The mega auction ahead of the 2025 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is set to take place this month. Even though the dates are not officially confirmed, the event is likely to be held on November 24 and 25 and the likely venue is Riyadh in Saudi Arabia. All 10 teams announced their retained player list on October 31 and Rishabh Pant was one of the few shock releases. Delhi Capitals parted ways with their captain for unknown reasons and the Indian wicketkeeper will be one of the most sought-after players in the auction. Let's take a look at the three teams who can target Pant in the auction:
1. Punjab Kings
Most likely, Punjab Kings will be adamant on adding Rishabh Pant to the team. They have Rs 110.5 crore left after retaining only two players - Shashank Singh and Prabhsimran Singh. Also, Ricky Ponting is their head coach, who has worked with Pant at Delhi Capitals since 2021. In fact, apart from the 2023 edition, the Pant-Ponting duo has served as captain and coach for the Delhi franchise. PBKS are very likely to buy Pant right from the start of the auction.
2. Royal Challengers Bangalore
Another team that can try to buy Rishabh Pant is Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), who have the second-highest purse - Rs 83 crore left. After Dinesh Karthik's exit, they need a wicketkeeper and Pant is the best option. A player like Pant can increase their batting options in the presence of Virat Kohli and Rajat Patidar. There could be a bidding war between RCB and PBKS for Pant and it remains to be seen if he becomes the most expensive player ever in IPL.
3. Chennai Super Kings
Chennai Super Kings also have a slight chance of buying Rishabh Pant in the auction. But they have only Rs 55 crore left and considering that Pant will be bought for Rs 18-20 crore, it looks difficult for the five-time champions to acquire him. However, recently Suresh Raina said that Pant is likely to wear the yellow jersey next season as he saw the cricketer with MS Dhoni during an event. Raina said on Jio Cinema, "I met MS Dhoni in Delhi, Pant was also there. I think something big is going to happen. Someone will wear the yellow jersey soon."
