The Indian Premier League is in its 19th season since its inception in 2008 and has featured thousands of cricketers throughout the tournament’s history. However, the careers of even the best cricketers come to an end.

The IPL has been built as a large platform for national players as well as overseas players as many players have regained their place in the national team considering their performance in the IPL.

However, the IPL is a high-stakes tournament that requires more than just a legacy. Even the best players love it David WarnerSteve Smith, Kane Williamsonand Suresh Raina failed to sell in the IPL auction due to certain factors, format being the primary one.

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Here is the list of famous cricketers who may not be sold in the IPL mini-auction:

5. Steve Smith

Former Australia captain Steve Smith went unsold twice at the IPL auction in the last two auctions. Smith made his IPL debut in 2012 and has played in the IPL for 9 seasons. He primarily plays for Rajasthan Royals and has also represented Pune Warriors India and Rising Pune Supergiants over the years.

Steve Smith last played in the IPL in 2021 when he was bought by Delhi Capitals for Rs 220 crore but had a poor season. In 103 career games, Smith accumulated 2,485 points, a century-old record.

Although Smith has performed well and the numbers are in his favor, he is unlikely to be a part of the team as his age is a concern for the team teamand he also lacks form in the competition system. While he led the Washington Liberty to a dominant victory in the MLC in 2024 and also scored hundreds of goals for the Sydney Sixers, those don’t quite define the current form.

4. Josh Inglis

Another Australian cricketer on this list. However, unlike Steven Smith, Inglis is one of Australia’s most in-form and dangerous T20I cricketers in recent years. He played for Kings XI Punjab last season and scored 278 runs in that season. He earned a reputation for his fearless stroke play style and ability to change the course of a game.

However, before the mini-auction, Inglis was valued at Rs 2 crore and was subsequently informed that he would only be able to play in 25% of the IPL season; that is, he would not play more than 4 games this season. His absence for most of the season led to his dismissal from PBKS and may have been the core reason why he was not sold.

3. Devin Conway

The former Chennai Super Kings opener has been a stalwart for the Super Kings for many seasons but has been greatly affected by injuries and has been unavailable at crucial moments. He has been released ahead of the mini-auction as CSK lead the way in young players.

In recent times, however, Conway has suffered a complete breakdown. His lack of form is evident in the shortest format of the game, especially in the IPL. Therefore, Conway may also fail to sell at auction.

2. Jack Fraser McGurk

The Australian lad quickly gained a reputation after breaking into the IPL in 2024 and achieved the status of an opening star. McGurk was selected for the next season as well after batting fearlessly with a strike rate of over 250 in his first season with Delhi Capitals.

However, he was unable to keep up with the high standards set for batsmen. McGurk failed to deliver on his promise with the bat, and as a result he was bitterly disappointed with the hefty sum he was paid. Given his inconsistency, he will likely be unsold this season.

1. Wanindu Hasalanga

after steve smith Devon Conwayhe is the most promising performer in this list of Indian Premier League. Vanindhu Hasaranga did not have the best season for Rajasthan Royals.

Although Hasaranga performed well in international cricket, he failed to connect the dots in the IPL. Had Hasaranga not been hampered by injuries, his form might not have been a major issue.

Also read: IPL 2026 Auction: Star Players Teams May Deliberately Ignore