England’s legendary pacer James Anderson has officially registered for the IPL 2025 mega auction according to ESPNCricinfo, setting his base price at INR 1.25 crore. This announcement comes as a surprise to many, as Anderson has not played T20 cricket since 2014 and has never participated in the IPL. The veteran bowler, who retired from international cricket earlier this year, is currently serving as the bowling consultant for England’s Test team.

Despite focusing on coaching duties, Anderson seems keen to explore new opportunities in franchise cricket, marking his potential debut in the IPL at the age of 42. Over his T20 career, Anderson has played 44 matches, taking 41 wickets at an average of 32.14.

Meanwhile, Anderson's former England Test captain Ben Stokes has decided to skip the IPL 2025 auction, prioritizing England's packed Test schedule. Stokes, who also opted out of IPL 2024, has been managing his workload and fitness after suffering a hamstring injury during The Hundred earlier this year.

Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc, who set a record as the most expensive player in IPL history with his INR 24.50 crore acquisition by Kolkata Knight Riders in 2024, will enter the IPL 2025 auction with a base price of INR 2 crore. Starc, reportedly disappointed by KKR's decision not to retain him, is a highly anticipated name in this year's auction pool. Joining him is England's ODI World Cup-winning pacer Jofra Archer, also with a base price of INR 2 crore. Archer, sidelined since 2023 due to injuries, played only five games for Mumbai Indians in his last IPL stint. Fans are eagerly awaiting the return of these two star bowlers to the IPL arena.