IPL 2025 Flop XI: High Expectations, Low Returns

The IPL 2025 season ended with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) lifting their first-ever trophy, marking a historic moment after 18 years of waiting. While many players impressed with stellar performances, some high-profile players failed to live up to expectations. These players, who were expected to deliver big performances, didn’t quite deliver on their potential, leaving fans and teams frustrated. Here’s a look at the Flop XI of IPL 2025, featuring several players who struggled despite big price tags and high hopes.

Rachin Ravindra – A Disappointing IPL for CSK’s New Star

New Zealand’s rising star Rachin Ravindra was picked by Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for a hefty Rs 4 crore, with hopes that he would shine as the team’s opening batter. However, he could only manage a meager 191 runs from 8 matches, falling well short of the expectations placed on him. His performance was underwhelming, considering his price tag, and CSK fans will be hoping for better from him next season.

Ishan Kishan – A Strong Start, But Disappointing Finish

Ishan Kishan started IPL 2025 with a bang, scoring a brilliant century for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). However, after that, his form completely dropped off. The explosive opener ended up with only 196 runs for the season, failing to provide consistency when it mattered most for SRH. His inability to capitalize on his initial success led to disappointment for his team.

Rishabh Pant (c) – A Record-Breaking Price, But Underwhelming Performance

Rishabh Pant became the highest-paid player in IPL history when Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) bought him for a staggering Rs 27 crore. However, the wicketkeeper-batter failed to deliver. Pant scored only 269 runs from 13 matches, with most of his innings being forgettable, including numerous single-digit scores. For a player of his caliber, this was a performance far below expectations, leaving LSG fans frustrated.

Venkatesh Iyer – A Price Tag That Didn’t Match the Performance

Venkatesh Iyer was bought by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for a massive Rs 23.75 crore, making him one of the most expensive players of the season. Unfortunately, his performance didn’t match the price tag. Iyer could only manage 142 runs in the tournament and was even dropped for a few matches toward the end. His inability to perform consistently hurt KKR’s chances significantly.

Glenn Maxwell – A Disastrous Season for the Punjab Kings Star

Glenn Maxwell was expected to play a pivotal role in Punjab Kings’ 2025 IPL campaign, but he was in terrible form. In 6 games, Maxwell scored just 48 runs and picked up only 4 wickets. His poor performance was a major concern for Punjab Kings, even as the team reached the final. For a player of Maxwell’s reputation, this was a shocking drop in form.

Nitish Kumar Reddy – A Major Disappointment for SRH

SRH retained Nitish Kumar Reddy after his impressive Emerging Player award in IPL 2024, but 2025 proved to be a disappointing season for the young player. Reddy could only manage 182 runs and picked up 2 wickets across the season. His inability to take his game to the next level left SRH struggling to find the balance they needed.

MS Dhoni (wk) – A Forgettable IPL for the CSK Legend

MS Dhoni’s IPL 2025 campaign was arguably his most forgettable one yet. The CSK legend could only muster 196 runs from 14 matches, struggling at a strike rate of just 135. While Dhoni’s leadership continued to inspire CSK, his individual performances left a lot to be desired. Fans will hope for a better show from the captain in future seasons.

Rashid Khan – A Nightmare Season for Gujarat Titans’ Star Spinner

Rashid Khan, one of the world’s best spinners, had a disastrous IPL 2025 season. Playing for Gujarat Titans, Khan picked up only 9 wickets in 13 matches at an average of over 57. His normally reliable bowling was off this year, and his inability to break partnerships hurt his team’s chances.

Ravichandran Ashwin – A Return to CSK That Fell Flat

Ravichandran Ashwin’s homecoming to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) wasn’t the fairytale he hoped for. Bought for Rs 9.75 crore, Ashwin managed only 7 wickets from 9 matches, which was far below expectations. His performance in the tournament was lackluster, and CSK fans were hoping for more impact from their veteran spinner.

Deepak Chahar – Mumbai Indians’ Weak Link

Deepak Chahar, one of Mumbai Indians’ key bowlers, couldn’t make much of an impact in IPL 2025. With just 11 wickets from 14 matches, Chahar struggled to build pressure and support his team’s bowling attack. His inability to deliver in key moments made him one of the weaker links in the Mumbai Indians lineup.

Mohammed Shami – SRH’s Big-money Flop

Mohammed Shami was purchased by Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) for Rs 10 crore, but his return to the IPL after missing the previous season was far from spectacular. Shami could only manage 6 wickets from 9 matches, with an alarming economy rate of over 11. His underwhelming performance was one of the key reasons behind SRH’s struggles.