MLC 2025 Breakout Stars Who Could Be In Hot Demand During IPL 2026 Auction

Probuddha Bhattacharjee

Saiteja Mukkamalla and Sanjay Krishnamurthi in MLC 2025 [Source: @usacricket, @SFOUnicorns/x.com]Saiteja Mukkamalla and Sanjay Krishnamurthi in MLC 2025 [Source: @usacricket, @SFOUnicorns/x.com]

The IPL auction is gradually becoming a marketplace for global Cricketing talents and hidden gems. The third edition of Major League Cricket (MLC 2025) is currently going on in the US. Notably, some young talents are doing brilliantly in the tournament. With franchises constantly seeking fresh talent to address specific team weaknesses, three youngsters from MLC 2025 have emerged as potential high demands for auction.

A look at the batting performances of the teams in IPL 2025 reveals some glaring batting issues. From middle-order collapses to powerplay scoring rate troubles, these players can bring exactly what some of the struggling teams from the 2025 season need in their squad for the next edition.

3. Saif Badar (Los Angeles Knight Riders)

Saif Badar for KKR in MLC 2025 [Source: @LA_KnightRiders/x.com]Saif Badar for KKR in MLC 2025 [Source: @LA_KnightRiders/x.com]

Why teams will pay a premium for Saif Badar:

  • Proven pressure performer when stakes are high
  • Strong temperament - doesn't crumble in crises
  • Reliable run accumulator with 122 runs this season so far
  • Effective middle-order stabilizer

Perfect fit for: Teams with middle-order instability, particularly KKR and CSK, who've suffered from batting collapses throughout IPL 2025.

2. Sanjay Krishnamurthi (San Franciscon Unicorns

Why he'll command big money:

  • Explosive strike rate of 149.12 - exactly what IPL teams crave
  • Dynamic batting style - can accelerate from ball one
  • Upper middle-order specialist solving specific team needs
  • Proven ability to take down quality bowling attacks

Perfect fit for: Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings, both plagued by middle-order scoring issues (strike rates of 116.7 and 127.2, respectively). Expect bidding wars between these desperate franchises.

1. Saiteja Mukkamalla

Why he'll attract premium bids:

  • Just 21 years old with massive potential
  • Temperament proved at the international level
  • Technically solid approach perfect for the No.3 role
  • Consistent run scorer
  • Currently rated as USA's best young talent

Perfect fit for: Chennai Super Kings and Sunrisers Hyderabad, as both need a dynamic batter in the upper middle-order. His technical solidity and consistent run-scoring can provide the reliability these two sides desperately lacked, while his young age offers long-term value.

Expected auction values: Krishnamurthi (₹2-4 crores), Mukkamalla (₹1.5-3 crores), Badar (₹1-2.5 crores).