Rishabh Pant Becomes IPL’s Most Expensive Player
The IPL 2025 mega auction witnessed history as Rishabh Pant emerged as the most expensive player ever. The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) acquired Pant for an astonishing INR 27 crore, surpassing previous records. This auction, held in Jeddah, saw intense bidding wars and surprising outcomes.
Pant’s Historic Price Sets a New Benchmark
Pant’s record-breaking bid eclipsed Punjab Kings’ INR 26.75 crore purchase of Shreyas Iyer earlier in the auction. Both players are expected to take up captaincy roles for their respective teams. The earlier record was held by Mitchell Starc, sold for INR 24.75 crore in 2024.
How the Bidding Unfolded
LSG and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) began the bidding for Pant. Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) joined later but dropped out at INR 20.75 crore. LSG’s final bid of INR 27 crore sealed the deal, leaving Delhi Capitals (DC) unwilling to match the offer.
Shreyas Iyer Joins Punjab Kings for INR 26.75 Crore
Punjab Kings (PBKS) secured Shreyas Iyer for INR 26.75 crore. Iyer is expected to lead the team, reuniting with coach Ricky Ponting. Ponting expressed excitement about working with Iyer again, recalling their time together at DC.
Venkatesh Iyer Stuns with INR 23.75 Crore Deal
KKR made headlines by reclaiming Venkatesh Iyer for INR 23.75 crore. This marks a triumphant return for Iyer, one of KKR’s key players.
Other High-Value Buys
- KL Rahul: Bought by DC for INR 14 crore.
- Jos Buttler: Gujarat Titans (GT) secured him for INR 15.75 crore.
- Mitchell Starc: Sold to DC for INR 11.75 crore.
- Kagiso Rabada: GT bought him for INR 10.75 crore.
Yuzvendra Chahal Commands INR 18 Crore
PBKS acquired Yuzvendra Chahal, outbidding multiple teams. Chahal expressed his excitement, calling it a career highlight.
Unsold Players: Warner and Bairstow
Surprisingly, veterans like David Warner and Jonny Bairstow went unsold. They may reappear in the accelerated rounds.
The IPL 2025 auction has already set the stage for a thrilling season. Fans are eagerly awaiting the league’s start to see these big-ticket players in action.
Get ready for IPL 2025 as history unfolds! Stay tuned for updates at The News Buzz!
