IPL 2025: Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer, and Shubman Gill Emerge as Key Players to Watch | Cricket Analysis

**IPL 2025: Key Players to Watch – Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer, and Shubman Gill Lead the Pack**

The anticipation for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 has heightened following last year’s mega auction held in Jeddah. As the tournament, commencing on March 22, approaches, cricket aficionados are keen to keep an eye on the standout performers.

Indo-Asian News Service
Updated: March 18, 2025, 04:26 pm IST
Read Time: 6 min

As in every edition of the IPL, certain players invariably become the focus of attention. The IPL is renowned for propelling cricketers into the international spotlight, offering a platform for both new talent and established players seeking a resurgence. The auction for IPL 2025 has added a layer of intrigue, suggesting a captivating season ahead. Here, IANS spotlights the players to watch from each participating team:

**Noor Ahmad – Chennai Super Kings**

Noor Ahmad, the dynamic left-arm wrist-spinner from Afghanistan, emerged as Chennai Super Kings’ most expensive acquisition during last year’s mega auction, thwarting competitive bids from Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans. Having accumulated an impressive 24 wickets over two IPL seasons with the Titans, Noor is anticipated to make a significant impact alongside stalwarts Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, especially if conditions at Chepauk favor spin.

**KL Rahul – Delhi Capitals**

Fresh off a pivotal role in India’s Champions Trophy triumph, KL Rahul enters IPL 2025 with an eye on reclaiming his spot in India’s T20I squad, particularly with a World Cup on home soil next year. A transition from Lucknow Super Giants to Delhi Capitals presents an opportunity for Rahul to rejuvenate his T20 game sans the burden of captaincy, potentially reversing his recent strike rate concerns.

**Shubman Gill – Gujarat Titans**

After a spectacular run in IPL 2023, Gill’s subsequent form dip in 2024 coincided with senior players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli leading India’s T20 World Cup campaign. With both icons now having stepped aside, IPL 2025 is pivotal for Gill to not only prove his T20 credentials but also strengthen his case as a future leader for India.

**Ajinkya Rahane – Kolkata Knight Riders**

Despite speculation surrounding Venkatesh Iyer’s leadership potential, KKR opted for the experienced Ajinkya Rahane as captain for IPL 2025. Rahane’s stellar performance in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy underlines his form and suggests that KKR’s hopes for another title defense may rest heavily on his shoulders.

**Rishabh Pant – Lucknow Super Giants**

Released by Delhi Capitals, Rishabh Pant commanded a record-breaking bid from Lucknow Super Giants, valuing his explosive batting and wicketkeeping prowess highly. Despite being sidelined from recent T20I engagements, Pant’s performances in IPL 2025 will be crucial in asserting his indispensability ahead of a competitive World Cup selection landscape.

**Bevon Jacobs – Mumbai Indians**

Relatively unheralded, Bevon Jacobs caught the eye of Mumbai Indians’ extensive scouting network, bringing a hard-hitting middle-order presence to their ranks. His recent domestic exploits in New Zealand, including standout performances in the Super Smash, suggest he could play a decisive role as a finisher this season.

**Shreyas Iyer – Punjab Kings**

Unusual for an IPL-winning captain to switch alliances the following year, Shreyas Iyer’s move to Punjab Kings was thus noteworthy. Iyer aims to reinforce his leadership capabilities and recapture the form that saw him excel in the Champions Trophy, marking an eminent return to national contention.

**Dhruv Jurel – Rajasthan Royals**

Having risen through IPL ranks since 2023, Dhruv Jurel is now a pivotal asset for Rajasthan Royals. Retained for his match-finishing capabilities, Jurel’s performance in IPL 2025 will be closely scrutinized, particularly as he vies for a significant role in India’s T20 setup.

**Rasikh Salam – Royal Challengers Bengaluru**

With a promising comeback story, fast-bowler Rasikh Salam now embodies RCB’s hopes of IPL glory. After a challenging stint marred by a ban and injury, Salam’s recent form in domestic and emerging international fixtures suggests he could be a vital player to watch.

**Ishan Kishan – Sunrisers Hyderabad**

Having recently reentered competitive cricket post a personal leave, Ishan Kishan is poised to revamp his career with Sunrisers Hyderabad. Expected to adapt to new roles, Kishan’s journey in IPL 2025 will be instrumental in reigniting his association with India’s national team.

For comprehensive updates on IPL 2025, including news, schedules, and results, visit NDTV Sports. Follow us on Facebook or Twitter for continuous sports coverage, or download the NDTV Cricket App available for both Android and iOS devices.