As the IPL season hits the midway mark, it’s clear that some pre-auction retention decisions have left fans scratching their heads. Here’s a deep dive into five such choices that have come back to haunt their franchises.
Jos Buttler: The Unjustified Departure
Rajasthan Royals (RR) shocked everyone by parting ways with Jos Buttler, a decision that continues to baffle cricket enthusiasts. Buttler, now with Gujarat Titans (GT), has been a revelation this season, delivering one masterclass after another. His latest heroics against table-toppers Delhi showcased why he’s one of the best white-ball players in the game. Sai Sudharsan summed it up perfectly: “He’s always in control, even in the toughest situations.” For RR, letting go of Buttler has proven to be a costly misstep.
Mitchell Starc: Kolkata’s Missed Maneuver
Mitchell Starc was instrumental in Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) playoff success last season, and his departure raised eyebrows. Starc, now with Delhi Capitals, has already won three games for his new team, including a breathtaking Super Over. Meanwhile, his replacement, Spencer Johnson, has failed to make an impact for KKR. This decision has undoubtedly hampered Kolkata’s campaign this year.
Tim David: Mumbai’s Loss, RCB’s Gain
Mumbai Indians’ decision to release Tim David in favor of Will Jacks was met with skepticism. David, now with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), has been their standout performer, consistently finishing innings with flair. His ability to dominate spin and unleash raw power has made him a nightmare for bowlers. In the last game, he single-handedly rescued RCB from embarrassment, proving Mumbai’s decision wrong.
Yuzvendra Chahal: Punjab’s Rising Star
When Rajasthan Royals let go of Yuzvendra Chahal, it raised eyebrows across the cricketing world. While RR might have felt justified early on, Chahal has steadily become Punjab Kings’ (PBKS) go-to weapon. His spellbinding performance against KKR, where he almost single-handedly defended a modest total of 111, was a testament to his growing influence. As the tournament progresses, Chahal could be the deciding factor for Punjab.
Shreyas Iyer: Punjab’s Captain Marvel
Shreyas Iyer has emerged as the standout captain of IPL 2025, blending astute decision-making with exceptional batting. His leadership was on full display during Punjab’s defense of a low total against KKR, and his strike-rate of 194.69 is second only to Nicholas Pooran among the top run-scorers. Iyer’s form has been pivotal in Punjab’s strong pursuit of their third-ever playoff berth.
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