- The franchise has decided to release Shreyas Iyer, the player who won the title for Kolkata Knight Riders. Many big teams were seen running after him in the mega auction…
This time, a lot of money is being spent in the mega auction going on for IPL 2025. All the franchises have once again sat at the auction table to rebuild their teams and are bidding on the players. Last year, the franchise had decided to release Shreyas Iyer, the player who won the title for Kolkata Knight Riders. Many big teams are seen running after him in the mega auction. So let us tell you how Shreyas Iyer fared in the auction….
Shreyas Iyer became rich in the mega auction
Source: ESPN Cricinfo
Shreyas Iyer was seen playing for Kolkata Knight Riders in the 2024 IPL. While captaining, Iyer led KKR to the title but the franchise has decided to release him despite this. Obviously, many teams are targeting the trophy-winning captain in the auction. Delhi and Kolkata were seen fighting for Iyer. The bidding started at Rs 2 crore and ended at Rs 26.75 crore.
3 franchises looked crazy for Iyer
Shreyas Iyer had won the title for Kolkata Knight Riders last year, so it was obvious that a big bid would be seen for him in this year’s auction. In this year’s mega auction, Iyer emerged as the most expensive player in IPL history. Punjab Kings, Kolkata and Delhi franchises were seen fighting for him. Ultimately, in this clash between Punjab and Delhi, the Punjab team won and included Iyer in their team for Rs 26.75 crore.
Shreyas Iyer’s IPL performance
So far, Shreyas Iyer has been seen playing for two teams in the IPL and he has also captained both the teams. He started his career with Delhi in the year 2015. After this, he had to lose the captaincy of Delhi due to injury. In the year 2022, he was added to the Kolkata team and in 2024, he captained the team and won the IPL trophy. Iyer has scored 3127 runs in 115 innings of IPL and during this his average has been 32.23.
Base Price- Rs 2 Crore
Amount to be received- 26.75 crores
Buying Team- Punjab Kings
The Indian Premier League (IPL) auction has always been a spectacle of jaw-dropping bids and dramatic decisions. This year, history was made when Shreyas Iyer became the most expensive player in IPL history, signed for an astronomical ₹26.75 crore. The franchise making this bold move? One of the league’s most underperforming teams, desperate to turn their fortunes around.
The Record-Breaking Bid
Shreyas Iyer, known for his elegant stroke play and calm demeanor under pressure, has had a stellar run in recent years. However, such a high bid raised eyebrows, as even established stars like Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni have never breached the ₹25 crore mark. The intense bidding war underscored the immense faith placed in Iyer’s leadership skills and batting prowess.
Why the High Price Tag?
- Proven Leader: Iyer previously captained Delhi Capitals and played a crucial role in transforming the team into title contenders. His tactical acumen is well-documented.
- Middle-Order Strength: Teams often struggle to find dependable middle-order batsmen who can anchor innings and accelerate when needed. Iyer checks both boxes.
- Indian Core: A strong Indian player is a prized asset in the IPL, ensuring stability in the playing XI.
The Flop Franchise’s Gamble
The franchise that secured Iyer has had a history of poor performances, failing to make significant playoff appearances. Critics often dub them a “flop team” due to their inconsistent strategies and constant shuffling of players. With Iyer onboard, the team is clearly aiming for a complete overhaul.
Challenges Ahead
While the price tag reflects confidence, it also adds immense pressure. Shreyas Iyer will have to:
- Deliver consistent performances with the bat.
- Revive the morale and unity of the squad.
- Bring the elusive title home for a franchise starved of success.
Fans and Critics React
Social media has been abuzz since the announcement. While some applaud the team’s aggressive approach, others question if the investment is worth it. Many feel the franchise should have prioritized all-rounders or bowlers, given their historically weak bowling lineup.
Will It Pay Off?
History shows that big money doesn’t always translate to big results in the IPL. Players like Chris Morris and Yuvraj Singh were also signed for record-breaking sums but struggled to justify their price tags. The onus is now on Shreyas Iyer to prove his worth and lead the team to glory.
Conclusion
Shreyas Iyer’s record-breaking bid is a testament to his growing stature in cricket. For the franchise, it’s a gamble that could either redefine their legacy or reinforce their reputation as underachievers. All eyes will be on Iyer as he gears up for the most challenging and rewarding season of his career.
Let us know your thoughts—will Iyer’s entry mark a turning point for this franchise, or is this another high-stakes gamble destined to fail?
