The IPL 2025 auction must have brought mixed emotions in the Khan household on Monday (November 25). Sarfaraz Khan, a seasoned player with notable performances in domestic cricket and past IPL seasons, went unsold.
His absence from the team squads highlighted the tough competition and evolving strategies of franchises, prioritising fresh talent and specific skills.
Sarfaraz, who has been part of the IPL in the past for Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings), Delhi Capitals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
In 2015, Sarfaraz had become the youngest to be picked up by a franchise, when he was snapped up by RCB and spent four seasons there.
During the 2019 IPL Auction, he was picked up by PBKS for Rs 25 lakh and was retained for the 2020 season.
In 2019, he played eight games and made 180 runs. In all, though, he's had modest returns in IPL history with 441 runs from 40 matches at an average of 23.21 including a fifty.
On the other hand, his younger brother, Musheer Khan, was acquired by Punjab Kings for Rs 30 lakh.
Musheer, an all-rounder with a promising future, has been making waves in the domestic circuit, and his inclusion marks a significant step in his professional journey.
The contrasting outcomes for the brothers underscored the unpredictable nature of cricket auctions and the fine margins that determine success.
Recently, Musheer had struck 181 runs for India B against India A in the Duleep Trophy.
