The IPL 2025 Mega Auction reached a dramatic high in Jeddah on Sunday as India’s star wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant became the most expensive player in the tournament’s history. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) secured Pant for an astronomical ₹27 crore, surpassing the previous record set just minutes earlier by Shreyas Iyer, who was bought by Punjab Kings (PBKS) for ₹26.75 crore.
The intense bidding for Pant saw LSG, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), and Delhi Capitals (DC) locked in a fierce contest. After RCB dropped out, SRH joined the fray, aiming to bolster their top order, while DC attempted to use their ‘Right to Match’ (RTM) card. However, the ₹27 crore bid by LSG proved unmatched, making Pant not only the most expensive player in this year’s auction but also in IPL history.
With this acquisition, LSG addresses key gaps in their lineup, gaining a reliable top-order batter, a skilled wicketkeeper, and a potential captaincy option.
The IPL’s official handle announced the historic signing with a celebratory post:
Pant’s IPL journey began with Delhi Capitals (DC) in 2016, where he has been a cornerstone of the team for nearly a decade. Over 110 matches, he amassed 3,284 runs at an average of 35.31 and a strike rate of over 147, including a century and 18 fifties. Appointed captain in 2021, he led DC to the playoffs in the same season, showcasing his leadership abilities.
In T20 cricket overall, Pant’s numbers further solidify his status as a game-changer. Across 202 matches, he has scored 5,022 runs at an average of 31.78 and a strike rate of over 145, including two centuries and 25 fifties. Known for his fearless approach and ability to perform on big stages, Pant’s signing is expected to transform LSG’s campaign in the upcoming season.
The IPL 2025 Mega Auction has been a stage for record-shattering deals. Earlier in the day, Shreyas Iyer became the league’s most expensive player, going to PBKS for ₹26.75 crore. This followed Mitchell Starc’s return to the IPL after years, with the Australian pacer fetching ₹24.75 crore, a record at the time.
This year’s auction features 574 players shortlisted from an initial pool of 1,574 names, including 208 overseas players and 12 uncapped international talents. With one day still remaining, fans can expect more surprises and potentially more records to tumble.
Pant’s acquisition marks a turning point for LSG, who now have a dynamic top-order batter and a player capable of turning games single-handedly. His leadership experience with DC adds an extra layer of value, making him a strong candidate to lead the franchise.
