Italian Cricketer Thomas Jack Draca Registers for IPL 2025 Auction
Italy’s Thomas Jack Draca, a 24-year-old right-arm medium pacer, has registered for the Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auction, scheduled for November 24-25 in Jeddah. With 1,574 players listed for this year’s auction, including 320 capped players, 1,224 uncapped players, and 30 from Associate Nations, Draca stands out as Italy’s sole representative. His registration dispels previous speculation about Joe Burns, an Australian cricketer who recently relocated to Italy, being the player from Italy in the auction. Sportstar confirmed that Draca, listed as the 325th player just ahead of Canada’s Harsh Thaker, is the Italian participant for this year’s mega event.
Draca made his international debut in T20s for Italy against Luxembourg on June 9, 2024. In his short international career so far, he has played four T20Is and claimed eight wickets, showcasing his potential on the global cricket stage. While it’s his first time entering the IPL auction, Draca isn’t a stranger to competitive cricket, having been associated with the Mumbai Indians’ MI Emirates in the ILT20 and playing in the Canada T20 league for the Brampton Wolves.
Italy is generally recognized as a football-driven country, but in recent years, cricket has started to carve a niche there, with the country’s cricket team participating in ICC-affiliated tournaments and gaining experience on international platforms. Italian players’ appearances in high-profile leagues and tournaments could contribute to expanding cricket’s popularity within Italy and helping develop the sport’s grassroots foundation in the region.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has highlighted the significance of the 2025 IPL auction, as it brings together players from various countries, including multiple players from Associate Nations. While Italy’s presence in cricket is still emerging, the entry of players like Draca represents a gradual shift in the sports landscape. Draca’s potential selection in the IPL could increase visibility for cricket within Italy and inspire more players to take up the sport in regions where it has yet to gain significant popularity.
Draca’s addition to the player pool is part of the broader trend of emerging nations in cricket, emphasizing the IPL’s role in giving opportunities to diverse talents. Cricket’s global reach continues to grow as leagues like the IPL introduce international players from a wide range of backgrounds. Draca’s performance in leagues such as the ILT20 and the Canadian T20 league has positioned him as a player to watch in the upcoming auction. If picked by an IPL team, it will be interesting to see how he adapts to the rigorous demands of the tournament and competes alongside the world’s best cricketers.
In recent years, the IPL has been held in various cities in India and occasionally overseas, but Jeddah hosting this year’s mega auction is a notable shift, signaling the league’s growing appeal across different regions. The choice of Jeddah may serve as a strategic move to engage a wider audience in the Middle East, which has shown a keen interest in the sport.
As cricket continues to make inroads in countries outside its traditional strongholds, players like Draca represent the increasing opportunities for Associate Nations. The inclusion of more players from regions like Italy indicates the sport’s evolving global landscape and highlights the role of leagues like the IPL in creating a platform for emerging talents. As he steps into one of the biggest auctions in cricket, Draca’s journey could be pivotal for other Italian players, potentially inspiring more participation and interest in cricket back home.
In addition to traditional cricketing powerhouses, leagues worldwide are recognizing the value of players from diverse backgrounds, fostering inclusivity and adding fresh dynamics to the sport. Draca’s story underscores the IPL’s commitment to tapping into raw talent and expanding cricket’s boundaries. Should he make it onto an IPL team, he will not only have a chance to showcase his skills but will also be part of a movement aiming to make cricket a more globally inclusive sport.