IPL 2025 Auction Highlights: Rishabh Pant Leads Top Buys Over ₹10 Crore On Day 1

The opening day of the IPL 2025 Mega Auction was a thrilling spectacle, with teams fiercely competing to acquire top cricket talent for the upcoming season. This event highlighted not only the high value placed on players but also the strategic moves by franchises aiming to build winning teams.

In this intense auction, 19 players were sold for over ₹10 crore, showcasing the fierce bidding wars and the determination of teams to enhance their squads. The auction was a testament to the importance of strategic investments in creating a successful team combination.

Rishabh Pant emerged as the most expensive player of the day, with Lucknow Super Giants securing him for an astounding ₹27 crore. His explosive batting skills and leadership potential made him a top priority for many teams.

Shreyas Iyer was another significant acquisition, with Punjab Kings spending ₹26.75 crore to bring him on board. Known for his composure and ability to anchor innings, Iyer's addition is expected to strengthen their lineup significantly.

Kolkata Knight Riders re-signed Venkatesh Iyer for ₹23.75 crore after an intense bidding war. His recent performances have made him a valuable asset, placing him among the top four most expensive players in IPL history.

Punjab Kings made bold moves by acquiring three marquee players: Shreyas Iyer (₹26.75 crore), Arshdeep Singh (₹18 crore), and Yuzvendra Chahal (₹18 crore). Arshdeep is known for his death-over bowling skills, while Chahal is expected to bolster their spin attack.

Marcus Stoinis was also added to Punjab Kings' roster for ₹11 crore, providing depth in both batting and bowling departments. Chahal's acquisition marked a significant turnaround after a challenging year with the Indian team.

The Gujarat Titans focused on balancing their lineup with key signings like Jos Buttler (₹15.75 crore), Mohammed Siraj (₹12.25 crore), and Kagiso Rabada (₹10.75 crore). Buttler's power-hitting prowess and Siraj's pace will be crucial additions to their squad.

Delhi Capitals strengthened their team by acquiring KL Rahul for ₹14 crore and Mitchell Starc for ₹11.75 crore. Rahul is seen as a fantastic deal under current circumstances, while Starc will add depth to their bowling attack.

RCB invested heavily in three players: Josh Hazlewood (₹12.50 crore), Phil Salt (₹11.50 crore), and Jitesh Sharma (₹11 crore). Jitesh Sharma aims to boost their middle-order strength, while Phil Salt hopes to continue his impressive form from last season.

Ishan Kishan joined Sunrisers Hyderabad for ₹11.25 crore, marking a significant statement by the Orange Army with this young wicketkeeper-batsman acquisition. Mohammed Shami was another excellent addition at ₹10 crore.

The final player exceeding double-figure crores was Noor Ahmad, acquired by Chennai Super Kings for ₹10 crore. This rising Afghan spinner adds depth to their spin-heavy arsenal.

Complete List of Rs 10 Crore and Above Buys

The first day of the IPL 2025 Mega Auction set the stage for an exciting season ahead, with teams making strategic investments in key players to enhance their chances of success in the upcoming cycle.