SMAT Stars Set to Shine: IPL 2026 Auction Dark Horses

Over recent years, the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) has served as a crucial platform for players looking to secure a spot in the Indian Premier League (IPL). This year’s auction is set to take place on Tuesday in Abu Dhabi.

Read Also: Top domestic T20 League performers to watch out for at the auction

The domestic T20 tournament commenced three weeks before the auction, allowing IPL scouts to observe various matches and evaluate potential contenders for the 10 franchise slots.

Featured below are the top five standout players from the Lucknow group stage of SMAT 2025-26 who may attract attention at this year’s IPL auction.

Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025-26 – Group A – Lucknow

By Dhruva Prasad

KM Asif (Kerala) – Right-arm fast bowler

Hailing from Kerala, KM Asif has consistently delivered high-speed bowling, spearheading his team’s attack in the group stage of SMAT. With 15 wickets across six matches at an economical rate of 6.73, Asif has demonstrated his skill in various stages of the game, particularly excelling in death overs. Although he has played seven IPL games between 2018 and 2023 with Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals, he was unsold in last year’s auction. His recent performances might make him a desirable backup option for teams like Chennai Super Kings, Rajasthan Royals, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Prithvi Raj Yarra (Andhra) – Left-arm fast bowler

Prithvi Raj offers a unique advantage with his left-arm pace, introducing a rare angle and diversity in the bowling lineup. Known for his controlled slower deliveries and the ability to hit hard lengths, he has taken 11 wickets in eight matches for Andhra, maintaining an economy rate of 7.23. While he previously featured in two matches for Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2019, his growing reputation suggests an upward trend in his IPL prospects.

Read Also: Five bowlers who could be surprise big buys at the auction

Sarfaraz Khan (Mumbai) – Middle-order batter

Amidst discussions about his exclusion from India’s Test squads, Sarfaraz Khan has proven his versatility, exemplified by a 47-ball century against Assam in SMAT 2025-26. Despite going unsold in the last two IPL auctions, his recent form, including a quickfire 50 against Kerala, might shift perceptions. Sarfaraz has participated in 50 IPL games since 2015, and his improved performance could make him a valuable middle-order batter this auction season.

Sadek Hussain (Assam) – Right-arm medium-pacer

With a unique round-arm bowling action reminiscent of Lasith Malinga, Sadek Hussain, originating from Assam, has the potential to surprise teams this IPL season. Though relatively new with limited experience, he has demonstrated promise, particularly with figures of 4/19 in just his second T20 match. Having attended trials with the Delhi Capitals, Sadek might be closely monitored by several franchises.

Muhammed Sharafuddeen (Kerala) – Bowling all-rounder

Known for his hard-hitting ability towards the end of an innings, Muhammed Sharafuddeen can also contribute effectively with the ball. His performance in SMAT, featuring a 15-ball unbeaten 35 and disciplinary bowling, highlights his utility as an all-rounder. Given the reduced impact of all-rounders due to the IPL’s new rules, Sharafuddeen’s skills as a batsman and bowler could still add significant depth to a team’s lineup.

Published on Dec 15, 2025