The excitement for the IPL 2025 auction is already building, even though it’s still a while away. With mega auctions set to return, all eyes are on which players could fetch the highest bids. Mitchell Starc set the record for the most expensive player in IPL history last year, bagging a staggering INR 24.75 crore from Kolkata Knight Riders. As franchises prepare to rebuild their squads, here are three Indian players who might break Starc’s record in the upcoming IPL 2025 auction.
1. Rohit Sharma
Rohit Sharma, the Indian ODI and Test captain, could be a game-changer in the 2025 auction if he enters the pool. With Hardik Pandya taking over as Mumbai Indians’ captain, there have been speculations about Rohit’s potential departure from the team he led to five IPL titles. Although there’s no official confirmation, if Rohit decides to go into the auction, he could easily command a record-breaking bid.
Rohit is a T20 World Cup-winning captain, an aggressive opener, and a highly experienced leader. His ability to bat at the top of the order, combined with his status as an Indian superstar, makes him a prime candidate to break Starc’s record if he becomes available.
2. Rishabh Pant
Rishabh Pant, the dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman, is another name that could set the auction on fire. Although there’s no confirmation of his departure from Delhi Capitals, rumors suggest that Pant might be released by the franchise. Pant had an impressive 2024 season, returning strongly after recovering from a serious accident. He showcased his brilliance in the T20 World Cup 2024, adapting his batting from number three to six and displaying leadership skills.
Pant’s versatility as a batter, his wicketkeeping skills, and his ability to lead make him a hot prospect. If he enters the auction, Pant’s unique skill set could see him break the current record for the most expensive player.
3. Mayank Yadav
Mayank Yadav, known for his fiery pace, is another player who could potentially command a massive bid. Playing for the Lucknow Super Giants, Mayank delivered the fastest ball of IPL 2024 at 156.7 kph and is renowned for his raw pace. However, injuries have been a concern; he played only four matches in IPL 2024 before being sidelined with a side strain.
Despite his injury issues, Mayank’s potential release from LSG could make him a highly sought-after player. His express pace and ability to rattle top-order batsmen could see franchises willing to spend big, possibly surpassing Starc’s record bid.
Conclusion
The IPL 2025 auction promises to be a thrilling event, with several top players potentially entering the fray. Whether it’s Rohit Sharma’s leadership and experience, Rishabh Pant’s dynamism and versatility, or Mayank Yadav’s raw pace, any of these Indian stars could break the record set by Mitchell Starc. As the countdown to the auctions begins, the cricketing world eagerly awaits to see which franchise will go all out to secure their services.