IPL 2025’s standout XI from teams that failed to reach playoffs

After several weeks of electrifying contests and unpredictable turns, the league stage of IPL 2025 culminated in dramatic fashion. The final standings were only confirmed on the concluding day of the group phase, underscoring the razor-thin margins and competitive intensity that defined this year’s edition. As the dust settled on Tuesday, the top four teams, Punjab Kings, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Gujarat Titans, and Mumbai Indians, secured their spots in what promises to be a riveting playoff showdown.

Despite missing out on the playoffs, several players from eliminated teams have left a lasting impression in IPL 2025. Below is a standout XI featuring the most impactful performers who couldn’t guide their teams into the final four but showcased top-tier cricket throughout the season.

Openers: Mitchell Marsh and Yashasvi Jaiswal

Mitchell Marsh and Yashasvi Jaiswal were among the most explosive and consistent opening batters of IPL 2025. Marsh combined power with precision, tormenting bowlers in the powerplay. Jaiswal, with his aggressive stroke play and fearless intent, consistently provided strong starts. Their high strike rates and match-winning knocks make them the ideal opening duo from the eliminated teams.

Middle order: Nicholas Pooran, KL Rahul, Heinrich Klaasen

Nicholas Pooran slots in at number three, having anchored several innings for Lucknow Super Giants. His 524 runs came at an astounding strike rate of 196.25, with an average of 43.44, making him one of the most dangerous batters this season.

KL Rahul, versatile as ever, earns the number four spot. Although primarily known for his opening exploits, Rahul adapted to the middle order for Delhi Capitals and delivered crucial performances, especially in the early half of the campaign.

At number five is Heinrich Klaasen, the most reliable batter for Sunrisers Hyderabad. Known for his brutal hitting, Klaasen ended the season with a sensational century, also taking up wicketkeeping duties in this team.

All-Rounders: Axar Patel and Ayush Badoni

Axar Patel not only contributed with bat and ball but also stood out as a natural leader. He scored 263 runs at a brisk strike rate of 157.49 and chipped in with vital wickets. His leadership qualities and all-round presence make him the captain of this XI.

Ayush Badoni’s lower-order cameos were instrumental for LSG. Scoring 329 runs at a strike rate of 148.20, he often rescued his side in pressure situations.

Bowlers: Khaleel Ahmed, Harshal Patel, Noor Ahmad, Vaibhav Arora

Khaleel Ahmed and Vaibhav Arora form the pace spearhead, both proving to be dependable wicket-takers with the new ball. Arora bagged 17 wickets in 12 matches, while Khaleel added 15 scalps.

Harshal Patel, known for his variations and control at the death, took 16 wickets and was a consistent performer in crunch overs.

Noor Ahmad leads the spin department. The Afghan left-arm wrist spinner stood tall for CSK with his breakthroughs in the middle overs, finishing with 24 wickets and playing a lone yet valiant role in their bowling setup.

Playing XI: Mitchell Marsh, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Nicholas Pooran, KL Rahul, Heinrich Klaasen, Axar Patel, Ayush Badoni, Khaleel Ahmed, Harshal Patel, Noor Ahmad, Vaibhav Arora

This article first appeared on Mid Day