In a historic moment at the IPL 2025 auction, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) shattered records by securing India’s star wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant for a staggering ₹27 crore. This acquisition not only made Pant the most expensive player in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL) but also highlighted the growing demand for marquee players in the world’s most lucrative cricket league.
Rishabh Pant’s Record-Breaking Bid
The Lucknow Super Giants, known for their aggressive bidding strategies, outbid several franchises in a fierce battle to secure Pant. The wicketkeeper-batter, renowned for his explosive batting and match-winning abilities, is expected to bring unparalleled firepower and leadership to LSG.
Having missed IPL 2024 due to injury, Pant’s return to the auction pool ignited significant interest. His ability to single-handedly change the course of a game, combined with his leadership experience as Delhi Capitals’ former captain, made him a prime target.
Pant’s ₹27 crore tag surpassed the previous record held by Sam Curran, who was picked for ₹18.5 crore in the 2023 auction.
Shreyas Iyer: Another Big Name
Closely following Pant was India’s stylish batter and former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain Shreyas Iyer, who was acquired by Punjab Kings for ₹26.75 crore. Iyer’s consistency in the middle order and his ability to anchor innings made him a hot property in this year’s auction. Punjab Kings, aiming for a fresh start after a disappointing 2024 season, invested heavily in Iyer to strengthen their squad.
Auction Highlights
The 2025 IPL auction was marked by record-breaking bids, reflecting the franchises’ intent to secure top-tier players to boost their chances in the highly competitive league. Other notable buys included:
- David Warner, picked by Mumbai Indians for ₹16 crore, expected to bolster their opening lineup.
- Jasprit Bumrah, returning to his former franchise, Gujarat Titans, for ₹15.5 crore.
- Rashid Khan, retained by Sunrisers Hyderabad for ₹15 crore.
What This Means for LSG and Punjab Kings
For Lucknow Super Giants, Pant’s inclusion is a significant boost to their batting lineup, especially given his ability to play under pressure. His dynamic batting style suits the team’s aggressive approach, and his leadership qualities could serve as a backup for KL Rahul.
Punjab Kings, on the other hand, have made their intentions clear by splurging on Shreyas Iyer. His steady presence in the middle order and tactical acumen will be pivotal as Punjab aims to end their trophy drought.
The Road Ahead
The 2025 IPL season promises to be one of the most exciting editions yet, with teams investing heavily in star players. As the countdown begins, all eyes will be on Pant and Iyer to see how they justify their record-breaking price tags and lead their teams to glory.
The cricketing world now eagerly awaits the upcoming season, where these high-profile acquisitions will battle it out on the field.
