IPL 2025 Auction: Team Strengths and Predicted Playing XIs
The IPL 2025 auction, held over two days in Jeddah, saw a total of 577 players go under the hammer, with 182 of them securing contracts, including 62 overseas players. Franchises collectively spent INR 639.15 crore, creating competitive squads for the upcoming season. Here’s a detailed look at the teams and their best probable line-ups.
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) stuck to their tried-and-tested strategy of retaining core players while strengthening specific areas. A significant move was reacquiring Sam Curran for INR 2.40 crore, which could prove to be a bargain considering his all-round capabilities. Adding Noor Ahmad provides an attacking spin option, while Nathan Ellis can step in on non-turning pitches. The team aims for a balance of batting depth and all-rounders.
Delhi Capitals focused on big-name signings like KL Rahul, Faf du Plessis, T Natarajan, and Mitchell Starc. KL Rahul’s acquisition at INR 14 crore provides a strong anchor for the batting line-up, supported by power-hitters like Harry Brook and Tristan Stubbs. However, the lack of all-rounders and experienced backups for bowlers remains a concern.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) followed their traditional approach of retaining familiar faces but made surprising decisions, including a massive INR 23.75 crore bid for Venkatesh Iyer. Despite this, questions linger about leadership and the middle-order strength. The team appears to rely heavily on Iyer and Rinku Singh for batting stability.
Gujarat Titans quietly built a formidable team without much fanfare. They acquired strong all-rounders like Washington Sundar and Glenn Phillips, adding flexibility to their line-up. Although their bowling lacks specialists, Kagiso Rabada and Mohammed Siraj lead a capable pace attack.
Lucknow Super Giants made headlines by securing Rishabh Pant for a record INR 27 crore, solidifying a powerful middle order. However, the team lacks established openers and experienced backups, which could test their depth. Their all-Indian bowling line-up allows them to maximize overseas batting talent.
Mumbai Indians had a slow start to the auction but ended with impactful purchases, including Trent Boult, Deepak Chahar, and Will Jacks. Their strong pace unit, featuring Bumrah and Boult, forms the backbone of the team. However, the lack of a proven finisher beyond Hardik Pandya is a concern.
Punjab Kings utilized the largest auction purse wisely, forming a solid squad with additions like Shreyas Iyer, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Marcus Stoinis. Their strategy of balancing all-rounders with a strong Indian bowling line-up makes them a dark horse in the competition.
Rajasthan Royals aimed to strengthen their bowling, signing Jofra Archer and Wanindu Hasaranga. Despite their injury histories, these players could make a significant impact if fit. The lack of capped Indian pacers and untested backups may pose challenges during the season.
Royal Challengers Bangalore faced criticism for their auction strategy but managed to assemble a well-rounded squad. With a solid batting order featuring Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, and Liam Livingstone, and a dependable bowling attack led by Bhuvneshwar Kumar, the team looks balanced and less reliant on individual brilliance.
Sunrisers Hyderabad retained their strengths while adding firepower with Ishan Kishan and Abhinav Manohar. However, their lack of a reliable No. 7 batter could create dependency on the Impact Player rule, leaving them vulnerable in certain situations.
As the dust settles on the IPL 2025 auction, each team appears to have a unique strategy, balancing strengths and addressing weaknesses. While some squads look dominant on paper, the unpredictability of the T20 format ensures that the on-field performance will ultimately determine success. Fans eagerly await the season to see how these teams fare in their quest for glory.