IPL 2025 mega-auction: Teams spend 28% of total purse on 12 marquee players in first two hours

The Indian Premier League 2025 mega auction has so far shattered records and expectations, with franchises spending a staggering INR 180.50 crore in just two hours on marquee players. Teams allocated 28% of their total available purse of INR 641.50 crore on just 12 players, averaging an INR 1.5 crore per minute during the initial bidding phase.

The auctions have so far seen Rishabh Pant's historic acquisition by Lucknow Super Giants for Rs 27 crore, making him the most expensive player in IPL history. This deal overpowered Punjab Kings' massive INR 26.75 crore bid for Shreyas Iyer just moments earlier, both surpassing Mitchell Starc's previous record of INR 24.75 crore from the 2024 auction.

PBKS and LSG, both in need of leadership, made moves by securing Iyer and Pant respectively. Delhi Capitals joined the action by acquiring KL Rahul for INR 14 crore, potentially their new captain.

Gujarat Titans emerged as one of the most active bidders, using their INR 73 crore purse to secure a powerful trio of Jos Buttler (INR 15.75 crore), Kagiso Rabada (INR 10.75 crore), and Mohammed Siraj (INR 12.25 crore). 

Also Read: DAY 1: IPL Auction 2025 Live Updates on Players Sold, Unsold, Purse Remaining & Full Squad Details

Starc, who had a record fee last year, saw a decrease in his value, being picked up by Delhi Capitals for INR 11.75 crore. Furthermore, Yuzvendra Chahal's value surged from his 2022 price, with Punjab Kings securing him for INR 18 crore after an intense bidding war involving multiple teams. Notably, Chennai Super Kings, Mumbai Indians, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Rajasthan Royals maintained a surprisingly quiet presence during the marquee rounds.

IPL Auction 2025 sold players list: