Five released openers who got big money in IPL 2025 auction

Ishan Kishan and KL Rahul (Source – Twitter/X)

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction in Jeddah witnessed teams investing heavily in top-order talent after the run-fest observed in the previous season. With 182 players signed across two days of bidding, the opening batters appeared as a key investment for franchises seeking explosive starts.

Teams invested substantial resources in acquiring proven opening batters who could provide momentum from the first ball. While teams like Mumbai Indians, Rajasthan Royals, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Chennai Super Kings retained at least one familiar opener from the 2024 season, others went on to break their bank to strengthen their batting arsenals.

Big openers like David Warner, Jonny Bairstow, and Prithvi Shaw found themselves unsold, while new talents caught the attention of teams, eventually resulting in them going to their respective teams. The biggest moment came with Rishabh Pant’s record-breaking INR 27 crore deal with Lucknow Super Giants, though he isn’t primarily an opener. However, the only team that notably missed out on specialist openers was the Lucknow Super Giants. With teams investing a total of INR 639.15 crore, the auction showed the important role of opening batters in the league.

Here are the five released openers who got big bucks in the IPL 2025 mega-auction:

5. Jake Fraser-McGurk (INR 9 crore, Delhi Capitals):

Jake Fraser-McGurk emerged as a hot property in the auction, securing a whopping INR 9 crore deal with the Delhi Capitals. The 22-year-old Australian made headlines with his explosive debut season in 2024, smashing 330 runs at a strike rate of 234. After making his debut in ODI and T20I for Australia, Fraser-McGurk has become a sought-after talent in T20 leagues.

The bidding saw Punjab Kings initially seeming to win the race before Delhi Capitals exercised their Right to Match card to retain their prized asset. With his aggressive batting style, he’s set to form a formidable opening partnership with KL Rahul. The Capitals also have a selection dilemma, with Faf du Plessis being another opener in their squad. DC will look at balancing their overseas slots while ensuring they field their strongest batting lineup.

4. Ishan Kishan (INR 11.25 crore, Sunrisers Hyderabad):

Ishan Kishan grabbed eyeballs after being signed by Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) for a whopping INR 11.25 crore. The explosive left-handed batter brings immense experience, having scored 2,644 IPL runs at a strike rate of 135.87. His breakthrough season came in IPL 2020, where he smashed 516 runs, including a memorable 99 in a thrilling Super Over against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

After parting ways with Mumbai Indians, where he was previously signed for INR 15.25 crore, Kishan will bring plenty of potential to the table. However, the team retained Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma who formed a successful opening duo in 2024. Kishan for the start might be seen taking the number three position but can step in as an opener if needed.

Also Check: Top 5 overseas players who went unsold in IPL 2025 auction

3. Phil Salt (INR 11.50 crore, Royal Challengers Bengaluru):

English opener, Phil Salt is all set for an exciting new chapter with Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Secured for a whopping INR 11.50 crore contract, Salt will be seen opening with star India batter Virat Kohli. Last year, he was initially overlooked and was brought back as a replacement player for Kolkata Knight Riders and ultimately played a crucial role in their championship victory.

With 653 runs from 21 IPL games and a strike rate of 173.53, Salt has proven he’s a valuable asset. His strong partnership with Sunil Narine last season was key to KKR’s success, and now he’s ready to create magic with RCB.

Also Check: IPL 2025 Auction: 5 players who deserved higher bids

2. KL Rahul (INR 14 crore, Delhi Capitals):

KL Rahul who was acquired by the Delhi Capitals, secured a INR 14 crore contract in the IPL mega auction. After three seasons leading Lucknow Super Giants and a career spanning multiple franchises, the 32-year-old has a wealth of experience. The right-handed batter with 4,683 IPL runs under his belt, Rahul has consistently scored runs across Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Punjab Kings, and LSG

Despite facing a challenging 2023 season where a thigh injury limited his playing time, Rahul guided LSG to playoffs in their first two seasons. Rahul is a strong contender to take the opening slot. Though he is a flexible batter who can bat at any position, the experienced player has had his best times in the league as an opener.

Also Check – IPL 2025: 3 players who returned to their former franchise

1. Jos Buttler (INR 15.75 crore, Gujarat Titans):

T20 World Cup-winning captain, Jos Buttler will join the Gujarat Titans for the upcoming IPL season after being picked up for a massive price tag of INR 15.75 crore. After seven memorable years with Rajasthan Royals, Buttler will once again look to entertain the fans with his flamboyant batting at the top.

The hard-hitting opener has smashed 3,582 runs in 107 IPL matches, including seven centuries. His most memorable season came in 2022 when he claimed the Orange Cap, smashing 862 runs. The 34-year-old isn’t just bringing his batting skills but also leadership experience. Buttler will partner with skipper Shubman Gill and provide solid starts to the side. The conditions will suit Buttler’s batting and he will look to impress the spectators once again with his willow.

Disclaimer: This latest news is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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