Indian Premier League is a dream for all cricketers growing up. IPL Trophy is inscribed with Sanskrit shloka, “yatra pratibha avsara prapnotihi” which translates to “where talent gets opportunity”. The tournament offers an opportunity for over 200 players in each edition to showcase their skills and talent. In the upcoming IPL 2025 edition, there are opportunities for a lot of exciting newcomers to play and show the world what they are built of.
1. Vaibhav Suryavanshi
Vaibhav Suryavanshi, a 13-year-old cricket prodigy from Bihar, has created a massive buzz. Suryavanshi is the youngest player to have been picked for Indian Premier League. Born in Tajpur village on 27 March 2011, Vaibhav is blessed with enormous talent.
Vaibhav’s journey is another tale of hardships that is ultimately yielding fruits. The father of the budding cricket identified his potential early and sold his farm back home to support his passion for cricket.
The cricketer debuted in the Vinoo Mankad Trophy at the tender age of 12, scoring 400 runs in five matches. In January 2024, Vaibhav became the youngest Indian cricketer to make a first-class debut, playing for Bihar in the Ranji Trophy. At the time of FC debut, Vaibhav was just 12 years and 284 days old.
He grabbed eyeballs with a record-breaking 62-ball century in a youth Test against Australia. And, then came the IPL 2025 selection at just 13 when he was bagged by Rajasthan Royals for INR 1.1 crore. After a few weeks, he proved his mettle again in the U-19 Asia Cup and India U-19 and is now being touted as a future star of Indian cricket.
2. Musheer Khan
Musheer Khan has made a name for himself in the last couple of years, coming out of the shadow of his elder brother Sarfaraz Khan. Musheer grew up honing batting skills at Azad Maidan under the guidance of his father, Naushad Khan, a former cricketer.
At the 2024 U19 World Cup, Musheer was one of the shining lights for India racking up 360 runs. Add to that, seven wickets with his left-arm spin in the tournament proved what a valuable player he could be.
He didn’t stop there! The exploits continued in first-class cricket as Musheer smashed a double century for Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy 2024 quarter-final against Baroda.
3. Allah Ghazanfar
Allah Ghazanfar is another budding mystery spin bowler from Afghanistan. Eighteen-year-old secured a ₹4.8 crore contract with the Mumbai Indians for the IPL 2025 season. The teenage spinner caught eyeballs during the 2024 U19 World Cup, where he bamboozled batsmen with a wide range of tricks. Later in 2024, Ghazanfar added to his reputation at the Emerging Asia Cup with the ability to trouble top-order batters over the course of the tournament. Now that one of the biggest IPL franchises Mumbai Indians is backing him, sure he is one to watch out for in the future.
4. Gurjapneet Singh
Gurjapneet Singh is a tall fast bowler who has been bagged by Chennai Super Kings for a whopping INR 2.2 crore in the IPL 2025 auction. The Punjab bowler moved to Chennai at 17 and was primed for success. During TNPL, he has been mentored by Ravichandran Ashwin and Yo Mahesh playing for Dindigul Dragons.
He has been a net bowler for CSK in the previous edition of the Indian Premier League. CSK management has put a trust in him this time for his ability to swing the ball consistently, both with the new and old ball.
Jacob Bethell has already shown a glimpse of the cricketing talent he possesses in his short career with the England International side. Touted as the next white-ball star in England, Royal Challengers Bengaluru bagged 21-year-old Jacob Bethell for INR 2.6 crore in the IPL 2025 auction.
Bethell was impressive at the 2022 Under-19 World Cup and added to his repertoire in the following years at various levels.
Besides being a batting powerhouse, Bethell gives value to his side with accurate left-arm spin bowling and is a livewire on the field. Now, he will share the dressing room with modern masters like Virat Kohli and it may unlock all his potential in the coming years.
6. Eshan Malinga
Eshan Malinga is one of the most talked about young players from Sri Lanka. For the skill and potential Malinga possesses, the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) signed him for a significant sum.
ACC Men’s T20 Emerging Teams Asia Cup 2024 threw the Sri Lankan in the limelight. He continued to impress in the Lanka Premier League and Sri Lanka A program. We may get to see something special from the fast bowler who comes from the stable of Lasith Malinga.
7. Priyansh Arya
Priyansh Arya exploits in the inaugural Delhi Premier League earlier this year put him in the spotlight. Priyash sent social media into a frenzy by hitting six consecutive sixes in an over during his 120-run innings for South Delhi Superstarz. A few months later, the 23-year-old all-rounder was acquired by Punjab Kings for a staggering Rs 3.80 Crore.
Arya made sure to back DPL performances with a successful Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy campaign where he emerged as Delhi’s top run-scorer.
