The excitement for the IPL 2025 auction, scheduled to take place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on November 24 and 25, is reaching its peak. With several teams eager to strengthen their squads, wicketkeepers are expected to dominate the bidding wars this season. Experts believe records will be shattered, with Indian star Rishabh Pant leading the pack.
Rishabh Pant Could Break All Records
Former cricketers Aakash Chopra and Robin Uthappa predict that Pant might become the most expensive player in IPL history. Aakash Chopra shared on a Jio Cinema program, “Wicketkeepers are going to fetch the highest bids this year, and Pant is at the top of the list.”
Robin Uthappa speculated that the bidding for Pant could soar to an unprecedented ₹25–28 crore, surpassing the ₹24.75 crore record set by Mitchell Starc last year. He further suggested that teams like Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) might target Pant, as both are in search of a captain and have a strong budget. Gujarat Titans might also join the race for Pant.
Big Numbers for Ishan Kishan
Aakash Chopra also sees Ishan Kishan as another hot commodity in the auction. He estimated that teams like Mumbai Indians, RCB, Punjab Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), and Gujarat Titans could drive his bidding up to ₹18 crore.
Different Opinions on Top Wicketkeepers
Interestingly, Robin Uthappa’s top five wicketkeepers differ from Aakash Chopra’s list. Uthappa excluded Ishan Kishan, stating, “If bids are based on form, he may not attract a high price. But if talent is the focus, he could see a big bid.”
Uthappa’s Top 5 Wicketkeepers:
- Rishabh Pant
- KL Rahul
- Jos Buttler
- Quinton de Kock
- Phil Salt
Uthappa also hinted at Jos Buttler being a prime target for KKR, given his captaincy experience and dynamic playing style.
Teams Ready to Spend Big
With several franchises having significant budgets remaining, the competition for key players will be fierce. Teams like Punjab Kings, RCB, and KKR have both the funds and the need for top wicketkeeper-batsmen, ensuring intense bidding wars.
The IPL 2025 auction promises to be an electrifying event, with wicketkeepers at the center of attention. All eyes will be on the players and the teams as they strategize to build winning squads.
