Image credits: IPL/Jio Cinema
The IPL 2025 Mega Auction lived up to its reputation as cricket’s grandest marketplace, delivering nail-biting drama and record-breaking deals. Held over two days in Jeddah, the event saw ₹639.15 crore splurged on 182 players. While some were retained through Right to Match (RTM) cards, others ignited intense bidding wars that captured the cricketing world’s attention. Here are five players who triggered mind-boggling battles among franchises:
1. Rishabh Pant to Lucknow Super Giants for ₹27 Crore
Rishabh Pant emerged as the most expensive player in IPL history, setting a new benchmark with his ₹27 crore deal with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). The battle for the flamboyant wicketkeeper-batter saw dramatic twists.
The Bidding War
- Early Momentum: LSG and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) drove the price to ₹11 crore within minutes. RCB’s withdrawal opened the door for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).
- RTM Drama: When Delhi Capitals (DC) exercised their RTM card at ₹20.75 crore, it seemed they would retain Pant. But LSG countered with an override bid, pushing the price to ₹27 crore, a record-breaking amount.
Pant’s acquisition not only cements LSG’s batting lineup but also reflects their intent to dominate IPL 2025.
2. Shreyas Iyer to Punjab Kings for ₹26.75 Crore
Shreyas Iyer’s leadership and batting prowess sparked fierce competition among franchises, with Punjab Kings (PBKS) ultimately securing him for a jaw-dropping ₹26.75 crore.
The Bidding War
- Initial Bids: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Iyer’s former team, and PBKS started the duel. Delhi Capitals joined, raising the price to ₹10 crore.
- PBKS’s Persistence: Just when DC seemed poised to win, PBKS re-entered the fray, driving the price to ₹26.75 crore and sealing the deal.
Having previously worked with PBKS head coach Ricky Ponting during his DC tenure, Iyer’s reunion with the Australian tactician adds an intriguing layer to the storyline.
3. Venkatesh Iyer to Kolkata Knight Riders for ₹23.75 Crore
After losing out on Shreyas Iyer, Kolkata Knight Riders went all-in for Venkatesh Iyer, determined to retain the versatile all-rounder.
The Bidding War
- Early Contenders: Lucknow Super Giants withdrew after KKR raised their bid to ₹7.75 crore.
- RCB’s Entry: Royal Challengers Bengaluru entered late, driving the price to over ₹20 crore.
- KKR’s Resolve: KKR’s final bid of ₹23.75 crore secured Iyer, sparking speculation that he might be groomed as their future captain.
While some experts questioned the high price, KKR valued Iyer’s ability to contribute with both bat and ball.
4. Arshdeep Singh Reclaimed by Punjab Kings for ₹18 Crore
Left-arm pacers have always been in high demand, and Arshdeep Singh’s recent T20 performances ensured a frenzied bidding war.
The Bidding War
- Multiple Contenders: CSK, DC, and Gujarat Titans led the early bidding, with DC raising the bid to ₹7.50 crore.
- RTM Saves the Day: Punjab Kings exercised their RTM card after SRH placed a ₹15.75 crore bid, eventually reclaiming Arshdeep for ₹18 crore.
This acquisition highlights Punjab’s commitment to retaining core players while reinforcing their pace attack.
5. Yuzvendra Chahal to Punjab Kings for ₹18 Crore
The IPL’s leading wicket-taker, Yuzvendra Chahal, saw fierce bidding but surprised many by moving to Punjab Kings rather than returning to Rajasthan Royals.
The Bidding War
- Steady Climb: Gujarat Titans initiated the bidding at ₹2 crore, followed by CSK and Punjab Kings.
- Late Drama: After LSG pulled out at ₹14 crore, RCB briefly rejoined, hinting at a reunion. However, Punjab outbid them, securing Chahal for ₹18 crore.
Chahal’s move to Punjab marks a significant shift, strengthening their spin department under Ricky Ponting’s leadership.
Conclusion: High-Stakes Strategy at Its Finest
The IPL 2025 auction reinforced the league’s reputation as the ultimate T20 competition, blending strategic planning with financial acumen. Players like Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer, and Yuzvendra Chahal not only commanded astronomical sums but also exemplified the franchises’ commitment to assembling world-class squads.
These intense bidding wars are a testament to the evolving dynamics of IPL auctions, where player value is determined not just by skill but also by strategic fit. With the teams now set, IPL 2025 promises to be a thrilling spectacle filled with drama, action, and unforgettable moments.
