Who is Salil Arora? Punjab wicketkeeper-batter stuns with 39-ball hundred in SMAT ahead of IPL 2026 auction
Punjab wicketkeeper-batsman Salil Arora grabbed attention with his 39-ball hundred in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy just a few days before the IPL 2026 Auction. His explosive batting intensified the buzz around his prospects and raised his profile among franchises.
Punjab wicket-keeper batsman Salil Arora recently hit the headlines with a dazzling century off 39 balls in the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. This remarkable achievement holds special significance as it comes just ahead of the IPL mini auction scheduled for December 16.
Serving as India’s premier domestic T20 competition, the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy has become a vital stage for the state’s cricketers to showcase their skills in the fast-paced format of the game. His performances often attract the attention of observers from various IPL franchises.
Additionally, the IPL has also witnessed some interesting scouting decisions in recent years. The recruitment of players like Vaibhav Suryavanshi and Ayush Mhatre stand out as prime examples of effective scouting.
Who is Salil Arora?
Punjab opener Salil Arora put up a stunning performance in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy qualifying match against Jharkhand, scoring a century off just 39 balls. The goalkeeper in the middle row made an unforgettable shot.
Arora, when he was just 23, had his sights set on Sushant Mishra, who faced the brunt of his attack and suffered a defeat of three sixes and a four in the final. His explosive knock helped Punjab reach 235 for 6, with Arora scoring a remarkable 125 after just 45 deliveries.
He achieved a staggering strike rate of over 250 with an impressive tally of 9 fours and 11 sixes. This might be Arora’s last appearance of the SMAT season before the IPL mini-auction and he certainly made the most of the opportunity.
The Punjab batter is scheduled to be included in the upcoming IPL mini-auction among uncapped players priced below INR 30 lakh. Considering his recent performance, he could be an attractive prospect for many franchises looking to secure a long-term Indian goalkeeper.
Teams like Kolkata Knight Riders and Punjab Kings are reportedly interested in adding him to their squad as they are in search of a reliable goalkeeper. Salil Arora, an Indian wicketkeeper and talented middle-order batsman, is undoubtedly a player that teams should take into consideration.
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