The Indian Premier League (IPL) is known for showcasing top-tier talent, but every season, a few underrated players emerge as match-winners. IPL 2025 will be no different, with several lesser-known cricketers having the potential to shine on the big stage. Teams with a strong scouting system often identify hidden gems who can change the game, making them valuable additions in fantasy cricket leagues and betting platforms. Let’s dive into the list of underrated players who could make a significant impact in IPL 2025.
Why Underrated Players Matter in IPL?
While big-name stars grab the headlines, underrated players often play pivotal roles. They provide balance, step up in crucial moments, and sometimes even outshine their more famous teammates. Teams like Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad have a history of relying on emerging talents who later become IPL superstars.
Past Examples of Underrated Players Making a Difference
- Rahul Tewatia (IPL 2020) – Played a match-winning knock against Punjab Kings
- Venkatesh Iyer (IPL 2021) – Became KKR’s opening sensation
- Ruturaj Gaikwad (IPL 2021) – Won the Orange Cap after an underrated start
Selection Criteria for Underrated Players
For this list, we considered:
- Performance in domestic and international cricket
- Ability to perform under pressure
- Versatility and adaptability in different match situations
- Impact in past IPL matches despite not being a high-profile player
Top Underrated Players Who Could Shine in IPL 2025
Batsmen
1. Rajat Patidar
- Excellent middle-order batsman
- Played key innings for RCB in past seasons
- Could be a great fantasy cricket pick for IPL 2025
2. Tilak Varma
- Mumbai Indians’ young star
- Versatile batsman with great temperament
- A strong contender for the IPL 2025 emerging player award
Bowlers
3. Mukesh Choudhary
- Left-arm pacer known for his swing bowling
- Played for CSK and made an impact in powerplays
- Could be an effective powerplay bowler for any IPL 2025 team
4. Kartik Tyagi
- Express pace bowler with death-over skills
- Previously stunned batters with match-winning performances
- Likely to be one of the best young fast bowlers in IPL 2025
All-rounders
5. Abhishek Sharma
- Hard-hitting batsman and useful left-arm spinner
- Can be an X-factor for his team
- A perfect budget buy for fantasy cricket players in IPL 2025
6. Shahbaz Ahmed
- Effective left-arm spinner and lower-order batsman
- Provides depth in both batting and bowling
- A great value pick in the IPL 2025 auction
Wicketkeepers
7. Jitesh Sharma
- Explosive wicketkeeper-batsman
- Can be a game-changer in the middle order
- One of the best lesser-known IPL 2025 players to watch
X-Factors That Make These Players Special
Each of these players brings something unique:
- Rajat Patidar’s fearless stroke play
- Kartik Tyagi’s ability to bowl yorkers under pressure
- Abhishek Sharma’s versatility in multiple roles
- Jitesh Sharma’s explosive batting as a wicketkeeper
How Fantasy Cricket Enthusiasts Can Benefit?
- These players are often available at lower credit values in fantasy leagues
- They provide a great balance of performance and budget-friendly picks
- Keeping an eye on such hidden gems can help fantasy users score big in IPL 2025
Impact on IPL 2025 Team Strategies
- Teams will need to decide how to integrate these players into their playing XI
- Their ability to perform under pressure will determine their impact
- IPL betting platforms may adjust odds based on their performances
Challenges These Players Might Face
- Competition for spots in the playing XI
- Adapting to different pitch conditions across India
- Handling the pressure of high-stakes IPL matches
Comparison with Previous IPL Underrated Stars
- Players like Devdutt Padikkal, Harshal Patel, and Rahul Tripathi were once underrated but later proved their worth
- Teams that backed young players in the past were rewarded with breakout performances
- The 2025 season could see another unknown player rise to stardom
Conclusion
While IPL 2025 will see big names in action, these underrated players could be the hidden gems that decide crucial matches. Keep an eye on them—they might just be the next superstars! Fantasy cricket users should consider picking these players, and teams should strategize their selection wisely to maximize their impact.
FAQs
Q1. Who is the most underrated player in IPL history?
Ans. Many players have surprised fans, but Ruturaj Gaikwad’s rise from an unknown player to an Orange Cap winner stands out.
Q2. Which team relies the most on underrated players?
Ans. Teams like Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad have a history of backing underrated talent.
Q3. Can underrated players outperform star players?
Ans. Absolutely! Many unknown players have outperformed international stars on multiple occasions.
Q4. How do teams identify underrated talent?
Ans. Scouts analyze domestic performances, net sessions, and international potential before picking players.
Q5. What makes a player underrated in the IPL?
Ans. A player who performs consistently but doesn’t get much media attention or a high auction price.