Sat Nov 23 17:00:00 UTC 2024: ## IPL Auction Buzz: Samad and Ahmed’s Stellar Performances Boost Auction Prospects

**Jeddah, Saudi Arabia –** Ahead of the highly anticipated IPL 2025 mega auction, former Sunrisers Hyderabad players Abdul Samad and Shahbaz Ahmed have significantly boosted their market value with impressive performances in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT). The auction, set to begin tomorrow in Jeddah, will see 577 players vying for spots in the various franchises.

Samad, representing Jammu & Kashmir, smashed an unbeaten 74 off just 29 balls against Jharkhand, propelling his team to a commanding 224/4. His explosive innings, featuring 5 fours and 7 sixes, showcased the power-hitting ability that had already attracted IPL attention. Meanwhile, Shahbaz Ahmed displayed his all-round talent for Bengal, scoring an unbeaten century (100 off 49) against Punjab in a successful 180-run chase. He also contributed a wicket with the ball.

Both players were released by SRH before the October 31st retention deadline. Samad enters the auction with a base price of INR 30 lakhs, while Ahmed’s base price is set at INR 1 crore. Their recent SMAT performances are expected to generate significant interest from franchises looking for explosive batting and all-round prowess. The auction promises to be a keenly contested affair, with franchises closely monitoring the bidding war, particularly for players like Samad and Ahmed, who have demonstrated their match-winning potential. This is the second time the IPL auction is being held outside India, following last year’s event in Dubai.

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