The IPL 2025 season is kissing the midway point of the season and we have already witnessed some amazing action.
Across the country, the topsy-turvy IPL gatha continues to build new dynamics as matches continue to flow.
In recent days, Mumbai Indians have gained pace while the Sunrisers Hyderabad and Chennai Super Kings are languishing at the bottom.
Kolkata Knight Riders, the defending champions, are also in a spot of bother – while Delhi Capitals, Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru have continued their Midas touch so far.
Apart from the teams, the players have also been having contrasting seasons. New stars have emerged, while some of the big names have faltered dismally. Amid this, the IPL 2025 season has also not been kind for a few big-money signings. The teams splashed huge stacks of money for the names, and some of them have failed to live up to the investments.
Venkatesh Iyer (Kolkata Knight Riders)
Venkatesh Iyer, one of KKR’s premium assets bought for ₹23.75 crore, has amassed 114 runs in six matches at an average of 28.5 and a strike rate of 154.05. His standout performance came in a blistering 29-ball 60 against Sunrisers Hyderabad, packed with seven fours and three sixes. However, consistency has been an issue in other matches for Iyer, who has failed to deliver for Kolkata Knight Riders serially in crunch situations.
Trent Boult (Mumbai Indians)
Trent Boult, re-signed by Mumbai Indians for ₹12.5 crore, has proven to be a potent force with the new ball. His ability to deliver early breakthroughs was on full display when he opened with a wicket-maiden over against Sunrisers Hyderabad. But the Kiwi has failed to make his mark so far. After seven matches, Boult only has 6 wickets to his name and has been extremely expensive in most of the matches.
T Natarajan (Delhi Capitals)
T Natarajan’s stint at Delhi Capitals hasn’t gone according to plan. Purchased for ₹10.75 crore, the left-arm seamer has struggled with fitness following a shoulder injury, resulting in limited game time. The left arm pacer is yet to play a match this season and even if he gets fit, the chances are slim for him.
Marcus Stoinis (Punjab Kings)
Marcus Stoinis, signed for ₹11 crore by Punjab Kings, has endured a quiet season so far. With the bat, he has managed only 59 runs in five matches. His most explosive knock came against Sunrisers Hyderabad, smashing 34 off just 11 balls, including four consecutive sixes in the final over. However, he has failed to make an impact with the ball, going wicketless across his appearances, raising questions about his dual-role effectiveness.
Rishabh Pant (Lucknow Super Giants)
Rishabh Pant, the most expensive signing in IPL history at ₹27 crore, has had a tough campaign. In seven games, he has scored 103 runs at an average of 17.17 and a strike rate just above 100. His only significant contribution came in the form of a 63-run knock against Chennai Super Kings, which also came at a losing cause. Tactical decisions under his captaincy, including questionable bowling rotations, have come under the scanner. With the spotlight firmly on him, the LSG captain will need a dramatic turnaround to justify his price tag and leadership.