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The first day of the IPL 2025 auctions witnessed a flurry of activity as franchises spent a combined INR 47.95 crore to bolster their squads. The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) made the most significant splash, securing Rishabh Pant for a record-breaking INR 27 crore. This bold move, along with the acquisition of David Miller (INR 7.5 crore) and other key players like Avesh Khan (INR 9.75 crore), demonstrates LSG's ambition to challenge for the title. However, their current squad still presents some gaps. Their middle order appears congested, and they lack a definitive opening batsman. Day 2 will be crucial for LSG to address these deficiencies, potentially targeting both domestic and overseas players to fill these roles, and adding spin bowling depth to support Ravi Bishnoi.
The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), having retained only three players, entered the auction with a significant rebuilding project. With INR 30.65 crore remaining in their purse, they engaged in bidding wars for numerous players. While they missed out on several high-profile Indian players, they successfully acquired impactful players like Phil Salt (INR 11.50 crore), Jitesh Sharma (INR 11 crore), and Josh Hazlewood (INR 12.50 crore). Their approach demonstrated a focus on strengthening their batting and bowling departments. Despite their significant spending, RCB still requires substantial squad building. A left-handed middle-order batter is a priority, along with additional overseas players for a balanced team, and further Indian batting options to cover several positions. The sheer size of their remaining purse suggests a very active Day 2.
The Rajasthan Royals (RR), having already retained a strong core, adopted a more measured approach to the auction. Their focus was primarily on bolstering their bowling attack. The acquisition of Jofra Archer for INR 12.5 crore was a significant highlight. However, unlike some other teams, they opted not to engage in intense bidding wars for many players. While they added valuable spin bowling options in Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana, their spending was more conservative. Their remaining needs are relatively modest compared to other teams. They need a second opener and a power-hitter to support Shimron Hetmyer. Further strengthening their bowling attack, especially adding back-up options to their existing strong talent, remains a priority for Day 2.
The Delhi Capitals (DC) experienced a highly successful first day, making strategic acquisitions to address their squad's weaknesses. Without retaining a single pacer, they successfully secured Mitchell Starc (INR 11.75 crore) in their first buy, solidifying their fast-bowling department. Further additions of T Natarajan and Mohit Sharma enhanced this strength. Their acquisition of KL Rahul (INR 14 crore) for their opening slot, along with the strategic use of the Right to Match (RTM) card for Jake Fraser-McGurk, showcased DC's shrewd planning. They also strengthened their middle order with Harry Brook and Ashutosh Sharma. Day 2 will likely see them seeking an off-spinner, another high-quality overseas fast bowler, and versatile all-rounders to add further balance and depth to their squad.
The Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) entered the auction with a smaller purse, reflecting their decision to retain a strong core from the previous season. Despite losing out on Arshdeep Singh after an RTM, they secured high-profile bowlers like Mohammed Shami (INR 10 crore) and Harshal Patel (INR 8 crore). The addition of Ishan Kishan (INR 11.25 crore) significantly bolstered their batting lineup. They also addressed their spin bowling weakness by acquiring both Rahul Chahar and Adam Zampa. With limited funds remaining, Day 2 will likely involve acquiring a couple more budget-friendly players to fill the remaining spots, with a focus on finding an additional batter and potentially one more overseas option.
The Chennai Super Kings (CSK), armed with a considerable purse, actively sought to reassemble former players. They brought back Ravichandran Ashwin (INR 9.75 crore), Devon Conway, and Rachin Ravindra. The addition of Rahul Tripathi strengthens their middle order. While they participated in bidding wars for several high-profile players, they avoided overspending. Notable additions included left-arm seamer Khaleel Ahmed and left-arm wrist spinner Noor Ahmad. Their focus for Day 2 will be on finding an overseas seam-bowling all-rounder with finishing skills, potentially through a multi-team competition for players like Sam Curran or Marco Jansen. They will also look for domestic and/or overseas batters to further reinforce the middle-order, and will aim to enhance squad depth with an Indian back-up wicketkeeper, additional Indian fast bowlers, and another overseas spinner.
In conclusion, Day 1 of the IPL 2025 auctions was characterized by a mixture of bold spending and strategic acquisitions. Teams approached the auction with different strategies, ranging from aggressive spending to more conservative, targeted additions. The remaining purse sizes and identified needs suggest a wide range of activity anticipated for Day 2, ultimately shaping the final compositions and competitive balance of the franchises for the upcoming season.
Source: IPL Auctions Day 1: What they did and what they need