Sai Sudharsan and Priyansh Arya [Source: AP Photos]
As Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 heads into the final stage with four teams locking in their spots for the playoffs, all eyes are not just on the trophy but also on one of the most exciting individual honours: the Emerging Player of the Season award.
This award celebrates the rising stars of Indian cricket, young talents who’ve made a big impact throughout the season and look ready to shine on the international stage. Last year, Nitish Reddy from Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) took home the award for his standout performances, He scored 303 runs in 13 innings.
What Is the Emerging Player Award?
The BCCI presents this award each season to the Indian player who has shown the most promise. To be eligible, the player must:
- Be born after April 1, 1999 (under 26 years old)
- Have played 5 or fewer Test matches and 20 or fewer ODIs
- Have played 25 or fewer IPL matches before the start of the season
- Not have previously won the Emerging Player award
The winner is chosen through a combination of fan votes on the IPL website and selections made by the tournament’s TV commentators.
Who Are The Top five Contenders In 2025?
Priyansh Arya - 46% Votes
Leading the race this year is Priyansh Arya, who has been in explosive form for the Punjab Kings. With 362 runs in 13 innings, he’s consistently punished bowlers and played some thrilling knocks. He currently has nearly 46% of the fan votes, making him the clear front-runner for the award.
Sai Sudharsan - 13%
On the second, it is Gujarat Titans star opener Sai Sudharsan, who has been in phenomenal form in this season. Sudharsan has been churning up runs with great regularity, he has scored 679 runs in 14 innings so far, including one century and five fifties. He currently has nearly 13% of the fan votes.
Aniket Verma - 9%
Making his IPL debut with Sunrisers Hyderabad, Aniket has made a solid impact, scoring 236 runs in 14 matches. Fans have noticed his potential and he’s gaining support in the polls, he currently has 9% votes.
Noor Ahmed - 5%
The Afghan left-arm spinner has been excellent for Chennai Super Kings. He’s taken 24 wickets in 14 matches and even held the Purple Cap at one point. A strong performance, though his team is now out of the tournament. He received 5% votes.
Suyash Sharma - 5%
RCB’s young spinner Suyash Sharma has taken 5 wickets this season. While his numbers aren’t the highest, he’s delivered in key moments and could still be in the running.