Sunday, 22 December 2024
Sunday, 22 December 2024
The countdown has begun for the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auction, scheduled for November 24 and 25, and the teams will be in the final stages of drawing up plans for how they should acquire new players.
This year’s auction promises to be a gripping affair, featuring an exciting mix of emerging talents, seasoned campaigners, and game-changing all-rounders. Among the pool of released players are some big names with proven consistency on the global stage, as well as match-winners who thrive under pressure.
The Telegraph Online takes a closer look at the players poised to become the prized possessions in this high-stakes event.
Rishabh Pant - the most expensive player in IPL history?
For the first time in IPL history, the auction will feature two separate sets of marquee players. Among them, Rishabh Pant stands out in the first set as a hot commodity on every team's wish list. He is expected to surpass the ₹20 crore mark, becoming the most expensive player ever sold in IPL history.
The record for the most expensive IPL players is held by Australian pacers Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, who were signed by Kolkata Knight Riders and Sunrisers Hyderabad for ₹24.75 crore and ₹20.50 crore.
Pant, who captained the Delhi Capitals in IPL 2021 and 2022, has drawn interest from teams like Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru—franchises with substantial budgets and a keen interest in securing a captain for their team.
The Indian wicketkeeper-batsman has an impressive IPL track record, amassing 3,284 runs at a strike rate of 148.93 in 111 matches for the Delhi Capitals.
Adding to the buzz, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan recently wrote on X, "Mitchell Starc’s auction record is in danger. Rishabh Pant is ready to break it."
Devon Conway - a CSK homecoming?
In his two IPL seasons with CSK, Kiwi opener Devon Conway has proven to be a force to reckon with. Across 23 matches, he has scored over 900 runs at an impressive strike rate of 141.28. With such remarkable stats, Conway is certain to be in high demand.
Conway played a pivotal role in CSK's victorious 2023 campaign, finishing as the team’s highest run-scorer with 672 runs in 16 matches. His Player of the Match performance in the finals cemented his legacy with the franchise. He was ruled out of the 2024 season due to an injury, with Richard Gleeson stepping in as his replacement.
While CSK is likely to consider using the Right to Match (RTM) card to retain him, their remaining purse of just ₹55 crore might complicate matters. Fans will be eager to see whether Conway reunites with the Super Kings at Chepauk or finds a new home for the upcoming season.
Conway’s extensive experience as a wicket-keeper adds another dimension to his value. This versatility will make him a sought-after asset in Jeddah.
Arshdeep Singh - death over specialist
The young Indian left-arm seamer has emerged as a formidable bowler since his talent was first showcased by Punjab Kings (PBKS) in 2019. Released by the franchise ahead of the upcoming auction, the 25-year-old has proven his mettle, evolving into a key asset for India in T20Is.
The second-highest wicket-taker for India in the format, with 95 wickets in 60 matches—just one behind Yuzvendra Chahal—the bowler’s growing reputation makes him a coveted option for all the ten franchises. Experts predict he could command a hefty price tag of ₹10–15 crore in the mega auction. PBKS, with a massive ₹110.5 crore purse, might even use their Right-to-Match (RTM) card to bring him back into the fold.
Mohammed Shami - the most awaited comeback
When it comes to pace and swing, all eyes are on Mohammed Shami as he prepares for a thrilling comeback. After missing IPL 2024 due to a heel injury, the ace pacer is ready to reclaim the spotlight on the grandest stage.
Released by the Gujarat Titans squad ahead of the mega auction, Shami's return carries high expectations. A standout performer in the IPL 2023 season, he claimed the prestigious Purple Cap, leading Gujarat Titans to two consecutive finals and cementing his reputation as a match-winner.
Renowned for his ability to swing the ball and pitch it with the perfect seam in the powerplay, Shami remains an invaluable asset to any team.
Jos Buttler - Mr. Consistent
The Rajasthan Royals (RR) have made a surprising move by not retaining their explosive opener, Jos Buttler, ahead of the IPL auction. Like KKR, RR has retained just six players, and Buttler’s name is absent from the list. With a base price of ₹2 crores, Buttler is expected to ignite a fierce bidding war, given his exceptional IPL track record.
The star batter has scored 3,582 runs in 106 innings across 107 matches, boasting an impressive average of 38.11. Buttler’s IPL career includes seven centuries and 19 half-centuries, achieved at an outstanding strike rate of 147.53. His ability to change the course of a game makes him a prized asset for any franchise.
With several teams, including Lucknow Super Giants, Punjab Kings, and Kolkata Knight Riders, releasing their captains, Buttler’s leadership skills will add to his appeal.
Mitch Starc - one of the world’s best
Mitchell Starc, the most expensive player in last year's IPL auction, is expected to be one of the top picks again this time.
While the Australian pacer struggled in the early stages of the previous tournament, he found his rhythm as the competition progressed. In the playoffs, Starc brought out his beast mode and won matches for KKR, playing a key role in their third title win.
His most memorable contribution came in the final, where he dismantled the stumps of Travis Head, who had been in peak form throughout the tournament.
Glenn Maxwell - The Big Show
At the IPL 2021 auction, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) had identified Glenn Maxwell as their "dream pick," bidding a hefty INR 14 crore for the Australian powerhouse. But it was Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) who bagged him. Fast forward three seasons, and Maxwell is once again on the market.
The man who can demolish bowling attacks even if he is standing on one foot, Maxwell was the nightmare for Afghanistan in the 2023 ODI World Cup semifinal. He single-handedly dismantled the opposition in a performance that will be remembered for years to come. His explosive batting, combined with his ability to bowl crucial off-spin overs, makes him a valuable all-rounder, although his recent form and frequent injuries raise some concerns.
