Kane Williamson‘s illustrious career reached a poignant moment during the Christchurch Test against England, where he dazzled with a remarkable 93 runs. Despite this stellar performance showing his class intact after a long career, the IPL 2025 mega auction saw him go unsold, raising eyebrows and sparking discussions among cricket enthusiasts. The reasons for this surprising outcome can be attributed to three major factors. Let us delve into these concerns to locate why IPL teams didn’t bid for the Kiwi veteran.
3 Reasons why franchises didn’t go for Kane Williamson
Fitness concerns: An ongoing challenge
Williamson’s fitness has been a significant concern for franchises over the past few seasons. His history of injuries, particularly a groin strain sustained during the Test series against Sri Lanka, has kept him sidelined for crucial matches, including the recent series against India. This injury-prone nature raises red flags for teams looking to invest in players who can consistently contribute throughout the tournament. With franchises prioritizing players who can endure the rigors of the IPL season, Williamson’s recurring fitness issues likely influenced their decision to overlook him at the auction.
Also READ: 3 reasons why Shardul Thakur went unsold in the IPL 2025 mega auction
Franchises focusing on fresh talent
The landscape of IPL franchises has evolved, with many teams now emphasizing the importance of nurturing young and dynamic talent. As teams look to build for the future, they are increasingly inclined to invest in emerging players who can provide long-term value. This trend is evident as franchises are keen on developing their squads with fresh faces rather than relying on seasoned players like Williamson, who may not fit into their long-term plans at the age of 34. The focus on youth and potential has left established stars like Williamson at a disadvantage during auctions.
Performance under scrutiny: A slower strike rate
Williamson’s performance in recent IPL editions has also contributed to his unsold status. His batting strike rate has been a point of contention; while he is known for his technique and ability to anchor innings, his slower scoring rate does not align with the aggressive batting approach favoured in T20 cricket. In previous seasons, his performance has been below expectations for Gujarat Titans scoring 27 runs playing in only 2 matches, with limited impactful innings that failed to justify a high auction price. This decline in form and inability to adapt to the fast-paced nature of T20 cricket likely deterred franchises from bidding for him.
Williamson’s absence from the IPL 2025 auction reflects a combination of fitness concerns, changing franchise strategies towards youth development, and his recent performance struggles. While his talent remains undeniable, these factors have led franchises to seek alternatives that align better with their goals for the upcoming season.
