IPL 2025: 5 RR costly flops who might not find a buyer next season

Despite having a talented squad and high aspirations going into the 2025 Indian Premier League, the Rajasthan Royals' campaign fell short of expectations. A dismal finish and early elimination from the playoff race resulted from inconsistency that crept in over the second half of the competition, despite a good start. Since then, concerns about return on investment, balance, and team selection have surfaced.

Despite being expected to play important roles, a number of expensive players were unable to live up to their high prices. Their future is in danger because of their poor performances, lack of influence, or restricted chances. Some of these pricey names might find it difficult to draw any buyers to the auction as teams reevaluate their plans for the 2026 Indian Premier League.

Here are the 5 RR costly flops who might not find a buyer next season:

1. Shimron Hetmyer

After being retained by RR for a substantial ₹11 Cr, Shimron Hetmyer only scored 239 runs in 10 innings, averaging about 21.72 with a strike rate of 145, including a single fifty, and was unreliable when things got tight. Despite occasional bursts of power hitting, including a memorable cameo of 52 runs, he was dismissed for single-figure scores in more than half of his appearances and was unable to regularly make game-changing contributions.

Although high-priced acquisitions are supposed to perform reliably, Hetmyer's lack of consistent influence and inability to step up in crucial games hurt his reputation. His auction price and unpredictability may deter buyers next season, as there are several less expensive power hitters available, and franchise budgets are getting tighter.

2. Akash Madhwal

With an economy of more than 11 runs per over and top stats of just 3/29, Akash Madhwal, who was pitched as a bargain seamer at 1.2 crore, took just 4 wickets in 4 games. Despite his stellar 5/5 haul in previous seasons, he had a lackluster IPL 2025 return, leaking runs without a solid swing or death-over control.

Here, underachievement is costly because his value was already minimal. Teams may now value consistency above sporadic genius because they question his capacity to perform well under duress. His base price could remain unsold if he doesn't make a significant comeback.

3. Kwena Maphaka

Kwena Maphaka, who was supposed to support the pace attack, struggled to find rhythm in the 2025 IPL. His limited overs and sporadic appearances prevented him from making any lasting impressions or cutting through. He struggled on both seam-friendly and flat pitches, finished the season with just two wickets and an economy of above 10.

Impact is required when depending on foreign pacers, but Maphaka seldom ever disturbed batsmen or provided variations. He might completely disappear from the spotlight when the IPL 2026 shortlist is announced because there are a number of more capable and seasoned international players available.

4. Fazalhaq Farooqi

Fazalhaq Farooqi, an Afghan bowler who came with a lot of expectation, bowled 17 overs in the competition, taking no wickets and giving up more than 12 runs per over. He was not deployed in critical situations, lacked planning seniority, and was unable to replace front-line seamers.

Farooqi is vulnerable because of his silence on the field, as teams frequently avoid underutilized foreign players to free up abroad places. Instead of keeping a costly benchwarmer, teams on a tight budget can choose Asian pacers with recent IPL success.  

5. Tushar Deshpande

Despite playing nine games and taking nine wickets at an economy rate of over 10.62, Tushar Deshpande found it difficult to establish rhythm and match time. His mid-pace and slower cutter skill set were ineffective, particularly during slog overs. He appeared unsuited to a variety of situations and frequently leaked runs.

Franchises may consider Deshpande expendable due to his lack of impact and inconsistent play. Teams may decide not to further invest in his services because there are numerous comparable or more effective domestic pacers available at the base price.

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