In a surprise move just ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction, explosive wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant was sold to Punjab Kings for an impressive INR 33 crore. The move followed a tough and fierce battle in the franchisee auction that made the franchise outlast several other big teams including Delhi Capitals, Mumbai Indians, and Royal Challengers Bangalore. Pant’s dynamic skills, especially his aggressive batting and leadership potential, made him one of the most sought-after players at this year’s auction.
Released by Delhi Capitals, Pant was a key player in the side for quite a few years and even captained the side for some time. Even after his leadership tenure ending, the value of the top-order hitter and the sharp wicketkeeper went extremely high. In the IPL, he has notched up more than 3000 runs with a good strike rate that proves him to be an outright match winner.
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Given that Punjab Kings have the highest purse in the 2025 auction at INR 110 crore, it wasn’t surprising to see them aggressively chasing Pant. His inclusion will deepen and explode Punjab’s middle order. For a long time, this franchise has been looking for a quality leader, and Pant’s experience, coupled with his youthfulness, just fits the bill perfectly.
This deal reflects Pant’s rising stock in the IPL, and the kind of bidding war that is happening for him reflects his growing stature in world cricket. By the time IPL 2025 approaches, his presence in the Punjab squad is sure to turn heads and create a buzz, with many hoping to see him play a leading role in their campaign.