For sure, the upcoming Indian Premier League is poised to be a spectacle of cricketing skill and talent. Looking forward to these exciting young talents to burst onto the stage and showcase their potential.
Delhi Capitals beats CSK to get KL Rahul for INR 14 crore! KL Rahul, with a base price of ₹2 crore, ignited a bidding war. KKR and RCB pushed the bid past ₹10 crore before backing out. Delhi Capitals and CSK then entered the fray, with the final bid soaring to ₹14 crore. LSG chose not to use their RTM, allowing Delhi Capitals to secure Rahul for IPL 2025.
Rahul ka naam bhi suna hai aur khel bhi dekha hai 😎
Royal Challengers Bengaluru sign Liam Livingstone for Rs 8.75 crore
Mohammed Siraj SOLD to GT for 12.25 Crore! RCB don’t use the RTM for Mohammed Siraj. GT’s bowling attack now has Rashid Khan, Kagiso Rabada and Mohammed Siraj
PBKS get Yuzvendra Chahal for 18 crore! PBKS – with the biggest auction purse at the start – had spent 18 crore for Arshdeep and 26.75 for Shreays Iyer already.
David Miller is Lucknow Super Giants Player! Sold for INR 7.5 Crore
Mohammad Shami goes to Sunrisers Hyderabad for INR 10 Crore. Mohammed Shami, with a base price of ₹2 crore, sparked a competitive bidding war. KKR and CSK battled initially, followed by LSG raising the bid to ₹8.50 crore. KKR eventually bid ₹9.75 crore before SRH swooped in at ₹10 crore. Gujarat Titans chose not to use their RTM, securing Shami’s move to Sunrisers Hyderabad for ₹10 crore.
Rishabh Pant becomes the most expensive player in IPL with 27cr!! The wicket-keeper batsman breaks the record that Shreyas Iyer had set earlier in the set.
Mitchell Starc goes to Delhi Capitals for 11.75 Crore. Mitchell Starc entered the auction with a base price of ₹2 crore, triggering intense bidding. MI and KKR began the duel, with DC later entering to raise the stakes. The bid soared past ₹10 crore, with RCB stepping in briefly. DC eventually reclaimed the lead at ₹11.75 crore, sealing the deal for Starc. Despite his stellar performances in IPL 2024, the price marked a pay cut for the left-arm pacer. Starc will now play for Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025.
FIRST BUY OF THE AUCTION 👌 #WelcomeToDilli, Mitchell Starc ⚡️
SHREYAS IYER has been sold to Punjab Kings for 26.75 crores. Shreyas Iyer shattered records at the IPL 2025 Auction, becoming the most expensive player ever. Starting with a base price of ₹2 crore, intense bidding between PBKS, KKR, and DC saw the price soar past ₹25 crore. PBKS finally secured Iyer for a staggering ₹26.75 crore, marking a historic moment. The proven IPL-winning captain will now lead Punjab Kings, bringing both leadership and batting strength to the franchise.
𝙃𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙞𝙘 𝙎𝙞𝙜𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙐𝙣𝙡𝙤𝙘𝙠𝙚𝙙 🔓
Say hello 👋 to the 𝙈𝙤𝙨𝙩 𝙀𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙨𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙋𝙡𝙖𝙮𝙚𝙧 in the history of #TATAIPL 🔝
SHREYAS IYER BECOMES THE MOST EXPENSIVE INDIAN PLAYER IN IPL HISTORY!!! An EPIC bidding war for Shreyas Iyer as DD and PBKS break the IPL’s record bid!
GT snap Kagiso Rabada for 10.75 Crore Kagiso Rabada attracted bids starting at ₹2 crore, with RCB and GT locked in a heated contest. The price surged past ₹8 crore before RCB tapped out, leaving Gujarat Titans to secure the South African pacer for ₹10.75 crore. Although MI showed interest early on, they exited midway. PBKS, holding an RTM option, opted not to retain Rabada. The experienced bowler will now join the Titans, strengthening their pace attack for IPL 2025.
PBKS excercise RTM to get Arshdeep Singh back for IPL 2025! Arshdeep Singh, with a base price of ₹2 crore, ignited a fierce bidding war. CSK and DC opened the battle, followed by GT and RCB driving the price up to ₹10.75 crore. Rajasthan Royals and SRH entered next, pushing it to ₹15.75 crore. SRH looked set to secure him, but PBKS used their RTM option to bring back Arshdeep for a whopping ₹18 crore. The left-arm seamer will continue to strengthen PBKS’s bowling arsenal in IPL 2025.
Set M1: Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer, Jos Buttler, Arshdeep Singh, Kagiso Rabada, Mitchell Starc Set M2: KL Rahul, Yuzvendra Chahal, Liam Livingstone, David Miller, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj.
