Unfortunate IPL Players Who Shockingly Went Unsold In SA20 2025-26 Auction

Debashis Sarangi

Moeen Ali has represented CSK in IPL [Source: @imDhoni_fc/X]Moeen Ali has represented CSK in IPL [Source: @imDhoni_fc/X]

The highly anticipated auction for the upcoming SA20 season concluded on Tuesday. While Dewald Brevis and Aiden Markram bagged lucrative contracts, several renowned names failed to attract any bidder in the event. 

Interestingly, there were several active IPL players who failed to crack a deal for the South African tournament's next season. As the auction has ended, here's a look at the household IPL names who went unsold. 

Mustafizur Rahman - DC

Mustafizur Rahman has been a regular face in the Indian Premier League, having represented multiple teams, including Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings and Sunrisers Hyderabad. Currently, he is associated with the Delhi Capitals, but the franchise can't retain him as he was signed as a replacement player after the tournament's resumption following the brief interruption during the India-Pakistan border conflict. 

Why Mustafizur Rahman went unsold in SA20 auction?

  • Despite being an effective bowler in the middle and death overs, Mustafizur Rahman has faced significant challenges while attempting to feature in overseas T20 leagues due to the Bangladesh Cricket Board's knack for disapproving NOCs to its key players. Recently, the fast bowler was reported to be doubtful for the ILT20, with the tournament expected to clash with the Bangladesh Premier League. 
  • So, although he registered for the SA20 auction, there were doubts over his availability for the competition which will kick off right after the BPL. Considering his fitness and importance for the national side, chances are high that the BCB will ask him to rest instead of pushing his body to the limit by playing the South African league. So, his availability could be the primary reason behind Mustafizur going unsold in the auction. 

Moeen Ali - KKR

Just like Mustafizur, Moeen Ali has been one of the household overseas names in the history of the Indian Premier League. The seasoned campaigner has represented Chennai Super Kings in the past and is currently associated with Kolkata Knight Riders.  

Why Moeen Ali went unsold in SA20 auction?

  • Moeen Ali was a valuable asset in T20 cricket at his prime. Besides playing impactful cameos as a floater, Moeen could bamboozle opponents with his guile and variations. 
  • However, his batting prowess has dipped significantly with time. Moeen was one of the worst performers for KKR in the IPL 2025, scoring only five runs in two outings at a horrible average of 2.50. 
  • Also, given that he's 38, it's natural from the franchises' perspective not to consider him as a future prospect. Therefore, his age and lean patch could be the reasons behind Moeen going unsold in the SA20 auction. 

Rahmanullah Gurbaz - KKR

Rahmanullah Gurbaz is a swashbuckling batter from Afghanistan and is known for his clean-striking abilities. Besides opening the batting and capitalising on the field restrictions, Gurbaz also keeps wickets, making him a two-in-one package in the shortest format. Currently, Rahmanullah Gurbaz is in the KKR setup and represented them in the IPL 2025. 

Why Rahmanullah Gurbaz went unsold in SA20 auction?

  • Although Rahmanullah Gurbaz has showcased his big-hitting skills in the past, he hasn't had a great time with the bat of late. Like Moeen, Gurbaz disappointed KKR with his torrid run, scoring only 74 runs in five innings at an average of 18.50. 
  • He could average just over 27 while striking at a modest rate of 127.52 in the Global Super League. The right-hander had a forgettable time in the UAE T20I Tri-Series too, finishing the tournament with 98 runs in five innings. 
  • Therefore, although he has age on his side, Gurbaz's recent performances could be the reason why he couldn't attract any franchise in the SA20.