Dewald Brevis Unsold in IPL 2025 Auction: Analyzing the Setback and Future Prospects

Dewald Brevis, widely recognized as "Baby AB" for his striking resemblance to the legendary AB de Villiers in playing style, faced an unexpected setback in the IPL 2025 auction held in Jeddah on November 24 and 25. Despite entering the auction with a base price of ₹75 lakh, the young South African failed to attract any bids from the ten IPL franchises.

This surprising outcome has raised questions about why Brevis, with his undeniable talent and past exploits in T20 cricket, was left without a team for the upcoming IPL season.

Why Did Brevis Go Unsold?

The decision by IPL franchises to pass over Brevis might have stemmed from a combination of factors that impacted his appeal during the auction:

IPL 2023 Performance: Representing the Mumbai Indians in the 2023 season, Brevis played 10 matches, scoring 230 runs at an average of 23.00 and a strike rate of 133.72. While he displayed flashes of brilliance, including a high score of 49, his inability to register a fifty or match-winning performances may have influenced the decision of team managements.

Limited International Experience: Brevis debuted for South Africa in T20 Internationals in August 2023, but he struggled to make an impact, scoring only 5 runs across two matches. Teams often prioritize players with proven consistency at the international level, and Brevis’s limited exposure likely worked against him.

Auction Dynamics and Team Strategies: The IPL auction is a fiercely competitive environment where teams must balance talent, form, and budget constraints. With several established and in-form players available, franchises might have opted for alternatives that better aligned with their tactical plans.

T20 Achievements That Highlight His Potential

Despite this setback, Brevis’s credentials in T20 cricket remain impressive and underscore his potential to shine at the highest level:

Record-Breaking Innings: On October 31, 2022, Brevis smashed 162 runs off just 57 balls for the Titans against the Knights in the CSA T20 Challenge. This iconic knock is the highest individual score in T20 cricket by a South African and ranks as the joint third-highest in the format globally.

Consistent Domestic Performances: Across 69 T20 matches, Brevis has amassed 1,496 runs at an average of 24.12 and an explosive strike rate of 139.16. His tally includes a century and five half-centuries, showcasing his ability to deliver impactful innings.

These achievements solidify Brevis’s reputation as a dynamic middle-order batsman with the ability to change the course of a game.

Could Brevis Still Play in IPL 2025?

While the auction outcome is disappointing, Brevis’s IPL 2025 journey might not be over. Injuries, player withdrawals, or poor form during the season could prompt teams to look for replacements, and Brevis would undoubtedly be on their radar. His past association with the Mumbai Indians further increases the likelihood of a mid-season call-up, especially if a franchise seeks a power-hitter to bolster their middle order.

Additionally, the South African prodigy’s youth and potential ensure he remains a valuable long-term prospect for IPL teams. A strong performance in domestic or international tournaments leading up to IPL 2026 could see Brevis return stronger in the next auction.

What’s Next for “Baby AB”?

Brevis’s unsold status in the IPL 2025 auction is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of cricket’s most glamorous league. However, setbacks like these have often been the foundation for comebacks. With his T20 expertise and a determination to prove his worth, Dewald Brevis will undoubtedly aim to refine his game and seize future opportunities.

For now, fans and franchises alike will keep an eye on Brevis, waiting to see if he can make his mark in IPL 2025 as a mid-season replacement or use this experience to grow into an indispensable T20 star in years to come.