As the IPL 2025 mega auction approaches, Rishabh Pant’s release from Delhi Capitals has set the stage for an intense bidding war. Scheduled to take place on November 24-25 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, the auction will see all ten franchises competing for top talent. Among the notable players, Pant stands out as a highly sought-after wicketkeeper-batsman. Here’s a look at the three teams most likely to target him.
Punjab Kings, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Chennai Super Kings likely to lead the race for the star wicketkeeper in the upcoming IPL auction
- Punjab Kings (PBKS)
Punjab Kings, holding the largest purse of Rs 110.5 crore, may have the strongest interest in acquiring Pant. With only two players retained—Shashank Singh and Prabhsimran Singh—the franchise has the flexibility to build a core around Pant. Moreover, head coach Ricky Ponting’s previous connection with Pant at Delhi Capitals adds to the potential for a powerful coach-captain pairing. - Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)
RCB, with Rs 83 crore available, is also in a favorable position to bid aggressively for Pant. The team is seeking a reliable wicketkeeper after Dinesh Karthik’s departure, and Pant’s batting skills would complement the RCB lineup, which includes stars like Virat Kohli and Rajat Patidar. A possible showdown with Punjab Kings could elevate Pant’s price to record-breaking heights. - Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
Though CSK’s purse is smaller at Rs 55 crore, they are expected to make a strategic play for Pant. Speculation has grown around Pant potentially donning the yellow jersey, with former CSK star Suresh Raina hinting at a Dhoni-Pant mentorship—a move that would strengthen CSK’s squad and attract fans.
