In a historic moment for cricket enthusiasts worldwide, the Kolkata Knight Riders made headlines by securing the services of Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc for an unprecedented sum of Rs 24.75 crore during last season’s Indian Premier League (IPL) auction. This whopping figure not only highlighted Starc’s prowess on the cricket field but also etched his name in the annals of IPL history as the most expensive player ever bought in the tournament. However, as the cricketing community gears up for the upcoming mega auction later this month, there is speculation that this record might soon be shattered.
The upcoming auction is poised to be a riveting affair, especially with the auction purse per team increased to a generous Rs 120 crore, allowing teams greater latitude to secure top-tier talent. The Punjab Kings (PBKS) are entering this auction with the largest available purse, a massive Rs 110.5 crore, thus positioning them as formidable contenders in the bidding wars. With such ample financial resources, the likelihood of Mitchell Starc’s record being overtaken is substantial.
As anticipation swells, three players, in particular, have caught the attention of cricket analysts and fans alike as potential record-breakers in the IPL 2025 auction:
1. **Rishabh Pant**
Rishabh Pant, the dynamic Indian wicketkeeper-batsman, stands out as one of the most coveted players entering this year’s auction. Recently released by the Delhi Capitals, Pant is sure to ignite aggressive bidding from multiple franchises. The Punjab Kings might make a compelling attempt to secure his services under the new direction of head coach Ricky Ponting. Given their past collaboration within the Delhi team, the potential synergy between Pant and Ponting could be a game-changer for PBKS, especially in pursuit of their maiden IPL trophy. Concurrently, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), too, may capitalize on the opportunity to anchor Pant in their middle order, further enhancing his auction value.
2. **Ishan Kishan**
The left-handed wicketkeeper-batsman Ishan Kishan, who previously represented the Mumbai Indians with distinction, having been contracted for an impressive Rs 15.
.25 crore post-IPL 2022, enters this auction as a free agent. With his explosive batting style, ability to open the innings, and proficiency behind the stumps, Kishan presents a highly attractive package for any franchise. At just 26 years of age, he embodies long-term potential, making him a viable investment for teams aiming to build a sustainable future. The market demand for quality wicketkeepers is set to escalate his final bid considerably, possibly nearing or surpassing the 25-crore threshold. Notably, both PBKS and RCB are likely to be frontrunners in the bidding frenzy for Kishan, with the possibility of Mumbai Indians renewing their interest as well.
3. **Jos Buttler**
Another intriguing prospect is England’s T20 World Cup-winning captain, Jos Buttler, unexpectedly released by the Rajasthan Royals. Despite being 34, Buttler offers tremendous value, combining leadership, wicketkeeping, and high-impact opening batting. His stellar IPL track record, underscored by seven centuries and 3582 runs across 106 innings, substantiates his claim as a cornerstone player in any team. Despite recent fluctuations in form, Buttler’s vast experience and skill set remain attractive to franchises eager to bolster their lineup. Consequently, several teams might opt to intensify bidding efforts to secure this seasoned cricketer.
As the clock ticks down to the auction, teams will undoubtedly strategize meticulously to optimize their rosters within the allotted budget. The quest to potentially dethrone Starc as the most expensive player in IPL history adds an intriguing dimension to this high-stakes spectacle. With players of the caliber of Pant, Kishan, and Buttler up for grabs, the auction promises not just fanfare but a redefinition of value in the ever-evolving world of IPL cricket. Whether any player’s final price will eclipse the record fee remains to be seen, but the prospects surely make for an enthralling narrative in this edition of the IPL auction.
