Rishabh Pant tops IPL 2025 auction as bidding frenzy unfolds in Jeddah 

JEDDAH: The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction kicked off in grand style in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, with franchises making aggressive bids to secure top talent. On the first day of the two-day event, over Rs110 million was spent within the opening hour, setting the tone for a high-stakes bidding war. 

Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant emerged as the most expensive player, purchased by Lucknow Super Giants for a record Rs270 million. Close behind was Shreyas Iyer, the former Kolkata Knight Riders captain, who went to Punjab Kings for Rs260.75 million. 

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England’s Jos Buttler, previously part of Rajasthan Royals, was acquired by Gujarat Titans for Rs150.75 million. Indian pacer Arshdeep Singh also attracted a hefty bid, returning to Punjab Kings for Rs180 million. Meanwhile, South Africa’s speedster Kagiso Rabada joined Gujarat Titans for Rs100 million. 

The auction, being held on November 24 and November 25, is the first of its kind hosted in Saudi Arabia.

It highlights the growing global influence of the IPL, with Jeddah providing a glamorous stage for cricket’s most lucrative league. Day 2 promises even more excitement as teams finalise their squads for the 2025 season.