IPL Mega Auction 2025 is scheduled for 24 November and 25November in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia,
In this two-day event, all 10 IPL teams would look to rebuild squads not just for IPL 2025 but for the next three IPL seasons.
With several high-profile names up for grabs and RTM cards to exercise, the action would be nothing short of exciting.
Date: November 24 and 25, 2024
Time:
Local Time: 1 PM to 8 PM
Indian Standard Time: 3:30 PM to 10:30 PM IST
Live Streaming: Available on Jio Cinema, Viacom18 and Star Sports.
IPL Auction Player List 2025
The IPL Mega Auction happens every three years and reshapes team rosters. With stars like Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, Mitchell Starc, and Shreyas Iyer in the mix, it will be the biggest auction ever. Check How is mega auction different from a mini auction
The auction will begin with marquee sets wherein sought-after players will go under the hammer first.
Set M1: Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer, Jos Buttler, Arshdeep Singh, Kagiso Rabada, Mitchell Starc.
Set M2: KL Rahul, Yuzvendra Chahal, Liam Livingstone, David Miller, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj.
The player pool for IPL Mega Auction 2025 consists of 577 players. Here’s the breakdown
Indian Players: 367
Overseas Players: 210
Available Slots: 204 (70 for overseas players)
What are the reserve price categories for the IPL 2025 Mega Auction?
Players have registered under various reserve price categories:
Reserve Price (INR)
No. of Players
2 Crore
82
1.5 Crore
27
1.25 Crore
18
1 Crore
23
75 Lakh
92
50 Lakh
8
40 Lakh
5
30 Lakh
320
To save time, there will be an accelerated auction process and the auction list will be trimmed based on the interest of franchises. Check Players Who Will Skip IPL Mega Auction 2025
Mega IPL Auction 2025 will unfold in this order
Marquee Players: Two sets featuring high-profile players will be up for grabs first.
Capped Players: After marquees, capped players will go under the hammer. These will be categorized by roles like batters, bowlers, all-rounders and wicket-keepers.
Uncapped Players: The last will be uncapped players.
Accelerated Auction: Thereafter, franchise-nominated players will go under the hammer after the first 116 players are auctioned.
To check the Complete List of Players to go under the hammer, click here.
What’s New in IPL 2025?
Right-to-Match Cards (RTM)
RTM is what makes this IPL Mega Auction even more exciting! RTM rules have been revised this time around. Now, the teams can match the winning bid and then raise the bid without restrictions.
Teams
No. of RTMs Available
Type of player
CSK
1
Any
DC
2
1 uncapped & 1 capped, or both capped)
RCB
3
3 (1 uncapped & 2 capped players, or 3 capped)
LSG
1
Capped
PBKS
4
Capped
MI
1
Uncapped
SRH
1
Uncapped
GT
1
Capped
Retention Rules
This year, teams were given a choice to retain up to 6 players using RTM cards or direct retention. A maximum of 5 capped and 2 uncapped players can be retained.
Auction Purse for All 10 Teams
Team
Retained Players
Purse Spent (INR)
Purse Available (INR)
CSK
5
65
55
DC
4
47
73
GT
5
51
69
KKR
6
69
51
LSG
5
51
69
MI
5
75
45
PBKS
2
9.5
110.5
RCB
3
37
83
RR
6
79
41
SRH
5
75
45
IPL Auction 2025 RCB Players List
To be updated
RCB Retained Players 2025
RCB has retained three players – Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar and Yash Dayal – spending INR 37 crores.
Player
Salary (INR)
Virat Kohli
21 Crore
Rajat Patidar
11 Crore
Yash Dayal
5 Crore
IPL Auction 2025 KKR Players List
To be updated
KKR Retained Players 2025
KKR has retained six players –Rinku Singh, Varun Chakravarthy, Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Harshit Rana and Ramandeep Singh – spending a total of INR 69 crores.
Player
Salary (INR)
Rinku Singh
13 Crore
Varun Chakaravarthy
12 Crore
Sunil Narine
12 Crore
Andre Russell
12 Crore
Harshit Rana
4 Crore
Ramandeep Singh
4 Crore
CSK Players Retained 2025
Player
Salary (INR)
Ruturaj Gaikwad
18 Crore
Matheesha Pathirana
13 Crore
Shivam Dube
12 Crore
Ravindra Jadeja
18 Crore
MS Dhoni
4 Crore
SRH Retained Players 2025
Sunrisers Hyderabad have retained their captain Pat Cummins for IPL 2025. The opening combination of Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head, middle order bat and keeper Heinrich Klaasen, and all-rounder Nitish Reddy are among others retained.
