The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season has brought some spectacular displays from cricket's elite stars, but often it's the underrated players quietly making consistent impacts who can become game-changers in fantasy cricket leagues. This blog highlights the top 5 underrated IPL 2025 players, backed by their recent performances, and provides fantasy cricket tips on how to utilize them for maximum ROI in your Dream11 or other fantasy teams.

1. Angkrish Raghuvanshi (Kolkata Knight Riders)

Angkrish Raghuvanshi has been one of the most consistent performers for KKR this season. With a powerplay strike rate of 176.70, he brings explosive firepower to the top order and an overall average of 33.33 speaks to his reliability during crucial moments. He has amassed 286 runs at an impressive strike rate of 145.17, contributing important runs when the team needs it most. Given his ability to handle both pace and spin and provide stability, he is a dark horse pick for fantasy leagues, especially in powerplay phases where he often opens the innings.​

Fantasy Tip:

Pick Raghuvanshi as your powerplay opener or a mid-order differential pick. His high strike rate and consistency mean he can fetch points from boundaries and strike rate bonuses.

2. Ayush Badoni (Lucknow Super Giants)

Ayush Badoni has been a standout yet underrated asset for LSG. Scoring 326 runs at an aggressive strike rate north of 150, Badoni has constructed crucial partnerships and provided stability beyond LSG’s star overseas players. He averages 36.22 and is among the highest boundary hitters for his side. Despite flying under the radar due to bigger-ticket names overshadowing him, Badoni’s adaptability against varying bowling attacks makes him a must-watch player this season.​

Fantasy Tip:

Include Badoni in your XI as a middle-order batter with a knack for quick runs. His ability to hit boundaries frequently will reward fantasy points consistently.

3. Noor Ahmad (Chennai Super Kings)

Left-arm spinner Noor Ahmad, considered a mirror image of Rashid Khan, has been quietly impactful for the Chennai Super Kings. Though released ahead of the mega auction, he remains a valuable fantasy pick due to his economical bowling and wicket-taking ability. His left-arm spin adds variety to the attack, and his IPL price tag remains modest compared to his potential impact on matches.​

Fantasy Tip:

Noor Ahmad is a valuable low-cost spinner for fantasy teams. Use him as a specialist bowler in the middle overs, especially in bigger contests where differential picks make the difference.

4. Sameer Rizvi (Delhi Capitals)

Emerging as an aggressive game-changer, Sameer Rizvi has impressed with his quick scoring ability in domestic T20 leagues and has transitioned skillfully into IPL 2025. Known for his explosive strike rate nearing 188 in domestic matches, Rizvi provides high fantasy returns when he gets going. His young age and raw talent make him an exciting pick for fantasy managers willing to take a slight risk for a big payoff.​

Fantasy Tip:

Deploy Rizvi as a middle-order striker. Use him in fantasy teams where you can afford a gamble on young talent with match-winning potential.

5. Travis Head (Sunrisers Hyderabad)

Although well known internationally, Travis Head remains underrated in fantasy cricket because his contributions across IPL seasons often go unnoticed in headline stats. As an explosive opener with a strong strike rate and good consistency, Head consistently racks up runs and provides excellent balance. His ability to score quickly in powerplays translates well into fantasy points, making him a sleeper pick in many Dream11 teams.​

Fantasy Tip:

Select Head as your opening batter or vice-captain in fantasy leagues. His consistency in scoring and boundary hitting makes him a reliable fantasy asset.

Fantasy Cricket Tips to Maximize Returns with Underrated Players

• Focus on Powerplay Performers: Players like Raghuvanshi and Head who strike hard in the first six overs can earn bonus points due to strike rate and boundary bonuses.

• Balance Star Players and Underdogs: Combine your big names with these underrated players to maximize differential potential.

• Pick All-Rounders or Multi-Dimensional Players: All-round skills or players contributing in both batting and fielding, such as Ayush Badoni, yield consistent points.

• Keep Track of Player Form and Matchups: Monitor which players excel against particular teams or in certain conditions to make smarter selections.

• Low-Cost Players with High Potential: Spinners like Noor Ahmad provide great value in fantasy teams by contributing economical spells and crucial wickets.

By including these underrated IPL 2025 players in your fantasy teams, you not only gain an edge over others but also enjoy watching emerging stars play pivotal roles. Stay updated with player form and team dynamics to tweak your lineups for maximum impact.

This blog aims to help fantasy cricket enthusiasts discover hidden gems in IPL 2025 while offering strategic insights to enhance your Dream11 and other fantasy league experiences.

If you want to stay ahead in the IPL fantasy game, consider these five underrated players as your secret weapons!