IPL Teams Likely to Target Marco Jansen in the IPL 2025 Auction 

As the Indian Premier League (IPL) heads into the 2025 season, franchises are already strategizing on potential acquisitions to bolster their squads. One player who is sure to spark interest is South African all-rounder Marco Jansen. Known for his left-arm pace, sharp bouncers, and capability with the bat, Jansen has grown into a versatile asset in T20 cricket. At 6'8" with a lethal combination of speed and bounce, he has become an invaluable player on any team. Here are five teams that could be serious contenders for Jansen's signature in the IPL 2025 auction.

1. Chennai Super Kings (CSK)

Chennai Super Kings, led by the master strategist MS Dhoni, have historically valued experienced all-rounders who bring balance to the team. With Dwayne Bravo retiring and Ben Stokes battling fitness issues, CSK needs a reliable all-rounder who can provide depth in both batting and bowling. Jansen’s left-arm pace will also add variety to CSK’s attack, something Dhoni and coach Stephen Fleming would likely appreciate. Additionally, CSK’s spin-friendly Chepauk pitch could benefit from Jansen’s bounce and movement in the powerplay and death overs, providing the perfect foil for their spin attack.

2. Mumbai Indians (MI)

Although Mumbai Indians already have a stacked pace lineup, including the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Jofra Archer, and Trent Boult, they have historically invested in young, talented all-rounders who offer long-term potential. Having previously acquired Jansen in 2021 before he moved to the Sunrisers Hyderabad, MI management may want him back to strengthen their pace and lower-order batting. With an eye on future seasons, MI could benefit from Jansen's development into a strong death bowler, while also ensuring batting depth that’s so crucial in the modern T20 game.

3. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)

KKR struggled in the 2024 season to find a dependable all-rounder who could contribute in both disciplines. With Andre Russell’s inconsistent performances due to injuries and an aging pace lineup, KKR might view Jansen as the perfect player to rejuvenate their squad. His left-arm pace would add an edge to KKR’s bowling attack, especially at Eden Gardens, where bowlers who can extract bounce are often rewarded. Additionally, Jansen’s batting ability could strengthen KKR’s often fragile middle order, helping them finish games or build competitive totals.

4. Rajasthan Royals (RR)

The Rajasthan Royals have built a formidable squad around world-class talents like Jos Buttler, Sanju Samson, and Yashasvi Jaiswal, but have often lacked a consistent all-rounder. While Jason Holder filled that role in part, Jansen offers the advantage of left-arm pace, which adds diversity to their bowling attack. His presence could support RR's ace spinner Yuzvendra Chahal and enhance their death-bowling options. Furthermore, his batting ability in the lower middle order could help in situations where RR need quick runs towards the end of their innings, adding flexibility to their lineup.

5. Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)

Sunrisers Hyderabad is perhaps the team most in need of retaining Jansen. He was a valuable asset for SRH in the 2024 season, delivering crucial spells and often providing breakthroughs when needed. SRH has struggled with consistent bowling options, and Jansen’s left-arm pace is a unique skill set they may not want to lose. Given their financial flexibility, SRH will likely go all out to keep Jansen, even if they face stiff competition. If they retain him, he’ll continue to play an important role alongside Umran Malik and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, creating a well-rounded bowling attack.

Conclusion

Marco Jansen’s unique skill set as a tall, left-arm fast-bowling all-rounder makes him a hot commodity for IPL 2025. Each of these franchises has a strategic need that Jansen could fulfill, whether it’s adding variety to the bowling attack, providing lower-order batting depth, or injecting fresh energy into aging lineups. While his current team, SRH, will likely bid to retain him, Jansen’s versatility means other teams will be vying for his services. The IPL 2025 auction could very well see a bidding war, with these five teams leading the charge to acquire the South African star.