Player
Salary (INR)
Pat Cummins
18 Crore
Abhishek Sharma
14 Crore
Nitish Kumar Reddy
6 Crore
Travis Head
14 Crore
Heinrich Klaasen
23 Crore
PBKS Retained Players 2025
PBKS has retained two players – Prabhsimran Singh and Shashank Singh – spending a total of INR 9.5 crores from the auction purse.
Player
Salary (INR)
Shashank Singh
5.50 Crore
Prabhsimran Singh
4 Crore
RR Retained Players 2025
RR has retained six players – Sanju Samson, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Shimron Hetmyer, and Sandeep Sharma – spending a total of INR 79 crores from the auction purse.
Player
Salary (INR)
Sanju Samson
18 Crore
Yashasvi Jaiswal
18 Crore
Riyan Parag
14 Crore
Dhruv Jurel
14 Crore
Shimron Hetmyer
11 Crore
Sandeep Sharma
4 Crore
MI Retained Players 2025
Player
Salary (INR)
Jasprit Bumrah
18 Crore
Suryakumar Yadav
16.35 Crore
Hardik Pandya
16.35 Crore
Rohit Sharma
16.30 Crore
Tilak Varma
8 Crore
GT Retained Players 2025
GT has retained five players – Rashid Khan, Shubman Gill, Sai Sudarsan, Rahul Tewatia, and Shahrukh Khan – spending a total of INR 51 crores from the auction purse.
Player
Salary (INR)
Rashid Khan
18 Crore
Shubman Gill
16.50 Crore
Sai Sudharsan
8.50 Crore
Rahul Tewatia
4 Crore
Shahrukh Khan
4 Crore
LSG Retained Players 2025
LSG has retained five players – Nicholas Pooran, Ravi Bishnoi, Mayank Yadav, Mohsin Khan, and Ayush Badoni – spending a total of INR 51 crores from the auction purse.
Player
Salary (INR)
Nicholas Pooran
21 Crore
Ravi Bishnoi
11 Crore
Mayank Yadav
11 Crore
Mohsin Khan
4 Crore
Ayush Badoni
4 Crore
DC Retained Players 2025
DC has retained four players – Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Tristan Stubbs, and Abhishek Porel – spending a total of INR 47 crores from the auction purse.
Player
Salary (INR)
Axar Patel
16.50 Crore
Kuldeep Yadav
13.25 Crore
Tristan Stubbs
10 Crore
Abhishek Porel
4 Crore
Stay tuned for real-time IPL 2025 Mega Auction updates and analysis as it unfolds.
Punjab Kings (PBKS) are building the side from scratch after the least retentions for any team ahead of the IPL 2025 Auction. However, they have the biggest purse and four RTM cards (the most for any team) which presents an excellent opportunity to put together a strong IPL 2025 squad.
Here’s a possible IPL Auction Punjab Kings strategy and five players PBKS could target.
1. Sam Curran
Sam Curran was the stand-in skipper of PBKS in the last IPL edition. Since Punjab has a lot of RTM card options, one of the most sought-after all-rounders in the auction pool may head back to Punjab Kings. If not in the leadership role, the England all-rounder still has a lot to offer.
Kagiso Rabada is a proven match-winner in the IPL over the years. The knack for picking wickets at regular intervals – whether with the new ball, in middle overs, or at the death – makes him such a rare commodity. With his RTM card, Punjab Kings will have a bowling spearhead in their ranks.
Liam Livingstone is one of the most destructive T20 batsmen. There are not many players in the auction pool who offer power-hitting like his in the middle-overs of the game. Plus, he is an ambidextrous handy bowler. His RTM card would allow PBKS to plug a crucial gap.
Liam Livingstone IPL Stats
Matches
Runs
Highest Score
Batting Average
Wickets
Best Figures
39
939
94
28.45
11
3/27
4. Jonny Bairstow
Jonny Bairstow’s ultra-aggressive at the top of the batting order worked well for PBKS in the last season of the Indian Premier League. He can be the second wicket-keeping option after retaining Prabhsimaran Singh. PBKS can retain him for sure.
Jonny Bairstow IPL Stats
Matches
Runs
Highest Score
Batting Average
100s
50
1589
114
34.54
2
5. Ashutosh Sharma
Ashutosh Sharma took the cricketing world by storm in the last season with PBKS. For an Indian batsman to possess such a calm head and strong finishing skills is rare and that’s why Punjab Kings will think about getting him back.
Ashutosh Sharma IPL Stats
Matches
Strike Rate
Runs
Highest Score
Batting Average
Sixes
11
167.25
189
61
27.00
15
Punjab Kings have a lot to do on auction days. Punjab fans will be hoping that they use RTM cards wisely and on players who can make an impact in the upcoming 2025 IPL season.
PBKS has spent 9.5 crores out of the 120 crore IPL salary cap to retain two players ahead of the Mega Auction. They are now left with 110.5 crores in auction purse and four RTM cards.
