Published By: Sanchari Das

IPL Auction Snubbed Player Shines with Fourth Ton in Vijay Hazare Trophy

Rejected at the IPL auction, this Karnataka player has risen like a phoenix in the Vijay Hazare Trophy

Mayank Agarwal has turned heartbreak into motivation. After going unsold in the IPL 2025 auction, the Karnataka batter is on a mission to prove his worth. His stunning form in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy has silenced critics. On Sunday, Agarwal smashed his fourth century of the tournament against Nagaland. This unbeaten 116 off 119 balls was studded with nine boundaries and four sixes. With five consecutive 50+ scores in List A cricket, Mayank is roaring back into the spotlight, showing why he is far from done.

Consistency amid adversity

Mayank's journey in the Vijay Hazare Trophy has been spectacular. He began with a steady 47 against Mumbai, laying the foundation for a fruitful campaign. A rare blip against Puducherry saw him manage just 18, which only fuelled his determination. Against Punjab, he roared back to form with an unbeaten 139, a knock that secured Karnataka's win and highlighted his ability to thrive under pressure. His next two innings saw centuries against Arunachal Pradesh (100*) and Hyderabad (124), reaffirming his status as a domestic giant.

Unstoppable numbers

Mayank's statistics this season are nothing short of phenomenal. In seven innings, he has amassed 613 runs at an average of 153.25 and a strike rate of 111.66. These numbers include four centuries and a fifty, making him the tournament's leading run-scorer. He has hammered 66 boundaries and 18 sixes, showcasing his ability to dominate pace and spin. Mayank's conversion rate is equally impressive, as he consistently turns starts into big scores, a trait essential for success in competitive cricket.

Leading Karnataka from the front

As Karnataka's captain, Mayank has been instrumental in his team's success. In the match against Nagaland, his unbeaten 116 was pivotal in chasing down 207 with ease. He partnered with KV Aneesh (82*) and ensured a comfortable nine-wicket victory. This performance wasn't just about the runs; it was a statement of intent from a leader determined to set an example. Karnataka's campaign has been bolstered by Mayank's consistent brilliance as a batter and captain, guiding his team to commanding victories.

From IPL snub to domestic hero

Mayank's resurgence in the Vijay Hazare Trophy comes after a surprising IPL 2025 auction snub. Despite his past IPL success, including a prolific run from 2019 to 2023, no franchise raised a paddle for him this time. The snub was a hard pill to swallow for a player who had been a mainstay for Punjab Kings and even captained the side in 2022. Yet, instead of dwelling on the setback, Mayank has used the domestic circuit to remind everyone of his undeniable talent.

A career built on perseverance

Mayank's List A career speaks volumes about his consistency. With over 5,500 runs, 19 centuries, and 44 fifties, he is one of the most prolific run-scorers in India's domestic cricket history. His ability to adapt to different conditions and bowlers has made him a standout player. This Vijay Hazare Trophy campaign adds another glittering chapter to his career, proving that he remains a force to be reckoned with. As he piles on the runs, questions about his exclusion from IPL and national teams grow louder. At 32, he still has plenty to offer as a batter and leader.