The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction was nothing short of a spectacle, bringing together top franchises to compete fiercely for the finest talent in cricket. Held in Jeddah, this mega auction reflected the essence of the IPL- glamour, strategy, and unpredictable surprises.
IPL 2025 Mega Auction: A grand showcase of strategy and excitement
With teams reshuffling their rosters to build winning combinations, the event was marked by intense bidding wars, emotional reunions, and a strong focus on both young prospects and seasoned players. The highlight of the auction was the return of several star players to their former franchises, creating a nostalgic yet thrilling narrative for the upcoming season. These homecomings not only bring back familiar faces but also promise to rekindle old rivalries and alliances, enriching the IPL’s legacy as a league of passion and drama.
Homecoming: Familiar faces return to their former franchise
The 2025 season of the IPL will witness some iconic homecomings, as players who once dazzled for their franchises return to the fold. These reunions, forged during the auction, are set to bring a mix of nostalgia and renewed energy to the league.
1. Ravichandran Ashwin – Back in yellow
Ravichandran Ashwin, one of India’s most accomplished off-spinners, is making his way back to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) after a successful stint with Rajasthan Royals (RR). Bought for INR 9.75 crore, Ashwin’s return to CSK is nothing short of poetic. Having played for the franchise from 2009 to 2015, he was instrumental in their title-winning campaigns. His comeback adds depth to CSK’s spin department, reuniting him with a legacy of great spinner and his India’s teammate Ravindra Jadeja.
2. Jofra Archer – The speedster’s royal reunion
Jofra Archer, known for his fiery pace and game-changing spells, has returned to Rajasthan. Acquired for INR 12.50 crore, Archer’s homecoming is a significant boost for the Royals’ bowling attack. Archer made his IPL debut with Rajasthan in 2018 and was a pivotal part of their squad until 2021. His ability to deliver under pressure will be crucial as the Rajasthan eye their next championship.
3. Trent Boult – Mumbai Indians’ trusted weapon
Trent Boult’s return to Mumbai Indians (MI) has stirred excitement among fans. Bought for INR 12.50 crore, the New Zealand pacer will once again pair up with Jasprit Bumrah, reigniting one of the most lethal bowling duos in IPL history. Boult, who was part of MI’s title-winning campaign in 2020, brings with him precision and experience, making MI’s bowling attack a formidable force.
4. Glenn Maxwell – Punjab’s explosive comeback
Glenn Maxwell is back with Punjab Kings (PBKS) after being acquired for INR 4.2 crore. Known for his ability to turn games single-handedly, Maxwell’s return to Punjab, where he previously played from 2014 to 2017 and in 2020, is a chance for redemption. His dynamic batting style and versatility make him a valuable asset for Punjab, who are looking to rebuild their campaign after a lackluster 2024 season.
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5. Sam Curran – CSK’s trust revived
Sam Curran’s IPL journey has been nothing short of a rollercoaster. After being the most expensive player in 2023, he returns to CSK for INR 2.40 crore. Curran played for CSK in 2020 and 2021, proving his worth as a reliable all-rounder. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him a key player in CSK’s quest for another title.
6. Bhuvneshwar Kumar – A RCB redemption story
Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s return to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is one of the most emotional stories of this auction. RCB spent INR 10.75 crore to bring back the veteran pacer, who started his IPL journey with the franchise in 2009 but didn’t get a chance to play during his first stint. After years of consistent performances for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), Bhuvneshwar’s experience will bolster RCB’s bowling lineup as they aim for their maiden title.
7. Ajinkya Rahane’s previous stint with KKR
In a move that has rekindled past associations, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) secured the services of Ajinkya Rahane for IPL 2025 at his base price of ₹1.75 crore during the auction. The experienced batter, known for his calm demeanor and classical stroke play, brings depth and stability to KKR’s batting lineup. Rahane previously played for KKR in the IPL 2022 season, featuring in seven matches. He accumulated 133 runs at an average of 19.00 and a strike rate of 103.90, with his highest score being 44. Although his numbers didn’t set the stage alight, his experience and versatility make him a valuable addition to the squad.
8. Tim David returns to Royal Challengers Bangalore for IPL 2025
Australian power-hitter Tim David has made his way back to RCB for the IPL 2025 season after being signed for INR 3 crore at the auction held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. David’s return marks a significant reunion with the franchise where he first began his IPL journey.
The bidding for David started with SRH initiating proceedings at his base price of INR 2 crore. However, RCB soon entered the fray, engaging in a competitive exchange with SRH before clinching the deal at INR 3 crore. David debuted in the IPL with RCB in 2021 but was limited to just one match. He later moved to Mumbai, where he emerged as a dangerous finisher.
9. Devdutt Padikkal makes IPL 2025 return to RCB
Devdutt Padikkal has rejoined RCB for INR 2 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction, marking a homecoming to the franchise where he debuted in 2020. Padikkal had two stellar seasons with RCB, scoring 473 and 411 runs, but struggled for consistency after moving to Rajasthan. His return offers a chance to rediscover his form alongside experienced players like Virat Kohli. RCB’s decision to bring him back highlights their faith in his potential to strengthen their top order and aid their quest for an elusive IPL title.
10. Avesh Khan joins Lucknow Super Giants for IPL 2025
Avesh Khan will return to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for INR 9.75 crore in the IPL 2025 season after a successful spell with Rajasthan Royals in 2024, where he claimed 19 wickets in 16 matches. Avesh was initially signed by Lucknow in the 2022 mega auction, where he picked up 18 wickets in his first season. Despite a dip in form in IPL 2023 with just 8 wickets, his performances in 2024 rekindled his reputation as a key pacer. Lucknow edged out Punjab in a bidding battle to secure Avesh’s services, looking to strengthen their bowling attack for the upcoming season.
