The first-ever player auction of ILT20 on 1 October 2025 dominated headlines as the International League T20 held its first-ever player auction, which arrived with high-profile buys and expensive bids. As franchises looked to the 2026 edition, some of the best players secured new homes, while some icons of global cricket went without a contract.
Biggest Buys at ILT20 Auction 2025
1. Andre Fletcher – The Spiceman Scores Big
West Indies big-hitting batsman Andre Fletcher, popularly referred to as The Spiceman, was among the newsworthy buys at the ILT20 Auction.
Franchise: MI Emirates
Price Tag: $260,000
Why it matters: Fletcher’s aggressive batting, particularly during the power play, makes him a top pick. MI Emirates, one of the Mumbai Indians’ global franchise family members, are looking to retain their 2024 title, and Fletcher’s experience might prove vital.
2. Jordan Thompson – A Star in the Making Receives His Chance
English all-rounder Jordan Thompson was another top buy who made headlines during the auction.
Franchise: MI Emirates
Price Tag: $48,000
Why it matters: Although yet to debut internationally, Thompson has been a reliable performer for domestic leagues, among them the PSL. His big-hitting talent and all-round prowess are an asset for MI Emirates’ line-up.
Surprising Unsold Players at the ILT20 Auction
1. Ravichandran Ashwin – No Takers for the Indian Veteran
Though he served in Sydney Thunder in the BBL recently and had a legend’s career, Ravichandran Ashwin remained unfollowed at the ILT20 Auction.
Base Price: $120,000
Reason: The franchises didn’t want to spend that top dollar on the off-spinner, perhaps because he hasn’t featured much in recent fast-paced T20 environments.
2. James Anderson – England Legend Overlooked Again
England’s great pacer James Anderson, who has indicated the end of his career, too was left unsold.
After being rejected in the SA20 Auction, he met the same fate at ILT20.
At 43 years of age, Anderson’s T20 charm seems to be running out, with franchises choosing young, energetic bowling talents.
3. Shakib Al Hasan – Bangladesh Star Ignored
Bangladesh’s former captain Shakib Al Hasan did not get even a single bid.
Even though he is capable of match-winning performances, his injury-marred recent past and perceived lack of commitment could have had an impact on franchise decisions.
4. Temba Bavuma – Another Misfortune for the South African Skipper
South Africa Test and ODI captain Temba Bavuma too did not find a buyer, extending a poor run after going unsold at the SA20 Auction last month.
Even with his global leadership qualifications, Bavuma appears to be finding it difficult to gain popularity in the T20 franchise circuit.
ILT20 Auction 2025: Top Highlights
MI Emirates took the lead in the interest of name international signings, with purchases of Andre Fletcher and Jordan Thompson.
There were certainly more experienced overseas superstars out there, but the lines of emergent dalliance with younger, more explosive players was clear.
The ILT20 Auction 2025 marks the start of a new evolution of the league, bringing in freshness and accountability to the player recruitment process.
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