Team
Retained Players
Purse Spent (INR)
Purse Available (INR)
CSK
5
65
55
DC
4
47
73
GT
5
51
69
KKR
6
69
51
LSG
5
51
69
MI
5
75
45
PBKS
2
9.5
110.5
RCB
3
37
83
RR
6
79
41
SRH
5
75
45
PBKS Retained Players ahead of IPL Mega Auction
PBKS has retained two players – Prabhsimran Singh and Shashank Singh – spending a total of INR 9.5 crores from the auction purse.
The IPL auction for the 2025 IPL season is two days from now. Delhi Capitals (DC) have already made some major managerial changes, with Rishabh Pant and coach Ricky Ponting no longer running things. DC would look to make strategic decisions to bolster its squad for the forthcoming Indian Premier League edition. Here’s a possible IPL Auction Delhi Capitals strategy and five players who they could target.
1. Jake Fraser-McGurk
We witnessed Jake Fraser-McGurk’s explosive batting at the top of the batting order last year. Maybe the Australian batter wanted to go to the auction pool because of the price tag. Since DC has an RTM (Right to Match) card option up its sleeve, McGurk may possibly head back to the Delhi IPL Team.
Mitchell Marsh is another Delhi Capitals player who is a strong contender for the RTM option. First, the Australian T20 captain gives power at the top of the batting order. Second, he is captain material, and DC is looking for one. Third, he has proved his worth with the ball and gives balance to the side.
Mitchell Marsh IPL Stats
Matches
Runs
Highest Score
Wickets
Best Figures
5-fer
42
665
89
37
4/25
0
3. Mohammed Shami
After retentions, Delhi Capitals are short on Indian fast bowler stocks. Mohammed Shami is up for grabs and DC can look at him as their bowling leader. The experienced wicket-taker fits the bill for the Delhi IPL team.
Khaleel Ahmed was among the best bowlers in the DC ranks in the last season of the Indian Premier League. His release has come as a surprise to many but there is still a chance that DC will repurchase him with one of the two RTM card options they possess.
Khaleel Ahmed IPL Stats
Matches
Wickets
Best Figures
Bowling Average
5-fer
57
74
3/21
25.41
0
5. Mukesh Kumar
Mukesh Kumar is another who will be on Delhi Capitals’ radar. He has raised his bowling stocks with superb performances in the 2024 edition. If not Khaleel Ahmed, Mukesh Kumar is an RTM option that DC can exercise.
Matches
Wickets
Best Figures
Bowling Average
5-fer
20
24
3/14
28.91
0
Delhi Capitals have decided on an overhaul and IPL 2025 Mega Auction will be crucial for the side. If they are able to pull off most of the aforementioned acquisitions, they will be in a comfortable position to look forward to the 2025 edition.
DC has spent 47 crores out of the 120 crore IPL salary cap to retain four players. They are now left with a 73 crores auction purse for the mega IPL 2025 auction and two RTM cards.
Team
Retained Players
Purse Spent (INR)
Purse Available (INR)
CSK
5
65
55
DC
4
47
73
GT
5
51
69
KKR
6
69
51
LSG
5
51
69
MI
5
75
45
PBKS
2
9.5
110.5
RCB
3
37
83
RR
6
79
41
SRH
5
75
45
DC Retained Players ahead of IPL Mega Auction
DC has retained four players – Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Tristan Stubbs, and Abhishek Porel – spending a total of INR 47 crores from the auction purse.
The excitement for IPL 2025 is building, and each team is making plans for IPL Auction 2025. Gujarat Titans have several gaps to fill in their squad. Fans are looking forward to GT think-tank to bolster IPL 2025 squad with explosive talent. Here’s a look at IPL Auction Gujarat Titans strategy and potential targets.
1. Ishan Kishan
Gujarat Titans are a little short on power at the top of the order and they would look to plug the gap with an aggressive wicket-keeper batsman like Ishan Kishan. The pocket dynamo also has a strong chemistry with Shubman Gill, and the two would form an incredible opening pair.
GT is on the lookout for a power hitter in the middle order, and who is better than Glenn Maxwell among those in the auction pool. This was another key area where Gujarat IPL Team lacked last season and it won’t be a surprise if they go for spin-basher and proven middle-order enforcer in Glenn Maxwell.
Glenn Maxwell IPL Stats
Matches
Runs
Highest Score
Batting Average
100
Wickets
134
2771
95
24.74
0
37
3. Sam Curran
Sam Curran could once again attract a hefty price tag at the IPL auction. Gujarat Titans can make a bid for the England all-rounder since they are looking for impactful overseas talent.
