IPL Auction 2025: Which team will buy Mohammed Shami? These 3 franchises likely to bid for India's ODI World Cup star

In what may have been a foreseen move, Gujarat Titans (GT) have not retained Mohammed Shami, one of the finest fast bowlers of this generation, ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction.

Shami, GT’s leading wicket-taker in their 2022 title-winning campaign with 20 scalps, was let go due to recurring injury concerns.

The right-arm pacer missed the 2024 IPL season as he was recovering from an ankle injury sustained during the ICC ODI World Cup 2023. Despite his recent setbacks, Shami remains a formidable force in T20 cricket, having bagged 79 wickets in 77 IPL matches at an economy of 8.63.

Teams likely eyeing Mohammed Shami

Three franchises are reportedly interested in acquiring the experienced pacer for the upcoming season:

1. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
KKR have released veteran Mitchell Starc, leaving a crucial gap in their bowling attack. Shami’s ability to strike in the powerplay and his wealth of experience make him an ideal replacement.

2. Delhi Capitals (DC)
Shami has a history with Delhi Capitals, having played four seasons with the franchise. Now a vastly improved bowler compared to his stint with the team in 2018, Shami could fit well into DC’s plans. With a robust budget of Rs 73 crore, the Capitals have the financial muscle to bring the pacer back into their fold.

3. Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
Known for valuing experienced players, CSK is reportedly monitoring GT's released players closely. Shami’s new-ball skills and ability to swing the ball effectively could make him a valuable asset for MS Dhoni’s team. Notably, CSK had expressed interest in trading for Shami last season, a proposal GT declined.

Shami’s IPL Journey

Mohammed Shami debuted in the IPL with Kolkata Knight Riders in 2011 and stayed with the franchise until 2013. In 2014, Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) acquired him for Rs 4.25 crore. However, Shami's stint with Delhi was underwhelming, with an economy rate exceeding nine runs per over.

The pacer found his stride after being signed by Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings) for Rs 4.4 crore in 2019. Shami consistently delivered, picking up 19 wickets in 2019, 20 in 2020, and 19 in 2021.

In 2022, Gujarat Titans drafted him into their inaugural squad, where he played a pivotal role in their title-winning season, taking 20 wickets in 17 games. Shami followed it up with a stellar 2023 campaign, claiming the Purple Cap with 28 wickets in 17 matches.

As Shami enters the IPL 2025 auction with a base price of Rs 2 crore, his proven track record and game-changing abilities are likely to make him one of the most sought-after players in the auction.