Will Rishabh Pant emerge as the most expensive player in the IPL surpassing Mitchell Starc's 24.75 crore? Will KKR break the bank for the second successive season to achieve their desired target? KKR s search for a captain could push them to break new grounds again since they need a good tactician and strategist on the field. Gautam Gambhir's absence is still being felt in their ranks.

An auction is often regarded as a journey into the unknown where the dynamics are ruled by the market forces and are beyond any franchise's control.

With only 51 crore in their kitty and no Right to Match (RTM) options, KKR have to tread cautiously. But the think-tank is aware that bringing in a dynamic captain will serve as a good return on investment and go a long way in shaping the nucleus of the side.

In the past, KKR have played their cards judiciously -- they bought Pat Cummins for 15.5 crore in the 2020 auction along with Eoin Morgan, who had then just led England to a World Cup triumph, for 5.25 crore. Both the moves were well calculated though Cummins left before stepping into Morgan's shoes.

At the last auction in 2022, KKR had ultimately settled on Shreyas Iyer for 12.25 crore.

With at least three other franchises looking for captains in IPL 2025, KKR will have to be bold in their decision making. Sources suggest that they are keen to regain Shreyas if the circumstances favour his inclusion. But the grapevine has it that Delhi Capitals have already struck a deal with the IPL-winning captain and will go all out for him.

The same applies for Pant who is understood to be lured by Punjab Kings since he's their head coach Ricky Ponting's favourite. With 110.5 crore in their kitty, they can afford to go the distance.

If it comes to it, KKR could even target KL Rahul or England's T20 World Cup-winning captain Jos Buttler. Indian cricket's favourite whipping boy Rahul's credentials can't be ignored. Even Buttler could attract much attention.

Besides a captain, KKR will also be keen on a pacer. Arshdeep Singh will be their first choice but Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj can t be far behind.

Even South African Marco Jansen is being talked about because of his all-around abilities. But all of it will depend on how much is spent on a potential captain early at the auction.