India’s premier wicket-taking fast bowler will be on the radar of most franchises for the rare left-arm swing skill he has. GT captain Shubman Gill may ask the think-tank to prioritize Punjab-teammate Arshdeep Singh’s acquisition.
Arshdeep Singh IPL Stats
Matches
Wickets
Best Figures
Bowling Average
5-fer
65
76
5/32
27.00
1
5. Kagiso Rabada
Wicket-taking overseas fast bowler is another role Gujarat Titans will look at. With spotlight on the likes of Mitchell Starc, Marco Jansen and Trent Boult, GT may target the South African quick KG who is a proven match-winner and a wicket-taking machine.
Kagiso Rabada IPL Stats
Matches
Wickets
Best Figures
Bowling Average
5-fer
80
117
4/21
21.96
0
If Gujarat Titans are able execute these acquisitions or manage to fill these crucial gaps, they’d be more than happy and would look strong as a unit to vie for another Indian Premier League title.
GT IPL 2025 Auction Purse
GT have spent 51 crores out of 120 crore IPL salary cap this edition on retention of five players. They are now left with a 69 crores auction purse for the mega IPL auction.
GT Retained Players ahead of Mega IPL 2025 Auction
GT has retained five players – Rashid Khan, Shubman Gill, Sai Sudarsan, Rahul Tewatia and Shahrukh Khan – spending a total of INR 51 crores from the auction purse.
KL Rahul-Goenka’s fiasco is still fresh in cricket fans’ memory but it’s time to move on. Now that IPL Auction 2025 is around the corner, it is a new start for Lucknow Super Giants. While they have announced retentions for IPL 2025 and Nicholas Pooran as the next captain, there are still key gaps that the side must look to fill at the Mega Auction on 24 November.
1. Phil Salt
One of the foremost concerns for LSG in the last edition was aggression and intent at the top of the batting order. They would look to rope in someone like Phil Salt who is fearless and in red-hot form. If they are able to get Salt, flying starts are guaranteed.
LSG is looking for not one but two opening batsmen and one could be an Indian batsman. Venkatesh Iyer fits the bill the best among those available in the auction pool. Besides stability and aggression, he also gives the option of handy bowling.
Venkatesh Iyer IPL Stats
Matches
Runs
Highest Score
Batting Average
Centuries
51
1326
104
31.57
1
3. Marcus Stoinis
Marcus Stoinis should be LSG’s go-to pick for the Right to Match (RTM) card. Alongside Nicholas Pooran, Marcus Stoinis would ensure that there is no dearth of power in the middle order for the Lucknow IPL Team. And, the bowling option the Australian offers is a bonus!
LSG’s bowling attack would look formidable with the addition of New Zealand’s Trent Boult. The left-arm pacer has made himself a reputation as a powerplay wrecker. Lucknow is on the lookout for someone who can get wickets with the new ball, and Trent Boult is an ideal choice.
Death bowling is another key area LSG think-tank would look to address at the IPL auction 2025. Harshal Patel’s cricket smarts and knack for death bowling wickets would add immense value to Lucknow’s bowling lineup.
Harshal Patel IPL Stats
Matches
Wickets
Best Figures
Bowling Average
5-Wicket Hauls
106
135
5/27
23.32
1
With these acquisitions, LSG would be able to fill major gaps in its first lineup. All eyes are on LSG now to see how they would execute strategies during the auction of IPL 2025.
LSG has spent 51 crores out of the 120 crore IPL salary cap this edition for retaining five players. They are now left with a 69 crores auction purse for the mega IPL 2025 auction.
Team
Retained Players
Purse Spent (INR)
Purse Available (INR)
CSK
5
65
55
DC
4
47
73
GT
5
51
69
KKR
6
69
51
LSG
5
51
69
MI
5
75
45
PBKS
2
9.5
110.5
RCB
3
37
83
RR
6
79
41
SRH
5
75
45
LSG Retained Players ahead of Mega IPL 2025 Auction
LSG has retained five players – Nicholas Pooran, Ravi Bishnoi, Mayank Yadav, Mohsin Khan, and Ayush Badoni – spending a total of INR 51 crores from the auction purse.
Arguably the biggest name in the auction pool, Rishabh Pant will certainly attract interest from all 10 franchises during the IPL Auction 2025. It was a real shock when Delhi Capitals (DC) and Pant decided to part ways, with the player deciding to go to the auction. A player of his stature, considering the relatively young age, is like a gold dust. No matter how heavily a team is stocked with talent, there’s always a spot for a player like Pant in any playing 11.
IPL Auction 2025: 3 Likely destinations for Rishabh Pant
Signing Pant could be a game changer for any team. He is the sort of player and is at an age where franchises can build teams around him. Here’s a list of 3 teams we think will go with all their power to sign him during the IPL Auction 2025.
1. Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
Chennai Super Kings have all the reasons in the world to go all in for Rishabh Pant. MS Dhoni is almost the end of his IPL career, and Rishabh Pant is perhaps the most ideal candidate to take over the wicket-keeping duties from the legendary former Indian captain. Pant could also be a future captain of this franchise if the management look for another option. Pant fits all the bill at Chennai Super Kings – an Indian player, with a big profile who is a proven talent at the world stage.
Probability of CSK signing Rishabh Pant – 80-90%.
Chennai Super Kings’ Reasons to sign Rishabh Pant:
For reasons unknown, DC failed to retain Rishabh Pant. But despite the player going to the auction, DC will still have upper hand. For the Delhi outfit have two Right To Match (RTM) cards, which they can exercise if the right opportunity arises.
But the biggest reason for Delhi Capitals to sign Rishabh Pant is that he is their former player and captain. At 27, he is still a young player and will reach his peak in the coming years. When the franchises are shelling out big amount on players such as Pat Cummins or Heinrich Klaasen, who SRH retained for INR 23 crores, Pant demands big amount and DC will be carrying a good purse into the auction.
Delhi Capitals’ reasons to sign Rishabh Pant:
Former Player
Big Name
Fan-Favorite
3. Mumbai Indians
It’s still a shock that Ishan Kishan’s name is missing from the list of Mumbai Indians’ retained players, which includes Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Rohit Sharma, and Tilak Varma. The fact that MI decided not to retain Ishan but opted for Tilak suggests that the five-time IPL champions may have another option for the wicket-keeping position. With no disrespect to Ishan Kishan, Pant is a player in a completely different league. His signing could instantly make the Mumbai Indians favorites for the IPL 2025 title.
As the date for the Mega IPL 2025 Auction draws closer, anticipation is soaring high. Big names players and an improved budget for franchises, this upcoming auction has all the ingredients to surprise one and all. There will definitely be players who are likely to go unsold, while some players are expected to start a bidding war. One such player who is expected to garner significant interest when his name pops out of the auction hat is Shreyas Iyer. Being an experienced player with an Indian nationality is a sought-after combination. Iyer showed last season that he is a captaincy material after guiding the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to a title in IPL 2024.
Mega 2025 IPL Auction
With so much caliber as a player and as captain, teams will leave no stone unturned in signing him. Here are three teams who could shell out big money for his services.
1. Kolkata Knight Riders
Let’s be honest, Kolkata Knight Riders may have made a mistake in allowing Shreyas Iyer to go to the auction. His calm and composed nature was a significant factor in KKR’s surprising title win in IPL 2024. Moreover, KKR don’t have any RTM card left, meaning, they will have the same power as any other team when bidding for Iyer. But all this could be a part of a bigger strategy by KKR administration. Had they retained Iyer, it might have cost them around 16-18 crores, and KKR might sign him for less, if not for the same amount during the Mega IPL 2025 Auction.
Probability of KKR signing back Shreyas Iyer – 70-80%.
With Shikhar Dhawan announcing retirement from all forms of the game, Punjab Kings need a player who can lead them for the next five to six seasons. Iyer is still young and is a top-quality player who can mould his game depending on the situation. PBKS could also do with a big-name player in their squad. There haven’t been many marquee Indian players in their team in the last few seasons. Shreyas Iyer fits the bill. He is someone who can take PBKS to newer heights.
Probability of PBKS signing Shreyas Iyer – 40-50%.
PBKS’ Reasons:
Vacant captaincy spot
In need of a big-name Indian player
3. Lucknow Super Giants
Lucknow Super Giants also have good and solid reasons to go all in for Shreyas Iyer in Mega 2025 IPL Auction. The biggest reason is the departure of KL Rahul, who in all probability, is not coming back to the franchise even with the RTM card. Shreyas Iyer is in the same mold as KL Rahul and proved last season that he has the temperament to lead the team to a title.
Rajasthan Royals came so close to winning the Indian Premier League title in recent years with strong performances. RR would look to cross the line this time around. The first step begins at the Mega IPL 2025 Auction where they bolster their squad by filling crucial gaps. Here are the possible IPL Auction Rajasthan Royals’ strategy and targets for the upcoming 2025 IPL edition.
1. Jos Buttler
Jos Buttler expressed the desire to play for RR again after being released. The love affair might continue as think tank might go after the wicket-keeper opening batsman again at the auction. After all, the Englishman brings immense value to the Rajasthan IPL team.
Like Jos Buttler, Yuzvendra Chahal seems to have found a home at Rajasthan Royals. We might see him return to don Pink Jersey since the franchise doesn’t have a frontline spin bowling option and can bid hard for him.
