Mon Nov 25 02:02:47 UTC 2024: **IPL Mega Auction Day 1: Record-Breaking Spending and Surprise Buys**

Mumbai, India – The first day of the IPL 2025 mega auction concluded with a flurry of record-breaking bids and surprising acquisitions. Rishabh Pant shattered the previous auction record, joining the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for a staggering ₹27 crore, while Shreyas Iyer went to the Punjab Kings (PBKS) for ₹26.75 crore.

Several other players fetched high prices. Yuzvendra Chahal became the most expensive buy of Round 2, joining PBKS for ₹18 crore, while Mohammed Siraj went to Gujarat Titans (GT) for ₹12.25 crore. KL Rahul joined Delhi Capitals (DC) for ₹14 crore, and Jos Buttler moved to GT for ₹15.75 crore.

The auction also saw some unexpected high-value purchases. Venkatesh Iyer, surprisingly, became the third most expensive player overall, going to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for ₹23.75 crore. Noor Ahmed was another surprise, fetching ₹10 crore from Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

Among the notable spinner acquisitions were Wanindu Hasaranga (RR, ₹5.25 crore), Rahul Chahar (SRH, ₹3.2 crore), and Adam Zampa (SRH, ₹2 crore). Ishan Kishan became the second-costliest buy, joining SRH for ₹11.25 crore. Phillip Salt’s move to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for ₹11.5 crore was another highlight.

The auction wasn’t without its surprises. Several high-profile players remained unsold, including Jonny Bairstow and Devdutt Padikkal.

GT, DC, and PBKS emerged as the most aggressive buyers, acquiring eight players each. RR and MI made the fewest purchases, with three each. PBKS spent the most overall (₹84.50 crore), while MI exercised caution, spending only ₹18.40 crore. The auction continues tomorrow with the remaining unsold players.

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