The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 Mega Auction was nothing short of a spectacle, with Shreyas Iyer stealing the show by becoming the second most expensive player in IPL history. Punjab Kings secured the services of the talented batter for a whopping Rs 26.75 crore. This landmark moment has further cemented Iyer’s status as one of cricket’s finest players.
The IPL Auction Bidding War
The auction began with a fierce tug-of-war among franchises, including Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals, and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). While Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings led the charge, KKR eventually bowed out, leaving the two teams to battle it out. Punjab Kings emerged victorious, securing Iyer in a historic bid.
Rishabh Pant The Most Expensive Buy
Rishabh Pant has made history by becoming the most expensive player in IPL history, with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) acquiring him for ₹27 crore. This surpasses the previous record held by Shreyas Iyer, who was picked up by Punjab Kings for ₹26.75 crore. Earlier in the IPL 2025 Auction, Arshdeep Singh was the first player to be sold, going to his team via the Right to Match (RTM) card for ₹18 crore.
Mitchell Starc’s Rs 24.75 crore deal in 2024 had set a high benchmark previous year at mini-auction, but Iyer’s signing smashed that record. This auction not only highlights Iyer’s value but also highlights the evolving dynamics of the IPL. Starting with a base price of Rs 2 crore, Iyer was a part of the marquee set 1 player. His proven track record and leadership qualities made him the centerpiece of the auction, driving up his value exponentially.
Shreyas Iyer’s IPL Career Highlights
Iyer debuted in 2015 with Delhi Capitals, where he quickly became a cornerstone of the team. Transitioning to KKR in 2022, he displayed remarkable consistency and led the team to victory in 2024. His IPL journey reflects his growth as both a player and a leader.
Over 116 IPL matches, Iyer has scored 3,127 runs at a strike rate of 127, including 21 half-centuries. His highest score of 96 exemplifies his ability to anchor innings while maintaining aggression. Since debuting in 2017, Iyer has represented India in 51 T20 matches, amassing 1,104 runs with a strike rate of 136. His eight fifties underscore his ability to perform on the global stage. Iyer’s leadership shone brightly in 2020 when he guided Delhi Capitals to their first final. In 2024, his strategic acumen helped KKR clinch the IPL title after a decade-long drought.
Punjab Kings’ Strategic Move
Punjab Kings’ aggressive bidding for Iyer reflects their ambition to rebuild and aim for the IPL trophy. With Iyer’s experience and skills, the team is poised for a strong campaign in 2025.
Iyer is a master at blending aggression with control. His ability to rotate the strike and unleash big shots makes him a versatile asset for any team. While other marquee players garnered significant bids, Iyer’s record-breaking deal stands out. His leadership skills, batting consistency, and recent form set him apart.
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