Yuzvendra Chahal IPL Stats
Matches
Wickets
Best Figures
Bowling Average
5-fer
160
205
5/40
22.44
1
3. Mitchell Starc
Mitchell Starc is an out-and-out fast bowler and a dream bowler for any T20 side. RR would look to acquire a premier and proven overseas bowler. Is there anybody better than Starc among those in the auction pool?
Mohammad Shami would be on the radar of most teams, RR being one of those franchises. The Indian fast bowler may be returning from injury but is a proven wicket-taker and bowling spearhead. This addition would be a game-changer and invaluable for the RR setup.
Adam Zampa is one of the best white-ball spin bowlers going around. If not Yuzi Chahal, Rajasthan Royals can try to get the services of the Australian spin bowler for IPL 2025.
Adam Zampa IPL Stats
Matches
Wickets
Best Bowling
Bowling Average
5-Wicket Hauls
20
29
6/19
19.24
1
If RR is able to acquire a couple of these or maybe more, RR fans will be jumping with joy. It would mean so much for the squad balance. Hope RR is able to build the dream team for the upcoming season.
RR has spent 79 crores out of 120 crore IPL salary cap this edition to retain six players. They are now left with 41 crores in auction purse for mega auction buys.
Team
Retained Players
Purse Spent (INR)
Purse Available (INR)
CSK
5
65
55
DC
4
47
73
GT
5
51
69
KKR
6
69
51
LSG
5
51
69
MI
5
75
45
PBKS
2
9.5
110.5
RCB
3
37
83
RR
6
79
41
SRH
5
75
45
RR Retained Players ahead of Mega IPL 2025 Auction
RR has retained six players – Sanju Samson, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Shimron Hetmyer, and Sandeep Sharma – spending a total of INR 79 crores from the auction purse.
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) was one of the standout teams in the last edition of the Indian Premier League. It was a shame they couldn’t go on to win the trophy but this could very well be the season. At the 2025 mega auction, SRH would want to fill the gaps after five retentions. Here’s a look at the possible IPL Auction Sunrisers Hyderabad strategy and five potential targets.
1. Shreyas Iyer
SRH is after an Indian middle-order batsman who can bat #3. The most reliable and sought-after player with these criteria is indeed Shreyas Iyer. He can also play anchor to complement the ultra-aggressive batting lineup featuring Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, and Heinrich Klaasen.
Shreyas Iyer IPL Stats
Matches
Runs
Highest Score
Batting Average
100s
116
3127
96
32.23
0
2. Marco Jansen
Letting go of Marco Jansen would be quite tough for the Hyderabad IPL Team. They would love to have the tall fast bowler back who has now made a reputation for himself as an explosive all-rounder.
Sunrisers Hyderabad are looking for a quality spin bowler with a knack for taking wickets. Wanindu Hasaranga is an ideal choice and gives extra cushion to the batting lower down the order.
Wanindu Hasaranga IPL Stats
Matches
Wickets
Best Figures
Bowling Average
5-fer
26
35
5/18
21.37
1
4. Mohammad Siraj
If not Marco Jansen, they would target someone like Mohammad Siraj who can bowl with the new ball. Pat Cummins would love to have Siraj who has been an all-format bowler for India. And, after all the think tank would have a soft corner for the local boy!
Mohammad Siraj IPL Stats
Matches
Wickets
Best Bowling
Bowling Average
5-Wicket Hauls
93
93
4/21
30.34
0
5. Venkatesh Iyer
Another aggressive #3 option is Venkatesh Iyer and alternative to Shreyas Iyer. Venky Iyer has had a fab season last year with champs KKR. He will be a hot choice for the one-down batting role for SRH.
Venkatesh Iyer IPL Stats
Matches
Runs
Highest Score
Batting Average
Centuries
51
1326
104
31.57
1
With these targets, Sunrisers Hyderabad will have a formidable and sorted batting order for IPL 2025. And, the bowling options will make the SRH squad look menacing and one of the best for the forthcoming season. Let’s see if SRH can snap these players on Auction day.
SRH has spent 75 crores out of the 120 crore IPL salary cap this edition for retaining five players. They are now left with a 45 crores auction purse to make additions at the mega auction.
Team
Retained Players
Purse Spent (INR)
Purse Available (INR)
CSK
5
65
55
DC
4
47
73
GT
5
51
69
KKR
6
69
51
LSG
5
51
69
MI
5
75
45
PBKS
2
9.5
110.5
RCB
3
37
83
RR
6
79
41
SRH
5
75
45
SRH Retained Players ahead of Mega IPL 2025 Auction
Sunrisers Hyderabad have retained their captain Pat Cummins for IPL 2025. The opening combination of Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head, middle order bat and keeper Heinrich Klaasen, and all-rounder Nitish Reddy are among others who have been retained.