Azmatullah Omarzai's all-round skill set makes him a reliable option for teams at 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 the upcoming season, likely raising his value.
Omarzai delivered a brilliant all-round performance that helped Afghanistan secure a 2-1 ODI series victory over Bangladesh in Sharjah.
First, with the ball, Omarzai took 4 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 kept his composure, scoring 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
Gujarat Titans have released Azmatullah Omarzai ahead of the auction and retained five players. They have one Right to Match (RTM) left, which they can use on any capped player, including Omarzai. However, other teams are likely to target him, and if the bidding goes high, it may be difficult for GT to secure him.
We expect three teams to be among those likely to target Azmatullah Omarzai.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru struggled in IPL 2024 without a reliable all-rounder in their squad. Glenn Maxwell played 10 matches but could only manage 52 runs and take 6 wickets, falling short of 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 the next season. With these gaps in their lineup, RCB will be on the lookout for an all-rounder at the auction.
Azmatullah Omarzai, who can both bat and bowl, could be the perfect fit, as RCB needs a player who can bowl medium pace and contribute in all areas. Omarzai’s performance could be the solution to the role RCB were hoping Maxwell would fulfill.
Lucknow Super Giants have released two experienced all rounders, Krunal Pandya and Marcus Stoinis. Krunal had a disappointing season with both bat and ball, which led to his release. His struggles in both areas made it clear that the team needed to move on.
On the other hand, Marcus Stoinis performed well with the bat but faced challenges with the ball, making his release surprising despite his solid batting contributions. With one Right to Match (RTM) card remaining, Lucknow Super Giants may opt to use it on Krunal or Stoinis.
However, signing Azmatullah Omarzai could prove to be a better choice. Omarzai brings all-round skills, contributing both with the bat and ball. His versatility allows him to bowl at any stage of the game, whether it’s with the new ball, in the middle overs, or at the death. Additionally, he could complement Mohsin Khan as a new ball bowling option.
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 sole all-rounder in the team. This absence of another all-rounder was felt throughout the season.
Now, with Azmatullah Omarzai in the 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 both batting depth and the ability to deliver a full quota of 4 overs with the ball, a role DC missed last season.
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