With everything done and dusted in the IPL 2025 mega auction, teams wrapped up their purchases with smiles on their faces, as many got what they wanted. Teams like KKR and RCB, who were looking for wicketkeeper-batters, filled those gaps, and even the RCB franchise, which aimed to strengthen their bowling, seems to have sorted that issue. In all this, many cricket fans from Jammu and Kashmir were glued to their televisions, eagerly waiting to see their own superstars names on the TV. A total of 14 Jammu & Kashmir players were shortlisted for the IPL mega auction, and among these 14 names, 4 made their mark, which is extremely big for the state, as they are sending some amazing talent into the IPL. But who are these Jammu & Kashmir players who are gearing up to play in the upcoming IPL 2025? Check out all the big emerging names and see what we can expect from them in this cash-rich league.
Umran Malik
The first and foremost name is Umran Malik, known as the Jammu Express. This superstar is set to play for KKR this time. Always ready to deliver top pace, he is known for consistently clocking 150 km/h. Although he struggled with injuries in previous editions, but there is no question about his bowling abilities. After serving Hyderabad in the last few seasons, the Jammu Express will now begin his journey with Kolkata.
Abdul Samad
A boy from Kalakote, Jammu, made it big in the IPL 2025 mega auction as he became the blue-eyed boy, grabbing the attention of many teams. Ultimately, it was the Lucknow Super Giants who secured this star batting all-rounder for a whopping Rs 4.2 crore. Known for his ability to play big shots, he had been serving Sunrisers Hyderabad for the past three seasons and delivered impressive performances.
In his debut season, the middle-order batter played 12 games and scored 111 runs. The following season, coming down the order, he scored another 111 runs in 11 games at a strike rate of 128. However, the big punch came in IPL 2024, where he played a key role in the team’s success, especially with the bat. He scored 182 runs with a remarkable strike rate of 170.
With a total of 50 matches under his belt, this experienced IPL player has 577 runs and will be eager to add more to his tally in the upcoming season.
Rasikh Salam
Another name, not new to the IPL, is Rasikh Salam. Hailing from Kulgam district, this pacer grabbed significant attention by securing a Rs 6 crore signing. It was Royal Challengers Bengaluru who went for this fast bowler, known for his ability to swing the ball both ways, Rasikh already has IPL experience, having previously been part of Mumbai Indians and KKR. Now, in the RCB camp, he is expected to shine, especially as one of the key bowlers in the team alongside Yash Dayal.
Yudhvir Singh
Last but not least, all-rounder Yudhvir Singh made his way into the RR camp as the emerging player was picked up for Rs 35 lakh by the Rajasthan franchise. Yudhvir, who debuted in the IPL with Lucknow Super Giants in 2023, will look to perform well when he wears the RR jersey. Early in his career, he has joined a team with an impressive fan following and will aim to deliver impactful performances at the iconic stadium.