In a dramatic turn of events at the IPL 2025 Mega Auction, Rishabh Pant became the most expensive player ever to be signed in the history of the tournament. With a jaw-dropping bid of ₹27 crore, the explosive wicketkeeper-batter was secured by Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), surpassing the previous record held by Shreyas Iyer, who was picked up by Punjab Kings for ₹26.75 crore earlier in the day.
Intense IPL 2025 Auction for Rishabh Pant
After an impressive comeback season in IPL 2024, following a life-threatening car accident in late 2022, Pant’s return to top form made him an even more valuable asset in the auction. Thus, the bidding war was intense. Delhi Capitals (DC), who had released Pant ahead of this year’s auction, exercised their Right to Match (RTM) card when LSG initially bid ₹20.75 crore. However, LSG raised the stakes by pushing the bid to ₹27 crore, prompting DC to withdraw from the race. Speaking after the signing, LSG’s Shashwat Goenka revealed that the franchise had a clear strategy in mind, stating, “It wasn’t really about a magic number. We just wanted a figure that would prevent DC from exercising their RTM.”
Pant’s new contract represents more than just a lucrative deal; it’s a huge vote of confidence from LSG’s management. The franchise views him as a game-changer who can bring both skill and leadership to their squad, positioning them for their maiden IPL title. “I’m really excited to be part of LSG. Thank you to the management for showing faith in me. I look forward to making a lot of memories,” Pant said in a heartfelt message after the announcement.
