IPL 2025 Auction: Top Five Wicketkeeper-Batsmen Expected to Ignite Bidding Wars

With their explosive batting, reliable wicketkeeping skills, and extensive experience in the IPL, each of these players has become a coveted choice in the highly competitive auction among franchises.

Rishabh Pant, known for his fearless batting and leadership potential, is expected to be on the radar of many franchises including Delhi Capitals who may use the right-to-match option to buy him back. With consistent IPL performances, Pant has cemented his reputation as a game-changer. Having captained the Delhi Capitals in previous seasons, his leadership potential adds a premium to his already formidable skill set. Pant boasts a career IPL record of over 3284 runs at a strike rate of 148.93.

KL Rahul is another player expected to ignite the auction. Known for his adaptability, Rahul can anchor innings or deliver aggressive starts. In the IPL over the years, he has amassed over 4,683 runs, at a strike rate of 134.61. Despite being released by Lucknow Super Giants, his consistency as a batter and captaincy credentials make him an attractive pick at the IPL 2025 auction.

Jos Buttler, a dominant force at the top of the order, has been a cornerstone for Rajasthan Royals in recent years. With over 3,000 IPL runs, including seven centuries, Buttler’s ability to dismantle bowling attacks is unmatched. Despite a dip in his IPL form over the last two years, his international performances, especially for England in T20Is, reaffirm his class. Franchises will bank on Buttler’s experience and match-winning potential.

Quinton de Kock has proved his worth in the IPL over the years across franchises like Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants. With over 900 runs in the last three IPL seasons, and vast international experience, de Kock is an attractive top-order option at the IPL mega auction. De Kock’s ability to counter different bowling attacks in the powerplay, combined with his experience across IPL franchises, makes him an appealing choice for teams looking to bolster their batting.

Ishan Kishan, the aggressive wicketkeeper-batter, may have faced a form slump in the 2024 season but remains a potent force. Known for his fearless approach and adaptability, Kishan has accumulated 1,192 runs over the last three IPL seasons. His left-handed batting provides balance, making him an ideal fit for teams seeking firepower at the top or middle order​.