The Indian Premier League (IPL) has long been a launchpad for young cricketers, forging future stars in the cauldron of intense competition. Each season unveils new talent, offering players a chance to stake a claim for the Indian team. As seen with Mayank Yadav and Harshit Rana in 2024, the 2025 IPL could unearth the next batch of players who demand attention from selectors. Here are five promising talents poised to shine in the upcoming season:
1. Abhinav Manohar
Underutilised by Gujarat Titans in 2024, Abhinav Manohar displayed his true capabilities during the Maharaja Trophy T20, amassing 507 runs at an astonishing strike rate of 196.5. Equally adept at finishing innings or holding the middle order, Manohar’s clean hitting and consistency make him a formidable prospect. As franchises look for middle-order anchors and finishers, Manohar’s experience and recent form could make him a game-changer in the IPL 2025.
2. Angkrish Raghuvanshi
A top-order batter from Delhi, Angkrish Raghuvanshi has been on the radar since his stellar performances in the 2022 U-19 World Cup, where he finished as the highest scorer. While his opportunities with KKR have been limited, the 19 years old player has showcased glimpses of his talent, combining textbook strokes with immense power. His ability to anchor innings or accelerate makes him a versatile asset. With a big IPL auction likely to unfold, Angkrish Raghuvanshi could become a cornerstone for a franchise, much like Yashasvi Jaiswal for Rajasthan Royals.
3. Vaibhav Arora
The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) pacer played a crucial role in their title-winning campaign in 2024, complementing Harshit Rana as a powerplay specialist. Vaibhav combines hard-length pace and precise control, attributes rare among Indian fast bowlers. His ability to swing the ball and deliver under pressure was evident during the playoffs, making him a standout performer. If he continues to develop, Vaibhav could emerge as a sought-after pacer for India’s white-ball setup, particularly for his knack for providing breakthroughs in critical moments.
4. Rasikh Salam Dar
The young pacer from Jammu & Kashmir is a raw talent brimming with potential. Despite enduring a challenging season with Delhi Capitals in 2024, Rasikh’s ability to generate pace and pick up wickets stood out. His performance in the Emerging Asia Cup, where he claimed 9 wickets in 4 games, showcased his ability to shine on big stages. Rasikh’s journey mirrors that of several Indian pacers who matured with experience and a strong IPL season in 2025 could catapult him into contention for the national team.
5. Ashutosh Sharma
The all-rounder of Punjab Kings was a bright spot in their otherwise underwhelming campaign. Renowned for his power-hitting down the order, Ashutosh finished the season with an impressive strike rate of 167. His potential as a game-finisher is particularly enticing, given the scarcity of consistent Indian domestic performers in that role. At 26, he is entering the prime of his career and could thrive in a team that provides better batting platforms. If Ashutosh builds on his 2024 performances, he could draw comparisons to the likes of Hardik Pandya and MS Dhoni in the finisher’s role.
Which uncapped player out of these 5 will command the highest price in the IPL auctions according to you?
