The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently revealed that more than 1,500 players have registered for the highly anticipated IPL 2025 Mega Auction, scheduled to take place on November 24 and 25 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This record-breaking number includes a mix of experienced international stars, rising talents, and players from Associate Nations, who are all hoping to secure a place in the world’s biggest T20 league.
In total, 1,574 players have expressed their interest in entering the auction, with 409 overseas players from 13 different countries, including 30 from Associate Nations. Among the overseas stars, many big names are set to go under the hammer, especially those who were not retained by their previous franchises. BCCI's final auction list will undergo revisions after receiving feedback from the 10 franchises, which will help to narrow down the player pool based on specific team requirements and strategies.
Several notable international players have registered with the highest base price of Rs 2 Crore, including established T20 stars and veteran cricketers. This top-tier list features names like England’s Jos Buttler and Jofra Archer, Australia's Glenn Maxwell and Mitchell Starc, South Africa’s Kagiso Rabada, and New Zealand’s Trent Boult, all of whom have proven track records in the IPL and are expected to attract significant interest from franchises. Additionally, Australian Test specialist Nathan Lyon, who has never played in the IPL before, has made headlines by entering the auction at the same top base price. Lyon’s entry adds a fresh dynamic to the auction pool, as he seeks to demonstrate his skills in the shorter format, particularly given his experience and reputation as one of Australia’s most successful spinners.
Alongside these overseas stars, 23 Indian players have also registered at the Rs 2 Crore base price, including marquee names like Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, and Shreyas Iyer. This high-profile Indian lineup is anticipated to draw substantial bids, as local players are particularly valued in the IPL due to their familiarity with conditions and the league’s regulations on the number of overseas players allowed in a playing XI.
In addition to these players, other big names like Steve Smith, Marcus Stoinis, Mitchell Marsh, and Jonny Bairstow have registered, further adding to the depth of the Rs 2 Crore category. The diverse pool includes a mix of explosive batsmen, reliable bowlers, and versatile all-rounders, giving franchises multiple options for building a balanced squad. Given the competitive nature of the league and new dynamics introduced each season, these seasoned players will likely become key targets for franchises aiming to strengthen their squads with proven performers.
The final auction list will provide clarity on confirmed participants closer to the event, following any withdrawals or changes. Meanwhile, the high interest from franchises suggests that this year’s auction could witness record-breaking bids and an intense battle among teams to secure the services of top players.
