IPL 2025 Auction: Three Franchises Set To Battle For 'Hot Property' Umran Malik

Reports suggest that Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) might release their star bowler, Umran Malik, ahead of the IPL 2025 season. The 24-year-old, known for his blistering pace, has been with SRH since his debut in 2021.

The Jammu and Kashmir-born cricketer was retained by SRH for INR 4 crore after replacing T Natarajan during the UAE leg of IPL 2021. He took 22 wickets from 14 matches in the 2022 season but saw a decline in performance afterward. In IPL 2023, he played only eight matches, securing five wickets at an average of 43.40 and an economy rate of 10.85.

The Chennai Super Kings (CSK), five-time IPL champions with a win percentage of 57.74, are known for their success in the tournament's history. Under Ruturaj Gaikwad's leadership, they finished fifth and missed the playoffs. CSK is likely to target Umran Malik in the upcoming auction due to his raw pace, which they can develop into match-winning potential.

Mumbai Indians (MI), another successful franchise with a win percentage of 54.40, had a tough season under Hardik Pandya's captaincy, finishing at the bottom with four wins and ten losses. MI has a tradition of investing in raw talent, and signing Umran Malik could be beneficial. The Wankhede pitch offers good bounce, making it ideal for pacers like Malik to exploit home conditions effectively.

In the subsequent season, Malik featured in just one match but remains highly sought after. Several teams are interested in signing him at the IPL 2025 auction due to his potential impact on their bowling line-ups.

Kolkata Knight Riders

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), with three IPL titles, won their third trophy by defeating Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL 2024 final. KKR's pace attack has been inconsistent recently, and signing Umran Malik could revamp their bowling unit. His inclusion would provide an edge during powerplays and death overs on fast pitches.

The ambitious team will be eager to sign key players in the upcoming auction, with Umran Malik being a prime target for CSK due to his raw talent and potential as a match-winner.

Despite playing only one match last season, Umran Malik remains a hot property in the cricketing world. His sheer pace makes him an attractive option for teams looking to strengthen their bowling attack for IPL 2025.

As SRH considers releasing him, several franchises are keen on acquiring his services to bolster their squads ahead of the next season.