England’s fast bowler Jofra Archer’s name was not included in the final list of players for the IPL 2025 Mega Auction released by the BCCI. Out of the 574 players shortlisted, 37 are from England, but Archer was initially not part of the list. However, reports now suggest that Archer has been granted entry into the mega auction as a “wild card.” This is an unusual move since players not included in the final list are rarely added later. More details on how this became possible are expected soon.
According to a report by The Cricketer, any of the 10 franchises can now bid for Jofra Archer as his name has been added back to the final list. However, there has been no official update from BCCI or IPL organizers regarding this. With the IPL 2025 Mega Auction set to take place in Jeddah on November 24 and 25, there isn’t much time left. It is believed that Archer initially registered for the auction but withdrew his name later, reportedly on the advice of the England Cricket Board (ECB).
A Potential Two-Year Ban for Jofra Archer
If Archer had withdrawn from the auction at the ECB’s request, he could have faced a two-year ban. This would have made him ineligible not only for the IPL 2025 Mega Auction but also for the 2026 Mini Auction. According to BCCI rules, players unavailable for the mega auction cannot participate in the mini auction either, except in cases of injury. However, Archer is fit and currently playing for England, so stepping away from the auction would have directly led to a ban.