The IPL 2025 Mega Auction in Jeddah lived up to its reputation as a spectacle of surprises, with shocking deals that left fans buzzing. From record-breaking bids to unexpected snubs, here are the top seven headline-grabbing moments from the event.
New Zealand’s rising star Rachin Ravindra was picked up by Chennai Super Kings for just 4 crore. Known for his all-round abilities and recent international performances, Ravindra could be a valuable asset for the four-time champions.
Royal Challengers Bangalore made a bold move by acquiring Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood for ₹12 crore. With his lethal combination of precision and pace, Hazlewood is expected to spearhead RCB’s bowling attack.
Despite a below-par season with Punjab Kings in 2024, wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma commanded an impressive ₹11 crore from RCB. The bold bid signals the franchise’s belief in Sharma’s potential as a game-changer.
In a shocking twist, veteran Australian batter and IPL legend David Warner found no takers during the first round of the auction. Despite his illustrious IPL career, Warner’s declining form may have contributed to this unexpected outcome.
One of the biggest surprises of the auction was Glenn Maxwell’s price tag. The Australian all-rounder, known for his explosive batting and handy off-spin, was snapped up by Punjab Kings for just ₹4.2 crore a bargain by IPL standards.
In another jaw-dropping deal, Kolkata Knight Riders brought Venkatesh Iyer back to their squad for 23.75 crore. This made him the third-highest bid in IPL auction history, underlining his value as an all-rounder who can anchor and accelerate innings.
Shreyas Iyer created a stir by becoming the second-most expensive player ever in IPL auctions. Punjab Kings secured the star batter for a staggering ₹26.75 crore, edging out intense competition from Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders.