IPL 2025 Auction: Most Expensive Players List

The IPL 2025 auction, held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, was a landmark event in cricket history, setting records with astronomical bids for top players. The auction highlighted the increasing value of cricketing talent as franchises went all out to secure key players for the upcoming season.

Among the biggest stories, Rishabh Pant became the most expensive player in IPL history, fetching a staggering ₹27 crore from the Lucknow Super Giants. Other standout bids included Shreyas Iyer’s ₹26.75 crore and Arshdeep Singh’s ₹18 crore, showing how competitive the event was. Below, we detail the most expensive purchases of IPL 2025 auction and their significance.

Most Expensive Players in IPL 2025 Auction

1. Rishabh Pant – ₹27 Crore

• Team: Lucknow Super Giants
• Role: Batter

Rishabh Pant’s ₹27 crore bid by Lucknow Super Giants marked a new record in IPL auctions. The wicketkeeper-batsman has been a game-changer with his fearless batting and ability to finish games under pressure. Despite coming back from an extended injury layoff, his massive price tag reflects his unmatched potential and star power.

2. Shreyas Iyer – ₹26.75 Crore

• Team: Punjab Kings
• Role: Batter

Shreyas Iyer was another big winner, going for ₹26.75 crore to Punjab Kings. A proven match-winner and an exceptional leader, Iyer’s ability to hold the innings together while accelerating when needed made him one of the most sought-after players in the 2025 auction.

3. Arshdeep Singh – ₹18 Crore

• Team: Punjab Kings (RTM Card)
• Role: Bowler

The Punjab Kings used their Right to Match (RTM) card to retain Arshdeep Singh for ₹18 crore. His consistency in death bowling and knack for picking crucial wickets has made him one of the most reliable pacers in the IPL, justifying his high price.

4. Yuzvendra Chahal – ₹18 Crore

• Team: Punjab Kings
• Role: Bowler

The veteran leg-spinner added significant strength to Punjab Kings’ lineup. Known for his wicket-taking abilities in middle overs, Chahal’s ₹18 crore tag showcased the premium franchises place on experienced spinners.

5. Jos Buttler – ₹15.75 Crore

• Team: Gujarat Titans
• Role: Batter

Jos Buttler, the English wicketkeeper-batsman, was picked up by Gujarat Titans for ₹15.75 crore. With his record of explosive starts and adaptability across formats, Buttler continues to be a major draw in T20 leagues worldwide.

Other High-Profile Purchases

• KL Rahul (₹14 Crore): Picked by Delhi Capitals, Rahul’s consistency at the top order makes him a crucial asset for any team.
• Mitchell Starc (₹11.75 Crore): The Australian pacer joined Delhi Capitals, bolstering their bowling attack with his pace and accuracy.
• Mohammed Siraj (₹12.25 Crore): Gujarat Titans added Siraj to their squad, highlighting his growth as a top-tier bowler.
• Mohammed Shami (₹10 Crore): Sunrisers Hyderabad acquired Shami for his experience and ability to deliver in pressure situations.

Record-Breaking Bids Reflect Growing Competition

The IPL 2025 auction witnessed aggressive bidding wars, with teams sparing no expense for marquee players. Rishabh Pant’s ₹27 crore surpassed previous records, including Sam Curran’s ₹18.50 crore bid by Punjab Kings in IPL 2023. Shreyas Iyer’s near-record ₹26.75 crore further illustrated franchises’ focus on top-tier Indian talent.

Such high prices indicate not only the growing competitiveness of the IPL but also the league’s global appeal. Players like Pant, Iyer, and Buttler bring skills and leadership, making them indispensable assets.

How the Auction Unfolded

The IPL 2025 auction saw 577 players under the hammer, with franchises meticulously planning their bids. Despite the intense competition, many notable names, including David Warner and Jonny Bairstow, remained unsold in early rounds, adding suspense for fans and franchises alike.

FAQs

1. Who was the most expensive player in the IPL 2025 auction?

Rishabh Pant became the most expensive player, signed by Lucknow Super Giants for ₹27 crore.

2. Which team spent the most in the IPL 2025 auction?

Punjab Kings made multiple big purchases, including Shreyas Iyer (₹26.75 crore) and Arshdeep Singh (₹18 crore), spending heavily to build a strong squad.

3. Why did Rishabh Pant attract such a high bid?

Pant’s fearless batting style, ability to finish games, and leadership qualities made him a highly sought-after player in the auction.

4. Who was the most expensive overseas player in IPL 2025?

Jos Buttler was the most expensive overseas player, bought by Gujarat Titans for ₹15.75 crore.

5. Which Indian bowlers were the most expensive in the IPL 2025 auction?

Arshdeep Singh (₹18 crore by Punjab Kings) and Mohammed Siraj (₹12.25 crore by Gujarat Titans) were the top Indian bowlers.