IPL 2025: 3 Teams That Can Sign Ibrahim Zadran

Ibrahim Zadran went unsold in the IPL 2025 auction despite setting his base price at INR 75 lakh. However, teams still have the option to sign him as an injury replacement or if they have an empty slot in their squad.

The Afghan opener has been in outstanding form recently. He smashed 177 runs off just 146 balls in the Champions Trophy 2025, registering the highest individual score in the tournament’s history. With his ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed, he could be a valuable addition to any IPL team.

On that note, let’s take a look at three teams that can sign him in IPL 2025:

1. Royal Challengers Bengaluru

RCB could consider signing Ibrahim Zadran due to the uncertainty surrounding Jacob Bethell’s availability. The English all-rounder is already missing the Champions Trophy 2025 due to a hamstring injury, raising doubts about his participation in IPL 2025.

If Bethell is ruled out, Zadran would be a fitting replacement as per IPL rules, which state that a replacement player’s base price should be equal to or lower than the selling price of the player being replaced. Zadran’s base price was INR 75 lakh, while Bethell was bought for INR 2.6 crore, making the move possible.

2. Rajasthan Royals

Rajasthan Royals made some big changes ahead of IPL 2025, including releasing their star opener, Jos Buttler. They are expected to open with Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sanju Samson, but both players are currently recovering from injuries.

If either of them fails to regain full fitness before IPL 2025 or suffers a setback during the season, RR might need a quality opener as a replacement. Reports suggest that Samson is still recovering from thumb surgery, and if he is unavailable, they could sign Zadran to open alongside Jaiswal. Both are aggressive batters who can provide solid starts at the top.

3. Lucknow Super Giants

LSG could also be a potential destination for Ibrahim Zadran, especially if Mitchell Marsh is ruled out due to injury. There have been speculations regarding Marsh’s fitness, and if he misses the season, LSG will need to bring in a replacement.

Given that they already have power-hitters in the middle order, signing an experienced opener like Zadran could be a smart move. He has plenty of experience at the top and could add stability to their batting lineup.