat capabilities. With over 6,000 T20 runs and 126 wickets, he is one of the most dangerous all-rounders globally. His previous IPL stint with Punjab Kings saw limited success, but RCB's belief in his explosive hitting and versatile spin-bowling promises a thrilling 2025 season.

Marcus Stoinis

Marcus Stoinis ranked fourth with 209 points and made a big splash at the auction. Punjab Kings secured the Australian all-rounder for ₹11 crore, valuing his ability to deliver in crunch moments. Released by Lucknow Super Giants despite a strong 2024 season with 388 runs at a strike rate of 147.53, Stoinis remains a match-winner. Known for his explosive batting and crucial overs, he scored an unbeaten 61 off 27 against Pakistan, showcasing his form. His experience in high-pressure games and role flexibility make him a valuable addition to Punjab's lineup.

Wanindu Hasaranga

Wanindu Hasaranga, ranked fifth with 209 points, continues to shine as one of T20 cricket's finest bowlers. Rajasthan Royals won a bidding battle with Mumbai Indians to acquire the Sri Lankan leg-spinner for ₹5.25 crore. Hasaranga's record is enviable—287 T20 wickets and over 2,300 runs, including nine fifties. In the IPL, he has claimed 35 wickets in 26 matches, with a best of 5/18. His ability to choke runs and take key scalps makes him a prized asset. With Rajasthan banking on his experience and skill, Hasaranga promises to be a game-changer in IPL 2025.

Romario Shepherd

Not all top-ranked all-rounders enjoyed success at the auction. Afghanistan's Mohammad Nabi, ranked sixth, and Zimbabwe's Sikandar Raza, ranked seventh, went unsold despite their base prices of ₹1.5 crore.  RCB picked up eighth-ranked Romario Shepherd for ₹1.5 crore. Known for his explosive lower-order hitting and bowling in death overs, Shepherd adds depth to the team. While his 2024 stint with MI was underwhelming, his potential as a power-hitter with a strike rate of 271.40 is undeniable. Shepherd's ability to deliver in clutch moments makes him an intriguing prospect for the coming season.