Saurabh Netravalkar, a Mumbai-born cricketer now representing the USA, gained attention for his remarkable left-arm pace bowling during the 2024 T20 World Cup. Despite registering for the IPL 2025 mega auction with a base price of ₹30 lakh, the 33-year-old did not make it to the final list of players set to go under the hammer.
IPL Auction and USA Representation
Out of 1,574 players who initially registered for the auction, the BCCI finalized a list of 574 players, which includes 366 Indians and 208 overseas cricketers. Among these, three players from associate nations were shortlisted, two of whom are from the USA: Unmukt Chand, a former India U-19 captain, and pacer Ali Khan. Both have set their base price at ₹30 lakh. Scotland’s all-rounder Brandon McMullen is the third associate player on the list.
Netravalkar was one of 10 USA players who signed up for the auction. However, he did not make the cut, which surprised many, given his strong World Cup performance.
Memorable T20 World Cup Campaign
Netravalkar’s performance in the 2024 T20 World Cup turned heads. He played six matches, taking six wickets with an average of 20.83 and a strike rate of 18.8. His standout moment came against Pakistan during a group stage match in Dallas. In that historic win, he delivered figures of 2-18, dismissing key players Mohammad Rizwan and Iftikhar Ahmed. He also held his nerve in the Super Over, conceding just 13 runs to secure victory for the USA.
A Proven Performer
Over his T20I career, Netravalkar has played 36 matches, claiming 36 wickets with an economy rate of 6.70 and best figures of 5-12. In ODIs, he has an impressive record of 88 wickets in 56 matches at an economy rate of 4.08, with two five-wicket hauls to his name.
A Talent Worth Watching
Although he missed out on the IPL 2025 auction, Netravalkar’s consistent performances and his contribution to the USA team’s progress have made him a player to watch. With his experience and skill, he continues to inspire cricketers from associate nations to dream big.
Also Read: IPL 2025 Mega Auction: Indian Stars Set The Stage
