The opening day of the IPL 2025 mega auction in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, saw record-breaking deals as franchises spent a massive INR 467.95 crore on 72 players. Teams engaged in fierce bidding wars to secure top talent, resulting in several players fetching unprecedented sums. Rishabh Pant shattered records to become the most expensive player in IPL history, while other Indian stars also commanded hefty price tags. Here’s a look at the top five most expensive Indian players from Day 1 of the auction.
- Rishabh Pant – Lucknow Super Giants (INR 27 Crore)
Rishabh Pant made history as the highest-paid player in IPL history, with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) securing his services for an astounding INR 27 crore. LSG outbid Delhi Capitals, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and Sunrisers Hyderabad in a heated battle to claim the dynamic wicketkeeper-batter. With 3,284 runs in 111 matches at a blistering strike rate of 148.93, Pant’s explosive batting and leadership qualities will bolster Lucknow’s lineup.
- Shreyas Iyer – Punjab Super Kings (INR 26.75 Crore)
Punjab Super Kings made Shreyas Iyer their marquee signing, acquiring the former KKR captain for INR 26.75 crore. The bidding war saw Punjab outlast Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders to secure the stylish middle-order batter. With 3,127 runs in 115 IPL games, Iyer’s consistency and leadership make him a pivotal addition to Punjab’s squad. He is expected to captain the side and provide stability to their batting order.
- Venkatesh Iyer – Kolkata Knight Riders (INR 23.75 Crore)
Kolkata Knight Riders broke the bank to bring back Venkatesh Iyer for INR 23.75 crore, after releasing him earlier. Known for his versatility as an all-rounder, Iyer played a crucial role in KKR’s success over the years. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball made him a priority for the franchise, which won a bidding war against Lucknow Super Giants and Royal Challengers Bengaluru. In 50 IPL games, Iyer has scored 1,326 runs at a strike rate of 137.13.
- Arshdeep Singh – Punjab Super Kings (INR 18 Crore)
Arshdeep Singh kicked off the auction with a bang, drawing bids from Chennai Super Kings, Rajasthan Royals, Delhi Capitals, and Gujarat Titans. Ultimately, Punjab Super Kings used their Right to Match (RTM) card to retain the left-arm pacer for INR 18 crore. A reliable death bowler and a T20 World Cup winner, Arshdeep has taken 76 wickets in 65 IPL games, establishing himself as one of the league’s top fast bowlers.
- Yuzvendra Chahal – Punjab Super Kings (INR 18 Crore)
Yuzvendra Chahal, the IPL’s all-time leading wicket-taker with 205 scalps, became Punjab Super Kings’ key spin signing for INR 18 crore. A bidding war involving Gujarat Titans, Chennai Super Kings, Lucknow Super Giants, and Sunrisers Hyderabad ended with Punjab securing the seasoned leg-spinner. With a remarkable record in 160 matches, Chahal’s experience and ability to deliver in crucial moments make him a valuable addition to Punjab’s bowling unit.
Conclusion
The first day of the IPL 2025 auction showcased the high stakes and strategic planning of franchises as they secured top Indian talent. Rishabh Pant’s record-breaking deal set the tone for an eventful auction, while players like Shreyas Iyer, Venkatesh Iyer, Arshdeep Singh, and Yuzvendra Chahal highlighted the value of Indian players in the league. With more action expected in the coming days, the stage is set for another thrilling IPL season.
