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The IPL 2025 auction has a late entrant who’s making waves—Saurabh Netravalkar, the USA-based Indian pacer, has been added to the list at the last minute. The original auction list of 574 players now stands at 577, with Netravalkar, Jofra Archer, and Hardik Tamore joining the fray.
Netravalkar’s Surprise Addition to the Auction
The announcement of Netravalkar’s inclusion took many by surprise. Despite being one of the 10 USA players who expressed interest in the IPL, his name was initially missing from the auction list. Players like Unmukt Chand and Ali Khan had already made the cut, but Netravalkar was overlooked—until now.
His performances in the T20 World Cup 2024 likely played a crucial role in this development. Netravalkar showcased his class, scalping six wickets in six matches, including a brilliant performance against Pakistan. In that match, he dismissed star batters Mohammad Rizwan and Iftikhar Ahmed and delivered a spectacular Super Over, conceding just 13 runs to help the USA secure a historic victory.
From Mumbai to the USA: A Dream Journey
Saurabh Netravalkar’s story is a testament to perseverance. A product of Mumbai’s cricketing ecosystem, he represented India U-19 before moving to the USA to pursue a career in tech alongside cricket. With a job at Oracle and a flourishing cricket career, Netravalkar has become a mainstay of the USA team.
His stats speak volumes:
- 36 wickets in 36 T20Is
- 88 wickets in 56 ODIs
A reliable left-arm pacer, Netravalkar has built a reputation for delivering under pressure, making him a valuable asset for any IPL team.
A Potential Bargain Buy
With his addition to the IPL auction, Netravalkar could be a wildcard pick for teams seeking a dependable left-arm pacer. His experience on international stages and his ability to handle high-pressure situations make him an exciting prospect.
Fans and franchises alike will be eager to see if he lands a coveted IPL contract on auction day, potentially marking the next big chapter in his incredible cricketing journey.
