The IPL 2025 mega auction continued its high-stakes drama on Day 2, with intense bidding wars as teams scrambled to finalize their squads. Following the record-breaking Day 1, where Rishabh Pant became the most expensive player in IPL history at ₹27 crore to Lucknow SuperGiants, Day 2 also featured fierce competition for top talents. Here’s a rundown of the top five buys from Day 2:
1. Bhuvneshwar Kumar (India) – Sold to RCB for ₹10.75 crore
Bhuvneshwar Kumar emerged as the costliest buy of Day 2. Released by Sunrisers Hyderabad after a decade-long association, the seasoned pacer sparked a bidding war between Mumbai Indians and Lucknow SuperGiants, with the Royal Challengers Bangalore jumping in at the last moment, with their only bid they secured the swing king for ₹10.75 crore.
Bhuvneshwar, the IPL’s swing king, is a two-time purple cap holder who boasts 181 wickets in 176 matches with an economy rate of 7.56. Despite a subdued IPL 2024 season, where he took 11 wickets in 16 matches, his unmatched experience in powerplay and death overs makes him a strong addition for RCB.
2. Deepak Chahar (India) – Sold to MI for ₹9.25 crore
Mumbai Indians acquired Deepak Chahar after a bidding battle with Punjab Kings and Chennai Super Kings. Known for his ability to swing the new ball, Chahar was snapped up for ₹9.25 crore, marking his return to prominence after a mixed IPL 2024 season.
Chahar has claimed 77 wickets in 81 matches with a best of 4/13. His standout performance in IPL 2019, with 22 wickets in 17 matches, highlighted his ability to excel in high-pressure situations. With Mumbai’s need for a reliable powerplay bowler, Chahar’s addition strengthens their bowling lineup.
3. Akash Deep (India) – Sold to LSG for ₹8 crore
Lucknow SuperGiants secured Akash Deep after an intense bidding war with Chennai Super Kings and Punjab Kings, sealing the deal at ₹8 crore. Despite limited opportunities in past IPL seasons, the 26-year-old has shown flashes of brilliance, including his best figures of 3/45 in 2022.
With 7 wickets in 8 IPL matches at an economy rate of 11.67, Akash’s raw potential and pace make him a strategic acquisition for LSG. However, he will need to work on consistency and control to make a significant impact in the upcoming season.
4. Mukesh Kumar (India) – Retained by DC for ₹8 crore via RTM
Delhi Capitals exercised their Right to Match (RTM) card to retain Mukesh Kumar after a bidding war with Punjab Kings. The pacer’s stellar IPL 2024 season, where he bagged 17 wickets in 10 matches at a strike rate of 12.5, played a key role in DC’s decision.
Mukesh’s overall IPL tally stands at 24 wickets in 20 matches, with a best of 3/14. While his economy rate of 10.43 remains an area for improvement, his knack for taking wickets at crucial junctures makes him a valuable asset for Delhi.
5. Marco Jansen (South Africa) – Sold to PBKS for ₹7 crore
Punjab Kings outbid Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans to secure Marco Jansen for ₹7 crore. The South African all-rounder brings versatility to PBKS, with 20 IPL wickets in 21 matches and a best of 3/25.
Although Jansen’s IPL 2024 season was underwhelming with just 1 wicket in 3 matches, his 2023 performance, where he claimed 10 wickets in 8 matches, showcased his potential. His recent blistering 17-ball 54 in a T20I against India further highlighted his ability to contribute with the bat, making him a valuable all-round option.