The much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 auction will take place on November 24 and 25 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Many star cricketers will go under the hammer in the IPL 2025 mega auction. One significant name that will attract IPL franchises is experienced pacer Mohammed Shami. During player retention, Shami was not retained by the Gujarat Titans (GT). The Indian speedster also missed the IPL 2024 edition as he was recovering from his ankle injury, which he got during the ICC ODI World Cup 2023. After missing out on cricketing action for a year, Shami finally made his competitive return and will play for his state team Bengal against Madhya Pradesh in the ongoing Ranji Trophy season. IPL 2025 Mega Auction: Date, Time, Retained Players, Remaining Purse for Each Franchise, Live Streaming Details and All You Need To Know.

Talking about IPL, Shami is one of the most deadly bowlers in the tournament's history. So far, the right-arm speedster bagged 79 wickets in 77 matches at an economy of 8.63 in IPL. With Shami making his competitive return after a year, let's look at the top three IPL franchises that would buy him in the upcoming mega auction.

Punjab Kings (PBKS)

Punjab Kings (PBKS) has the highest purse (INR 110.5 crore) in the IPL 2025 mega auction. Before the mega auction, PBKS retained two players and is looking to build a new team. With a huge purse in their bank, they might go for experienced pacer Shami. In the past, the veteran pacer has played for the Punjab-based franchise. Shami is also familiar with the team's expectations from him. PBKS have struggled with their bowling depth, and with the addition of Shami, the gap could be filled. Shami can also bowl at any stage and can pick wickets, which will help Punjab during the IPL 2025 edition.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)

Mohammed Shami was part of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) franchise earlier in the IPL. However, he was soon released from the squad. If Knight Riders decide not to pick Mitchell Starc, then there is a possibility they can go all out for Mohammed Shami during the IPL 2025 mega auction. Shami has played most of his domestic cricket at Eden Gardens. This might attract the KKR to invest in him. Mohammed Shami All Set For Comeback in Cricket As Star Fast Bowler Gets Named In Bengal Squad For Ranji Trophy 2024-25 Match Against Madhya Pradesh.

Gujarat Titans (GT)

Mohammed Shami played a huge role in helping the Gujarat Titans (GT) lift the IPL 2022 trophy. Shami was their highest wicket-taker (20) in the 2022 edition. However, Gujarat decided to part ways due to Shami's recent injury concerns. Gujarat has one Right-to-Match (RTM) card option available when they enter the IPL 2025 mega auction. GT can only use their RTM for one capped player.

With Shami making his competitive return, Gujarat might use their RTM for him. Shami's playing style has perfectly suited Gujarat in the previous IPL editions. The pacer was seen picking crucial wickets, which helped Gujarat win matches. The IPL 2022 champions will surely aim to bring him back for the upcoming 2025 edition.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Nov 13, 2024 04:22 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).