The stage is set for the IPL 2025 mega auction, and with 1,574 players registering, excitement is building as franchises narrow down their options. Among the high-profile names, Indian stars Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, and Shreyas Iyer have set their base price at the maximum of ₹2 crore. Known for their leadership and consistent performances, these players are likely to attract intense bidding wars, with several teams on the lookout for experienced captains.
High Demand for Star Players
The IPL auction allows players to set a base price ranging from ₹20 lakh to ₹2 crore, and 25 cricketers have chosen the top tier. Besides Pant, Rahul, and Iyer, other Indian players like Ravichandran Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Mohammed Shami have also set their base prices at ₹2 crore. Meanwhile, international stars Mitchell Starc and Jofra Archer join the elite list of ₹2 crore players, both aiming to make a strong comeback in the league.
Foreign Stars Join the List
Mitchell Starc and Jofra Archer, two of the most lethal pacers in the game, are expected to draw significant attention. Starc, who commanded a whopping ₹24.75 crore last season, has entered the auction after being released, while Archer, away from the IPL since 2023 due to injuries, looks to make a return. Their addition could offer teams the chance to bolster their bowling attacks, which could be pivotal in the upcoming season.
James Anderson’s Surprising Entry at ₹1.25 Crore
In a surprising twist, 42-year-old James Anderson has registered for the IPL auction with a base price of ₹1.25 crore. The England Test veteran hasn’t played T20 cricket since 2014 but seems eager to venture into franchise cricket at the IPL level. His entry has added an unexpected layer of intrigue to the auction, with fans eager to see if any team will take a chance on the seasoned pacer.
Varied Base Prices for Indian Talent
While some players like Pant, Rahul, and Iyer have opted for the top base price, others like Sarfaraz Khan and Prithvi Shaw have chosen a modest ₹75 lakh. This approach may appeal to teams looking for budget-friendly options, ensuring that players with lower base prices remain accessible to more franchises.
Auction Date and Player Pool
The IPL 2025 mega auction is set for November 24-25. With only 204 spots available, including 70 for overseas players, the final list will be streamlined, creating fierce competition. The two-day auction promises intense bidding, especially with high-stakes players at the ₹2 crore mark.
Base Price Highlights for IPL 2025 Auction:
- ₹2 Crore: Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Ravichandran Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mohammed Shami, Mitchell Starc, Jofra Archer, and more.
- ₹1.25 Crore: James Anderson
- ₹75 Lakh: Sarfaraz Khan, Prithvi Shaw
With marquee names setting the stage, the IPL 2025 auction promises to be an event to watch, as franchises strategize their bids to build championship-winning teams.