IPL 2025: Australian all-rounder Steve Smith eyes IPL return, announces participation in mega auction: Australian cricket star Steve Smith has confirmed his participation in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auction, marking a potential return to one of the world’s most lucrative cricket leagues.
The 35-year-old, who last played in the IPL in 2021, has struggled to find a place in the tournament over the past few seasons, going unsold repeatedly in previous auctions. However, recent performances have rekindled his ambitions, and Smith is set to make a comeback.
Smith’s IPL journey began in 2010 with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Over the years, he represented multiple franchises including Kochi Tuskers Kerala, Pune Warriors India and Rajasthan Royals (RR).
Not only did he perform as a vital batter for the Rajasthan Royals, but he also captained the team during that memorable period. His leadership qualities are demonstrated by the fact that in 2017 he guided Rising Pune Supergiant to the IPL final. Smith has failed to win the prized IPL title despite his achievements.
Smith was selected by the Delhi Capitals for the 2021 campaign after being waived by the Rajasthan Royals. He only scored 152 runs in 8 games during his miserable time with Delhi, though.
Smith was left without a team as a result, and he was not purchased in the IPL auction that followed. In spite of this loss, the seasoned batter is still optimistic.
Smith’s recent form in T20 cricket has boosted his confidence ahead of the upcoming IPL auction. He was the third-highest run-scorer in the Major League Cricket (MLC) tournament, a testament to his enduring skills and adaptability.
His impressive performance in the MLC Final, where he scored 88 runs off 52 balls, caught the attention of cricket fans and could prove to be crucial in attracting bids from IPL franchises.
In an interview with Code Sports, Smith expressed his eagerness to return to the IPL, saying, “I would love to be a part of the IPL once again. I will put my name in the auction.” Having scored 2,485 runs in 103 IPL games, Smith’s experience and class cannot be denied. His inclusion in any IPL team could provide much-needed stability and strength in the middle order.
Smith’s entry into the auction adds another layer of excitement as preparations for the next IPL season gather pace. Whether he is able to secure a team and make a successful comeback remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure: Steve Smith is determined to prove that he still has what it takes to shine on the grand stage of the IPL.
