Azmatullah Omarzai’s all-round skill set makes him a reliable option for teams in the upcoming IPL 2025 mega auction.
Azmatullah Omarzai has only played seven IPL matches, but his recent all-round performance against Bangladesh couldn’t have been more timely, with the IPL 2025 auction just two weeks away. This impressive display is expected to attract interest from several teams eager to sign him for next season, likely increasing his value.
Omarzai produced a brilliant all-round performance that helped Afghanistan to a 2-1 ODI series victory over Bangladesh in Sharjah.
First with the ball, Omarzai took four wickets, helping Afghanistan restrict Bangladesh to 244/8. During the chase, when Afghanistan were struggling at 84/3, Omarzai formed a 100-run partnership with Rahmanullah Gurbaz. After Gurbaz’s dismissal, Omarzai maintained his composure and scored an unbeaten 70 to guide Afghanistan to a five-wicket victory and clinch the series 2-1.
Also Read: 4 teams that will target Rahmanullah Gurbaz in IPL 2025 auction
The Gujarat Titans released Azmatullah Omarzai before the auction and retained five players. They have one right to match (RTM) remaining, which they can use on any called-up player, including Omarzai. However, other teams are likely to target him and if the bid is high, it may be difficult for GT to land him.
We expect three teams to be among those likely to target Azmatullah Omarzai.
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)
Royal Challengers Bengaluru struggled in IPL 2024 without a reliable all-rounder in their team. Glenn Maxwell played 10 matches but could only manage 52 runs and take 6 wickets, below expectations. As a result, RCB released him ahead of the IPL 2025 auction.
Additionally, Cameroon Green, who had a decent season, was also released due to an injury that will keep him unavailable for next season. With these holes in their lineup, RCB will be looking for an all-rounder in the auction.
Azmatullah Omarzai, who can bat and bowl, could be the perfect option as RCB needs a player who can bowl at medium pace and contribute in all areas. Omarzai’s performance could be the solution to the role RCB expected Maxwell to play.
Also Read: KKR released batsman breaks Virat Kohli’s record in series decider to boost IPL 2025 auction chances
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)
Lucknow Super Giants have released two experienced all-rounders Krunal Pandya and Marcus Stoinis. Krunal had a disappointing season with both bat and ball, leading to his release. Their struggles in both areas made it clear that the team needed to move forward.
On the other hand, Marcus Stoinis performed well with the bat but faced challenges with the ball, making his pitching surprising despite his solid batting contributions. With one Right to Match (RTM) card remaining, Lucknow Super Giants can choose to use it on Krunal or Stoinis.
However, signing Azmatullah Omarzai could prove to be a better option. Omarzai brings all-round skills, contributing with both the bat and the ball. His versatility allows him to bowl at any stage of the game, be it new ball, mid-off or at the death. Also, he could complement Mohsin Khan as a new bowling option.
Also Read: Mohammed Shami to Mumbai Indians (MI) in IPL 2025 auction? Jasprit Bumrah could get a big bowling partner
Delhi Capitals (DC)
Delhi Capitals initially had Mitch Marsh as their medium-pace batting all-rounder in IPL 2024, but a hamstring injury led to his replacement by Gulbadin Naib. Unfortunately, Naib only played two matches, leaving Axar Patel as the team’s only all-rounder. This absence of another all-rounder was felt throughout the season.
Now, with Azmatullah Omarzai up for auction after being released by Gujarat Titans, DC should consider bidding for him. Omarzai can strengthen the middle order alongside Stubbs and Axar Patel, providing batting depth and the ability to deliver a full quota of 4 overs with the ball, a role DC missed out on last season.
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