Rishabh Pant Breaks All Records, Sold to Lucknow Super Giants for ₹27 Crore

Rishabh Pant: The New Face of Lucknow Super Giants

In a groundbreaking moment at the IPL 2025 Auction, Rishabh Pant shattered all records, becoming the most expensive player in IPL history. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) secured the dynamic wicketkeeper-batter for a staggering ₹27 crore after an intense bidding war, surpassing the previous record set earlier in the auction by Shreyas Iyer. Pant’s addition makes him not only the marquee signing of the auction but also the probable captain for LSG’s upcoming campaign.

A Record-Breaking Bidding War

Pant’s auction journey began at a base price of ₹2 crore, with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) making the first move. Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) quickly joined the fray, sparking a fierce contest. As the bid surged past ₹10 crore, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) entered the race, adding to the excitement.

• Milestone at ₹20 crore: The battle reached new heights when SRH pushed the bid to ₹20 crore, only for LSG to respond at ₹20.75 crore.

• RTM Drama: Delhi Capitals (DC), Pant’s former team, exercised their Right to Match (RTM) at ₹20.75 crore, but their hold on the player was short-lived as LSG raised the stakes to ₹27 crore.

• Final Bid: DC eventually bowed out, leaving Pant with LSG in a historic deal.

Why Pant Commanded ₹27 Crore

Rishabh Pant’s reputation as one of the most explosive players in T20 cricket, coupled with his proven leadership skills, made him the hottest property in the IPL 2025 Auction. His fearless stroke play, quick adaptability, and game-changing abilities are unmatched. Here’s why franchises were willing to break the bank for him:

1. Dynamic Wicketkeeper-Batter: Pant offers unparalleled firepower in the middle order and can turn the tide of a game within a few overs.

2. Captaincy Material: With experience leading Delhi Capitals and the Indian national team in select matches, Pant brings a winning mindset to any squad.

3. Fan Favorite: Pant’s charisma and audacious gameplay make him a crowd-puller, boosting both team morale and brand value.

LSG’s Winning Move

Lucknow Super Giants, under the ownership of Sanjiv Goenka, made a bold statement with this acquisition. Pant’s addition not only strengthens their squad but positions him as a leader who can inspire a title-winning campaign.

• Captaincy Role: With LSG in search of a long-term captain, Pant’s leadership skills and ability to handle high-pressure situations make him the perfect candidate.

• Core Building: Pant joins an already formidable lineup, adding firepower to a team eager to claim their maiden IPL title.

Auction Highlights

1. Base Price: ₹2 crore

2. Initial Bidders: LSG, RCB

3. Key Contestants: LSG, SRH, and DC

4. Record-Breaking Final Price: ₹27 crore

Historical Context

Pant’s ₹27 crore deal marks the highest-ever bid in IPL history, eclipsing the previous ₹26.75 crore paid for Shreyas Iyer earlier in the same auction. This record-breaking figure underscores the growing financial stakes in the IPL and Pant’s stature as a global cricket superstar.

What’s Next for LSG and Pant

With this historic signing, Lucknow Super Giants have made their intentions clear: they are in it to win it. Pant is expected to not only dominate with his bat but also take charge as the captain, bringing his aggressive yet calculated style of play to the fore.

• LSG’s Title Aspirations: Pant’s addition could be the missing piece in LSG’s quest for their first IPL title.

• Pant’s Leadership Challenge: Leading a new team in a high-pressure league will test Pant’s mettle as a captain and player.

Quick Facts About Rishabh Pant’s IPL 2025 Deal

• Sold To: Lucknow Super Giants

• Final Price: ₹27 crore

• Base Price: ₹2 crore

• Record: Most expensive player in IPL history

Rishabh Pant’s ₹27 crore price tag is a testament to his immense value in T20 cricket. Lucknow Super Giants have placed a massive bet on Pant, and fans are eagerly waiting to see how he leads the team in IPL 2025. This historic auction moment sets the tone for what promises to be one of the most competitive IPL seasons yet.