The fourth edition of the Andhra Premier League (APL) 2025 is all set to begin on Friday, 8th August 2025, with Kakinada Kings taking on Amaravathi Royals in the opening game at Vizag. Over the past few seasons, the APL has become a strong feeder system for the Indian Premier League (IPL), offering a platform for emerging talent to showcase their skills.
Last year, APL talents Satyanarayana Raju and Pyla Avinash impressed enough to secure IPL contracts with Mumbai Indians (MI) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) respectively. As the cricketing spotlight shifts once again to Andhra’s domestic T20 league, several bowlers are eyeing a breakout season in APL 2025 to boost their chances ahead of the IPL 2026 Auction.
Harishankar Reddy – Bhimavaram Bulls’ Pace Spearhead
One of the most experienced pacers in the tournament, Harishankar Reddy has been a standout performer in the APL. The right-arm fast bowler has taken 25 wickets in 17 matches across three seasons, maintaining an impressive bowling strike rate of 14.9. Known for his ability to deliver crucial breakthroughs in both the powerplay and death overs, Harishankar mixes yorkers, leg cutters, and deceptive back-of-the-hand deliveries with ease.
Having previously been part of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) squad that won the IPL in 2021, Harishankar brings both skill and experience. A strong APL 2025 showing could easily put him back in contention for another IPL opportunity.
Yeddala Reddy – Breakout Paceman from Simhadri Vizag Lions
Another pace option who caught attention in the previous season is Yeddala Reddy. The 26-year-old right-arm fast bowler had a breakthrough year in APL 2024, grabbing nine wickets in just five games with a remarkable strike rate of 10.2. What makes him particularly exciting is his versatility — taking wickets in all three phases of the game: powerplay, middle overs, and the death.
Yeddala is aiming to build on his momentum in 2025, with the dream of signing his first-ever IPL contract during the IPL 2026 auction. If he continues his current form, franchise scouts will definitely have their eyes on him.
Gavvala Mallikarjuna – Amaravathi Royals’ Left-Arm Spin Ace
At just 21 years old, Gavvala Mallikarjuna has already made a mark with his left-arm orthodox spin. He was a key player for Amaravathi Royals in APL 2024, where he took eight wickets at a superb economy rate of 6.5. His ability to control the middle overs stood out — 11 of his 19 career wickets in APL have come between overs 7 and 15.
Mallikarjuna’s traditional spin style, relying on flight and accuracy rather than mystery, has proven effective. With another strong campaign in APL 2025, he could make a strong case for an IPL franchise looking for a reliable spin option.
