Rishabh Pant Poised to Shatter Mitchell Starc's IPL Auction Record in 2025

In a bold prediction that has caught the attention of cricket enthusiasts worldwide, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has suggested that Rishabh Pant, the dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman, is set to surpass Mitchell Starc's record as the most expensive player in Indian Premier League (IPL) history. During the IPL 2024 mini-auction, Australian pacer Mitchell Starc was acquired by Kolkata Knight Riders for a staggering INR 24.75 crore, setting a new benchmark for player valuations.

Starc's record purchase overshadowed that of his compatriot, Pat Cummins, who was bought by Sunrisers Hyderabad for INR 20.50 crore, making him the second most expensive acquisition. However, Pathan confidently took to his social media platform, X, formerly known as Twitter, to express his belief that Pant could exceed these figures in the upcoming 2025 mega auction. "Mitchell Starc’s auction record is in danger. @RishabhPant17 is ready to break it!" Pathan declared, igniting discussions across the cricketing community.

Rishabh Pant, known for his aggressive batting style and match-winning capabilities, was recently released by Delhi Capitals after an eight-year stint. Since his IPL debut in 2016, Pant quickly established himself as a formidable force, notably earning the Emerging Player of the Year award in 2018. That season, he amassed 684 runs across 14 matches, with an impressive average of 52.61 and a strike rate of 173.60, including one century and five half-centuries. Over his IPL career, Pant has accumulated 3,284 runs, featuring one century and 18 half-centuries, showcasing his consistent performance.

As the IPL governing council prepares for the 2025 mega auction, it has shortlisted 574 players, including prominent names such as Shreyas Iyer, Jos Buttler, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Yuzvendra Chahal, KL Rahul, and Marcus Stoinis, alongside Mitchell Starc. The auction, scheduled to take place on November 24 and 25 in Jeddah, will see ten franchises competing to fill 204 team spots, setting the stage for fierce bidding wars.

The upcoming auction not only promises to be a significant event in the cricket calendar but also highlights the evolving dynamics of player valuations in the IPL. With Pant's potential to break records, the auction could mark a new era of player investment, reflecting both the commercial and sporting importance of this T20 extravaganza.