The Indian Premier League (IPL) is more than just a cricket tournament—it’s a festival that unites millions, a stage where dreams are realised, and a marketplace where talent is bought and sold for eye-popping sums.
Every year, the IPL auction grabs headlines for its record-breaking bids and the astronomical salaries paid to international superstars and established Indian players. But beneath the glitz and glamour, there’s another story that often goes untold: the story of Indian players who, despite being signed for modest sums, deliver performances that far exceed expectations.
IPL 2025 has been no different, with several homegrown talents emerging as the backbone of their teams, all while being paid a fraction of what their contributions are truly worth.
In this blog post, we shine a spotlight on five such Indian players —featuring Delhi Capitals’ Vipraj Nigam—who have been the unsung heroes of IPL 2025. These players not only outperformed their price tags but also became indispensable assets for their franchises.
Their journeys are a testament to the depth of Indian cricket and a reminder that sometimes, the best value comes from the most unexpected places.
Table of Contents
1. Vipraj Nigam (Delhi Capitals) – The All-Round Sensation at Just Rs 50 Lakhs
Every IPL season brings forth a new hero, and for Delhi Capitals in 2025, that hero was Vipraj Nigam. At just 20 years old, Nigam was signed for a modest Rs 50 lakhs—a sum that, in IPL terms, is almost a bargain basement deal. Yet, what he brought to the field was priceless.
Over the course of 14 matches, Nigam picked up 13 wickets and scored 142 crucial runs, often stepping up when his team needed him the most. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball made him a true all-rounder, and his fearless approach under pressure won him fans across the country.
In a league where unproven overseas players often command multi-crore contracts, Nigam’s performances were a masterclass in value-for-money. It’s clear that Delhi Capitals unearthed a gem, and the cricketing world will be watching to see how much he fetches in the next auction.
2. Ajinkya Rahane (Kolkata Knight Riders) – The Veteran Leader on a Budget
Ajinkya Rahane’s journey in IPL 2025 is a story of experience triumphing over hype. Picked up by Kolkata Knight Riders for just Rs 1.5 crore, Rahane was not the most talked-about signing of the season. However, his calm demeanour and wealth of experience soon made him the backbone of KKR’s batting lineup.
Scoring 390 runs in 13 matches at an average of 35.45, Rahane not only anchored the innings but also led by example, eventually taking over as captain. His performances outshone those of more expensive and younger teammates, proving that class is permanent.
For a player of Rahane’s stature and current form, his salary seems like a steal. KKR’s faith in the veteran paid off handsomely, but the numbers suggest he’s due for a significant raise in the seasons to come.
3. Digvesh Rathi (Lucknow Super Giants) – The Spin Wizard at Rs 30 Lakhs
Every successful IPL campaign needs an unsung hero, and for Lucknow Super Giants, Digvesh Rathi fits the bill perfectly. Making his debut season even more memorable, Rathi emerged as LSG’s leading wicket-taker with 14 wickets in 12 matches.
Despite being overshadowed by the more celebrated Ravi Bishnoi, Rathi’s consistency and ability to deliver under pressure made him a captain’s dream. His performances, especially on spin-friendly tracks, often turned games in LSG’s favor. For a player bought at just Rs 30 lakhs, Rathi’s rise is a classic IPL fairytale—one that deserves a much happier (and richer) ending.
4. Krunal Pandya (Royal Challengers Bengaluru) – The All-Rounder Who Delivered More Than Expected
Krunal Pandya’s move to Royal Challengers Bengaluru for Rs 5.75 crore raised a few eyebrows, but the seasoned all-rounder silenced critics with his all-round brilliance.
With 15 wickets and 105 runs in 12 matches, Krunal became RCB’s go-to man in crunch situations. His ability to break partnerships and provide crucial lower-order runs filled a void RCB had struggled with since Yuzvendra Chahal’s departure.
While Rs 5.75 crore is no small sum, Krunal’s match-winning contributions and leadership on the field suggest he’s worth even more. In a season where RCB needed heroes, Krunal stepped up time and again.
5. Aniket Verma (Sunrisers Hyderabad) – The Finisher at a Fraction of the Cost
Sunrisers Hyderabad’s search for a reliable finisher ended with the emergence of Aniket Verma, a young batter from Madhya Pradesh, signed for just Rs 30 lakhs. Verma’s 236 runs in 14 matches, including a highest score of 74, often came in high-pressure situations where SRH needed quick runs.
His fearless approach and ability to clear the ropes made him a fan favourite and a nightmare for opposition bowlers. In a league where finishers are worth their weight in gold, Verma’s performances were worth much more than his price tag. Expect a bidding war for his services in the next auction.
Why These Stories Matter: The Real Value of Indian Talent in IPL
The IPL auction is a spectacle in itself, with franchises often splurging on international stars and untested prospects. Yet, year after year, it’s the underpaid Indian players who become the heartbeat of their teams.
Their stories are a reminder that talent and determination can outshine price tags. For fans, these players represent hope and inspiration; for franchises, they are the ultimate return on investment.
As IPL 2025 draws to a close, the performances of Vipraj Nigam, Ajinkya Rahane, Digvesh Rathi, Krunal Pandya, and Aniket Verma will be remembered not just for the runs scored or wickets taken, but for the value they brought to their teams. Their journeys underscore the importance of scouting, nurturing, and rewarding homegrown talent.
Final Thoughts: The Road Ahead
With the next IPL auction on the horizon, these underpaid stars are sure to be on every franchise’s radar. Their 2025 performances have set a new benchmark for what’s possible when opportunity meets preparation. As fans, let’s celebrate these unsung heroes and hope that the next season brings them the recognition—and the pay—they truly deserve.
If you’re an IPL enthusiast, keep an eye on these names. The next time the hammer falls at the auction, don’t be surprised if these underdogs become the hottest properties in town.
FAQ:-
What is the lowest price of IPL players in 2025?
The minimum base price for a player in the IPL 2025 auction was ₹30 lakh. Several players were sold at this base price, including Pyla Avinash, Suryansh Shedge, Musheer Khan, and Harnoor Pannu. The youngest player, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, was picked by Rajasthan Royals for ₹1.1 crore.
Which player is highest paid in IPL 2025?
The 2025 IPL auction witnessed a historic moment when Rishabh Pant was sold for 27 crores, making him the most expensive player in IPL history. Here is the list of the most expensive players that are sold in IPL 2025.
