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From a 13-year-old prodigy to a powerful left-hander dubbed “the next Dhoni,” here are eight promising newcomers set to make their IPL debuts this season.
Robin Minz (Mumbai Indians)
A motorcycle accident kept him from the IPL last year, but Robin Minz is back, this time with Mumbai Indians who secured him for ₹65 lakh. Known as Jharkhand’s Chris Gayle, Minz possesses explosive bat speed and executes the helicopter shot with ease. The hard-hitting left-handed wicketkeeper-batter has been on MI’s radar since their UK development camps and the DY Patil tournament. Can he become MI’s next big discovery?
Vaibhav Suryavanshi (Rajasthan Royals)
At just 13 years old, Vaibhav Suryavanshi is the youngest Indian ever to earn an IPL contract, signing with Rajasthan Royals for ₹1.1 crore. A left-handed top-order batter, he smashed a 58-ball century against Australia U-19s and even has an unbeaten triple-century in an U-19 tournament. With an incredible early career, he could be one of the biggest breakout stars in IPL history.
Suryansh Shedge (Punjab Kings)
A key player in Mumbai’s Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy triumph, Shedge impressed with a staggering strike rate of 252 while scoring 131 runs. His rapid-fire knocks, including a 12-ball 36 in the quarter-finals, caught the attention of Punjab Kings, who picked him up for ₹30 lakh. A handy seam bowler as well, he could be Punjab’s secret weapon this season.
Ryan Rickelton (Mumbai Indians)
The South African wicketkeeper-batter will likely open for MI, following in the footsteps of Quinton de Kock. Rickelton, a powerful striker, had a standout SA20 season, boasting a 177.41 strike rate in the powerplay and delivering a 63-ball century in the MLC. With MI Cape Town, he played a key role in securing the franchise’s first SA20 title.
Priyansh Arya (Punjab Kings)
Arya gained instant fame after smashing six sixes in an over in the Delhi Premier League, finishing with 120 off 50 balls. Topping the DPL run charts with 608 runs at a strike rate of 199, he continued his impressive form in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Punjab Kings secured him for ₹3.4 crore, expecting him to bring his aggressive batting style to the IPL stage.
Corbin Bosch (Mumbai Indians)
Initially overlooked in the IPL auction, Bosch joined Mumbai Indians as an injury replacement for Lizaad Williams. The South African bowling allrounder had a strong SA20 season, excelling in the middle and death overs with his hard lengths. With Hardik Pandya missing MI’s opener due to an over-rate suspension, Bosch might get an early chance to showcase his skills.
Eshan Malinga (Sunrisers Hyderabad)
Though he shares a last name with Lasith Malinga, Eshan has his own unique bowling style. A death-over specialist, he made his ODI debut for Sri Lanka shortly after SRH acquired him for ₹1.2 crore. Initially discovered in a nationwide fast-bowling contest, he impressed with his ability to swing the new ball and bowl pinpoint yorkers, making him a strong contender in SRH’s lineup.
Vipraj Nigam (Delhi Capitals)
A leg-spinner inspired by Rashid Khan, Nigam grabbed attention in the UPT20 League, taking 20 wickets in 11 innings at a strike rate of 11.15. His performances earned him a call-up to Uttar Pradesh’s senior team, where he contributed both with the ball and bat. Delhi Capitals recognized his talent and secured him at the auction, hoping he can replicate his success on the big stage.
With these rising stars ready to take the field, IPL 2025 promises to introduce the next generation of cricketing sensations. Who will shine the brightest? Let the season begin! 🚀🏏
