The first day of the IPL 2025 auction, held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, was a spectacle of intense bidding and record-breaking financial commitments. A staggering total of INR 467.95 crore was spent on 72 players, highlighting franchises' eagerness to strengthen their teams. The most notable moment came when Rishabh Pant shattered previous records, becoming the highest-paid player in IPL history after being acquired by the Lucknow Super Giants for an astonishing INR 27 crore.

Key Players from Day One of the Auction:

Rishabh Pant

Rishabh Pant made headlines as he became the most expensive player ever in IPL history, with the Lucknow Super Giants securing him for a remarkable INR 27 crore. The bidding war saw fierce competition from franchises like Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Delhi Capitals, all vying to bring back their former captain. Pant's explosive batting prowess, with 3,284 runs at a strike rate of 148.93 over 111 matches, significantly enhances Lucknow’s batting strength.

Shreyas Iyer

Shreyas Iyer was picked up by Punjab Super Kings for INR 26.75 crore after an intense bidding contest involving Punjab, Delhi Capitals, and Kolkata Knight Riders. Having led Kolkata to an IPL title in 2024, Iyer aims to solidify Punjab's middle order as their new captain. With a commendable record of 3,127 runs in 115 matches, he is known for his reliability and consistency.

Venkatesh Iyer

After previously releasing him, Kolkata Knight Riders made a bold move to re-sign Venkatesh Iyer for INR 23.75 crore. Renowned for his all-round abilities, Iyer has been crucial to KKR's achievements and remains a key player for the franchise. Following a competitive bidding process against Lucknow and Bengaluru, Kolkata secured his services. In his IPL career spanning 50 matches since his debut in 2021, he has scored 1,326 runs at a strike rate of 137.13.

Arshdeep Singh

Arshdeep Singh created excitement as the first player bid on during the auction. After aggressive offers from teams such as Chennai, Delhi, Rajasthan, and Gujarat, Punjab Super Kings retained him using their Right to Match (RTM) card for INR 18 crore. The talented left-arm pacer has taken 76 wickets in 65 IPL matches and is recognized for his performance under pressure.

Yuzvendra Chahal

Yuzvendra Chahal emerged as Punjab’s significant spin signing at INR 18 crore after a competitive bidding round that included Gujarat, Chennai, and Lucknow. As the all-time leading wicket-taker in IPL history with 205 wickets across 160 matches, Chahal brings invaluable experience and skill to Punjab’s bowling lineup. This will be his fourth team in the IPL after stints with Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Rajasthan Royals.

The IPL 2025 auction is set to continue reshaping team rosters as franchises compete for top talent to bolster their chances in the upcoming season.

Read Also: No MI return for Ishan Kishan as Sunrisers Hyderabad bolsters explosive unit with INR 11.25 crore bid for India WK