NEW DELHI: The IPL 2025 mega-auction in Jeddah has been remarkable, with franchises investing substantial amounts in key players. While some cricketers commanded premium prices, others were acquired at reasonable rates by their respective teams.
Here are five notable value-for-money acquisitions from the IPL 2025 auction:
Mitchell Starc (Rs 11.75 cr, Delhi Capitals)
The Australian fast bowler performed admirably for Kolkata Knight Riders, claiming 15 wickets in 13 matches at an average of 24.67, contributing to KKR’s IPL victory after a decade.
Following his release by KKR, Delhi Capitals secured Starc for Rs 11.75 crore at the IPL 2025 auction in Jeddah on Sunday. His effectiveness in both PowerPlay and death overs is noteworthy. Previously, KKR invested Rs 24.75 crore in Starc, making him the costliest player then, utilising 80 per cent of their budget.
However, Rishabh Pant surpassed this record when LSG acquired him for Rs 27 crore. DC’s current acquisition of Starc represents good value.
Rishabh Pant becomes most expensive IPL player after he goes to LSG for Rs 27 crore at IPL auction
Washington Sundar (Rs 3.2 crore, Gujarat Titans)
Gujarat Titans secured the Indian all-rounder Washington Sundar for Rs 3.2 crore, representing excellent value at the IPL 2025 mega-auctions. Despite strong performances in Tests against Australia and New Zealand, only GT and Lucknow Super Giants showed interest. The bidding began at Rs 2 crore base price, with LSG withdrawing early, allowing GT to acquire the Tamil Nadu player advantageously. His T20 international statistics show 47 wickets from 52 matches with an economy rate of 6.87. He joins Sai Sudharsan and Shahrukh Khan for the upcoming season.
Faf Du Plessis (Rs 2 crore, Delhi Capitals)
The former South African captain joins Delhi Capitals for IPL 2025. The team acquired him for Rs 2 crore after Royal Challengers Bengaluru declined their Right to Match option.
Du Plessis, an established IPL champion, brings extensive experience from his time with Chennai Super Kings and RCB. His IPL career encompasses 145 matches, accumulating 4,571 runs, including 37 half-centuries and two titles in 2018 and 2021.
He strengthens Delhi’s squad alongside fellow South African Tristan Stubbs, potentially providing stability to their batting order.
Shreyas Iyer, Venkatesh Iyer fetch Rs 26.75 crore, Rs 23.75 crore each at IPL mega auction
KL Rahul (Rs 14 cr, DC)
Delhi Capitals, having retained Axar Patel (Rs 16.5 crore), Kuldeep Yadav (Rs 13.25 crore), Tristan Stubbs (Rs. 10 crore), and Abishek Porel (Rs. 4 crore), sought leadership options after Rishabh Pant’s departure.
The acquisition of KL Rahul for Rs 14 crore suggests he could assume captaincy for IPL 2025.
Rahul, with his opening batting capabilities and previous IPL leadership experience, could serve multiple roles for Delhi Capitals – captain, wicketkeeper and batter.
Quinton de Kock (Rs 3.6 crore, Kolkata Knight Riders)
Champions KKR secured South African wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock for Rs 3.60 crore in the IPL 2025 auction after Lucknow Super Giants declined their Right to Match option.
De Kock replaces Phil Salt as wicketkeeper and could partner with Sunil Narine as opener. His experience of 107 IPL matches, 3,157 runs and two centuries makes this acquisition potentially significant for KKR.