Veteran Indian bowler Umesh Yadav has shared his disappointment after not being picked in the IPL 2025 mega auction that took place last November. The 36-year-old, who was previously signed by Gujarat Titans for INR 5.80 crore in the 2024 mini-auction, found himself without any bidders despite a commendable IPL career that includes 148 matches across four teams—Kolkata Knight Riders, Royal Challengers Bangalore, Delhi Capitals, and Gujarat Titans.

Looking back on the situation, Umesh admitted he felt let down after being passed over for the 18th season of the IPL.

“Everyone knows I wasn’t chosen for the IPL this year. I’ve been playing for 15 years. It’s really surprising for me to be unsold at IPL 2025. Why would I lie? It’s disappointing. After all this time and nearly 150 IPL matches, not getting picked is shocking,” Umesh told Inside Sport.

In the 2024 season, Umesh played in seven matches for Gujarat Titans, taking eight wickets with an average of 26.25, though his economy rate was on the higher side at 10. His unsold status in the 2025 auction left the experienced bowler feeling a mix of emotions.

“It’s up to the franchises and their strategies, or maybe my name came up late in the auction, and they didn’t have enough budget left. Whatever the reason, it’s frustrating and upsetting. But at the end of the day, I can’t change anyone’s choices,” he added.

I’ll be out if I can’t bowl

Umesh is feeling a bit frustrated after having leg surgery post-IPL 2024. He’s really focused on making a strong comeback and is all about hitting those high speeds again. The Vidarbha cricketer is confident about his fitness, saying, “I had my leg surgery, and as long as I can bowl at 140 kmph, I’ll keep going. The day I can’t bowl anymore, I’ll step away from cricket on my own. No need for anyone to tell me.”

His last outing with Team India was in 2023 during the World Test Championship final against Australia. Umesh has mostly been a Test bowler throughout his career, playing in 57 matches and taking 170 wickets.

He’s also played 75 ODIs, but his last game in that format was back in 2018.

Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!

HOW DID YOU LIKE THIS ARTICLE? CHOOSE YOUR EMOTICON!