Shreyas Iyer goes to PBKS: Most expensive player in IPL

The IPL 2025 mega auction began with a bang. All eyes were on Shreyas Iyer, the star Indian middle-order batter. Iyer lived up to expectations as he broke all records, becoming the first Indian and the only player in IPL history to command a jaw-dropping bid of ₹26.75 crore. Delhi Capitals, Punjab Kings, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru were locked in an intense bidding war for the former IPL-winning captain before he was snapped up at this historic amount.

This milestone comes on the heels of Iyer’s scintillating knock in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy on November 23, where he hammered an unbeaten 130 off just 57 balls for Mumbai. Displaying masterful strokeplay, Iyer smashed 11 fours and 10 sixes, propelling Mumbai to a mammoth total of 250/4. The innings further solidified his reputation as one of the most sought-after players in T20 cricket.

Shreyas Iyer: The hottest pick in IPL 2025 auction

Shreyas Iyer’s record-breaking ₹26.75 crore bid marks a significant moment in IPL history. Iyer, who was surprisingly not retained by Kolkata Knight Riders after leading them to the IPL 2024 title, has consistently proven his worth as a dependable middle-order batter and a shrewd captain. The 29-year-old has played for Delhi Capitals and KKR in previous seasons, famously leading Delhi to the IPL final in 2020.

This time, Delhi Capitals were determined to bring back their former captain. Meanwhile, Punjab Kings, with Ricky Ponting at the helm, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, looking for a successor to Faf du Plessis, also entered the fray. With a base price of ₹2 crore, Iyer’s meteoric rise in value underscores his unparalleled impact on the game.

𝐒𝐇𝐄𝐑 🔄 𝐒𝐇𝐑𝐄𝐘𝐀𝐒! ♥️#ShreyasIyer #IPL2025Auction #PunjabKings pic.twitter.com/jpJHcXPepQ

— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) November 24, 2024

𝐒𝐡𝐫𝐞-YESSS! 🤩

Welcome to the den, paaji! ❤️#ShreyasIyer #IPL2025Auction #PunjabKings

— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) November 24, 2024

41 Cr ke purse ke saath 22 Cr ke bids dekhte hue hum… pic.twitter.com/KshLPw4iwe

— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) November 24, 2024

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The road ahead for Shreyas Iyer

Iyer’s historic auction moment wasn’t just about the money; it reflected his unmatched talent and leadership skills. As the IPL 2025 season looms, the player will have the added pressure of living up to his price tag. With franchises investing heavily, fans eagerly await how Iyer will lead and perform in the upcoming season.

From setting the stage ablaze in domestic cricket to creating history at the IPL auction, Shreyas Iyer’s journey is a testament to his grit and brilliance in the shortest format of the game.