The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction, held on November 24 and 25 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, delivered two days of thrilling bidding wars as franchises reshaped their squads for the upcoming season. With 182 players being sold, the auction witnessed record-breaking deals and intense competition for marquee stars.
Here’s a look at the top 10 most expensive players from the IPL 2025 mega auction:
1. Rishabh Pant
In a landmark moment, Rishabh Pant became the most expensive player in IPL history, fetching an astonishing ₹27 crore from Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Known for his fearless batting and sharp wicketkeeping, Pant also brings strong leadership credentials to the franchise as he takes on captaincy responsibilities. Released by Delhi Capitals, his recent form in international cricket and the IPL made him a prized asset.
2. Shreyas Iyer
Shreyas Iyer’s aggressive batting style and leadership acumen saw Punjab Kings (PBKS) break the bank with a ₹26.75 crore bid, making him the second-most expensive player ever. Iyer, who led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to title triumph in IPL 2024, is expected to play a pivotal role in Punjab’s title ambitions, offering stability and firepower in the middle order.
3. Venkatesh Iyer
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) used Right to match (RTM) to retain Venkatesh Iyer at a heavy price of ₹23.75 crore. The Indore-born cricketer proved his worth with impactful all-round performances in recent seasons. His ability to contribute in both batting and bowling departments makes him a cornerstone of KKR’s campaign as they aim for another successful season.
4. Arshdeep Singh
Punjab Kings utilized their RTM card to secure Arshdeep Singh for ₹18 crore. The left-arm pacer, celebrated for his consistent yorkers and calmness under pressure, will be the backbone of PBKS’s bowling attack, particularly in the death overs.
5. Yuzvendra Chahal
Joining Arshdeep at PBKS is veteran leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal, acquired for ₹18 crore. As the IPL’s all-time leading wicket-taker, Chahal’s expertise will fortify the team’s spin department, especially on spin-friendly tracks, making him a key figure in their lineup.
Also READ: Complete squads of all 10 teams after the IPL 2025 mega auction
6. Jos Buttler
Gujarat Titans (GT) roped in England’s dynamic batter Jos Buttler for ₹15.75 crore. The 2022 Orange Cap winner is expected to bring explosive starts and match-winning knocks to GT’s top order, significantly enhancing their firepower in the batting department.
7. KL Rahul
Delhi Capitals (DC) made a big statement by acquiring KL Rahul for ₹14 crore. Known for his elegance and consistency, Rahul is expected to lead DC’s batting unit after the departure of Rishabh Pant. His leadership experience will also be crucial in reviving the team’s fortunes.
8. Trent Boult
Mumbai Indians (MI) welcomed back Trent Boult for ₹12.5 crore. The New Zealand pacer, known for his ability to swing the ball and deliver crucial breakthroughs in powerplay overs, will reunite with Jasprit Bumrah to form a lethal bowling duo.
9. Josh Hazlewood
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) secured Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood for ₹12.5 crore. Renowned for his accuracy and composure, Hazlewood will bolster RCB’s bowling attack, particularly during the death overs.
10. Jofra Archer
Despite injury concerns, Jofra Archer attracted a ₹12.5 crore bid from Rajasthan Royals (RR). The English pacer’s express speed and ability to thrive under pressure make him a game-changer for RR as they aim to reclaim their IPL dominance.
Also READ: ‘Nepotism’ – Fans roast MI over Arjun Tendulkar’s last-minute-selection in the IPL 2025 mega auction
