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The IPL auctions are renowned for their unpredictability, where players can turn into overnight millionaires or ‘steal buys’ for their value. The 2025 mega auction is no exception, with teams likely to break the bank for several standout players. Here’s a look at the top 10 cricketers who could fetch the biggest bucks in the IPL 2025 auction.
1. Rishabh Pant
The charismatic wicket-keeper batter brings unmatched versatility with his skills in keeping, batting, and leadership. Pant’s prowess as a game-changer, coupled with his strong brand value, makes him a prized target for franchises seeking a captain. With over 3,000 IPL runs at a strike rate nearing 150, the 27-year-old is a strong contender to break auction records.
2. KL Rahul
Returning to the auction for the first time since 2018, KL Rahul is set to attract aggressive bidding. His consistency with the bat—scoring over 4,600 runs in 132 matches—and leadership credentials position him as an ideal captaincy option. Rahul’s ability to anchor innings and accelerate at will makes him a dream buy for any team.
3. Jos Buttler
The English white-ball skipper is arguably one of the best T20 batters of this era. Known for his flamboyance and reliability, Buttler has amassed over 3,600 IPL runs, including seven centuries, at a strike rate of 147. Teams looking for an explosive top-order batter and leader will likely engage in a bidding war for the 34-year-old.
4. Shreyas Iyer
A proven captain with a title-winning stint at Kolkata Knight Riders, Shreyas Iyer is a composed middle-order batter who excels against spin. His tally of 3,127 runs in 116 matches and leadership acumen make him a hot property for franchises needing stability and experience in their middle order.
5. Mohammed Shami
Fresh off a successful World Cup and known for his devastating new-ball spells, Mohammed Shami is expected to garner attention. With 127 IPL wickets in 110 matches, including a Purple Cap-winning season, his ability to deliver in high-pressure situations ensures a bidding frenzy for this seasoned pacer.
6. Jake Fraser-McGurk
The 22-year-old Australian batter burst onto the scene with his explosive hitting at a strike rate of 230 in the last season. Known for his powerplay dominance, Fraser-McGurk’s ability to take games away early could make him one of the most expensive young players in the 2025 auction.
7. Arshdeep Singh
A rarity in Indian cricket, left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh is a versatile bowler capable of performing in all phases of an innings. With 76 wickets in 65 matches and on the cusp of becoming India’s top T20I wicket-taker, his skillset guarantees high bids as teams vie for a reliable death-over specialist.
8. Yuzvendra Chahal
With over 200 wickets—the most in IPL history—Chahal remains an indispensable asset. His knack for controlling the middle overs and delivering match-winning spells makes him a top pick for any team. The leg-spinner’s experience and success with Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bangalore add to his allure.
9. Mitchell Starc
The costliest IPL player in history after his Rs 24.75 crore deal with KKR in 2024, Starc’s fiery pace and ability to swing the ball early ensure he remains in demand. Despite a lukewarm season, his clutch performances in crucial matches like the playoffs highlight his immense value. Franchises will likely engage in another bidding war for this gun pacer.
10. Glenn Maxwell
A seasoned all-rounder with the ability to turn games single-handedly, Maxwell’s explosive batting—evident in his iconic 201-run knock during the 2023 World Cup—makes him a prized asset. Though his 2024 IPL season was below par, his strike rate of 155+ and experience in T20 cricket ensure he remains a marquee pick.
What to Expect in the Auction
With an impressive mix of experienced campaigners, emerging stars, and versatile all-rounders, the IPL 2025 auction promises plenty of fireworks. Teams with deep pockets will look to outbid each other for these top players, potentially setting new benchmarks for IPL contracts. Fans can expect an exciting auction filled with surprises, as every franchise aims to build a championship-winning team.
