Thomas Draca Makes History as First Italian IPL Player
Italian fast bowler Thomas Draca has etched his name in history by becoming the first player from Italy to register for the prestigious Indian Premier League (IPL) auction. This is a landmark achievement, not just for Draca but for Italian cricket as a whole, marking the country’s potential entry into one of the world’s most competitive cricket leagues. Draca’s registration for the IPL 2025 mega auction is a proud moment for both him and his home country, signaling the growing international appeal of the sport in Italy.
Draca’s Impressive Performance in Global T20 Canada
The 24-year-old pacer has showcased his skills on the global stage, particularly during his stint with the Brampton Wolves in the 2024 Global T20 Canada. Draca was one of the standout performers, finishing as the joint second-highest wicket-taker of the tournament. With 11 wickets from six innings, Draca impressed with an average of 10.63 and an economy rate of 6.88. His key contributions included a match-winning 3/18 against Surrey, which helped his team defend a challenging target of 198. These performances proved instrumental in Brampton’s strong campaign, where they finished second in the points table before being eliminated in Qualifier 2.
Draca’s Strong International Credentials
Draca’s rise to prominence hasn’t just been limited to domestic leagues. Since his international debut for Italy against Luxembourg in June 2024, he has quickly made a name for himself in T20I cricket. His figures of 2/15 on debut were impressive, and he has continued to perform at a high level, picking up eight wickets in four T20I matches at an outstanding average of 8.50 and an economy rate of 4.25. His best performance of 3/9 came against the Isle of Man, showcasing his ability to deliver in key moments.
IPL 2025 Auction and Franchises’ Interest
As the IPL 2025 mega auction approaches, Draca is one of the 1,574 players who have registered, including 409 overseas players. The auction will take place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on November 24 and 25, and teams will be keen to fill 204 available slots. With franchises having a capped squad size of 25 players, there is significant competition for spots. Draca, with his strong bowling credentials, is sure to attract attention, especially given his impressive performances in both T20 leagues and international cricket.
Draca’s Growing Reputation in the UAE and Global Leagues
In addition to his IPL ambitions, Draca has already made strides in the UAE’s ILT20 league, where he secured a contract with MI Emirates. This further demonstrates his growing reputation as an international cricketer, particularly in T20 formats. His consistent performances in various leagues have made him a sought-after player, and his IPL registration is another step in his pursuit of playing at the highest levels of the game.
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A Key Addition for IPL Franchises
Draca’s skills as an all-rounder, especially his pace bowling, could be a valuable asset for any IPL franchise looking to strengthen their bowling attack. His ability to provide crucial breakthroughs and control the game in the middle overs, combined with his impressive stats, make him an appealing option for IPL teams. Franchises may view him as a potential game-changer who could make an immediate impact in the competition.
Conclusion: Draca’s Historic IPL Journey Begins
With the IPL 2025 auction just around the corner, Thomas Draca’s registration marks the beginning of what could be a historic journey for the young Italian cricketer. His performances in global leagues and T20 internationals have already established him as a promising talent, and the IPL could be the next big step in his career. Whether he will secure a spot in one of the IPL franchises remains to be seen, but his entry into the auction is a significant milestone for both Draca and Italian cricket.
