IPL 2025 Mega Auction LIVE Updates, Day 1: Rishabh Pant Sets Rs 27 Crore Record, KL Rahul Underwhelms

The IPL 2025 Mega Auction kicked off with a bang, creating headlines and breaking records on its very first day.

Held in the dazzling city of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, the auction has already redefined the stakes of the world’s most lucrative cricket league. The excitement was palpable as teams splurged on marquee players and rising stars. Here’s everything that unfolded on Day 1.

Rishabh Pant Creates History
Rishabh Pant shattered all previous records to become the most expensive player in IPL history. The Lucknow Super Giants outbid fierce competition to secure the Indian wicketkeeper-batter for a staggering Rs 27 crore. This historic bid eclipsed Shreyas Iyer’s record of Rs 26.75 crore, set just moments earlier by Punjab Kings.

Shreyas Iyer’s Blockbuster Deal
Shreyas Iyer became the second-highest buy in IPL history as Punjab Kings invested heavily in the dynamic batter for Rs 26.75 crore. His acquisition showcased Punjab’s intent to build a star-studded team.

Yuzvendra Chahal Becomes Most Expensive Indian Spinner
Another major highlight of the day was Yuzvendra Chahal, who broke records for Indian spinners by being sold to Punjab Kings for Rs 18 crore. The wily leg-spinner adds strength to PBKS’ bowling department.

Top Buys of Day 1
Rishabh Pant: Lucknow Super Giants – Rs 27 crore
Shreyas Iyer: Punjab Kings – Rs 26.75 crore
Yuzvendra Chahal: Punjab Kings – Rs 18 crore
Arshdeep Singh: Punjab Kings (RTM) – Rs 18 crore
Jos Buttler: Gujarat Titans – Rs 15.75 crore
KL Rahul Fails to Impress

Surprisingly, KL Rahul, known for his consistency, was picked by Delhi Capitals for a modest Rs 14 crore. The relatively low price for the star batter left fans and analysts stunned, with many questioning the bidding strategies of teams.

Other Notable Picks
Kagiso Rabada: Gujarat Titans – Rs 10.75 crore
Mitchell Starc: Delhi Capitals – Rs 11.75 crore
Mohammed Shami: Sunrisers Hyderabad – Rs 10 crore
David Miller: Lucknow Super Giants – Rs 7.5 crore
Mohammed Siraj: Gujarat Titans – Rs 12.25 crore

Day 1 Auction Order and Format
The auction followed a structured format, starting with marquee players, capped batters, all-rounders, wicketkeepers, and bowlers. The session concluded with the first set of uncapped players, adding more excitement to the proceedings. Day 1’s standout performers have set the tone for what promises to be an unforgettable auction.

Looking Ahead to Day 2
With big names still in the pool and uncapped players ready to shine, Day 2 is expected to deliver more drama, surprises, and record-breaking bids. All eyes will remain on teams’ strategies as they aim to assemble their dream squads for IPL 2025.

Stay tuned for live updates, expert analyses, and behind-the-scenes scoops from the IPL 2025 Mega Auction!