Here’s a breakdown of the players generating the highest search volume in IPL 2025, based on auction dynamics, on-field performances, and fan interest:
1. Rishabh Pant (Lucknow Super Giants)
Price: ₹27 crore (most expensive player in IPL history) 349
Role: Wicketkeeper-batter, Captain
Why Searched: Pant’s record-breaking ₹27 crore deal with LSG and his aggressive batting style made headlines. Despite underwhelming form early in the season, fans are eager to see if he can replicate his past heroics as a leader and finisher.
2. Shreyas Iyer (Punjab Kings)
Price: ₹26.75 crore 349
Role: Middle-order batter, Captain
Why Searched: The IPL 2024-winning captain’s high-profile move to Punjab Kings, coupled with his ₹26.75 crore price tag, sparked debates about his ability to deliver under pressure. His tactical acumen and leadership are under scrutiny.
3. Venkatesh Iyer (Kolkata Knight Riders)
Price: ₹23.75 crore 349
Role: All-rounder
Why Searched: Retained by KKR for a hefty sum, his dual role as a power-hitter and medium-pace bowler has drawn attention. Fans are tracking his consistency after a slow start to the season.
4. Arshdeep Singh (Punjab Kings)
Price: ₹18 crore 349
Role: Death-over specialist
Why Searched: Known for his pinpoint yorkers, Arshdeep’s ₹18 crore retention by Punjab Kings highlighted his value. His economy rate and ability to handle pressure in crunch moments keep him in the spotlight.
5. Yuzvendra Chahal (Punjab Kings)
Price: ₹18 crore 349
Role: Leg-spinner
Why Searched: Chahal’s move to Punjab Kings after a stellar career with RR raised eyebrows. His recent struggles with form contrast sharply with his reputation as India’s leading T20 wicket-taker, driving curiosity.
6. Jos Buttler (Gujarat Titans)
Price: ₹15.75 crore 34
Role: Opener
Why Searched: The explosive English batter’s shift from Rajasthan Royals to Gujarat Titans (₹15.75 crore) has fans debating whether he can revive his 2022 MVP form. His match-winning potential keeps searches high.
7. KL Rahul (Delhi Capitals)
Price: ₹14 crore 3410
Role: Top-order batter, Wicketkeeper
Why Searched: Rahul’s consistency (4,683 IPL runs) and leadership credentials made his ₹14 crore acquisition by Delhi Capitals a talking point. His adaptability across formats fuels interest.
8. Jofra Archer (Rajasthan Royals)
Price: ₹12.50 crore 47
Role: Fast bowler
Why Searched: Archer’s return to RR after injury setbacks has fans hopeful for his 150+ kph deliveries. His fitness and ability to spearhead RR’s bowling attack are key search drivers.
9. Virat Kohli (Royal Challengers Bengaluru)
Role: Top-order batter
Why Searched: Despite not being among the top auction buys, Kohli remains a fan favorite. His quest for a maiden IPL title and recent form (two fifties in IPL 2025) keep him trending 7.
10. Glenn Maxwell (Punjab Kings)
Price: ₹2 crore base (unsold in 2025 auction) 610
Role: All-rounder
Why Searched: Maxwell’s IPL 2025 struggles (19 ducks in IPL history) and surprise exclusion from the auction list generated debates about his high-risk style and future in the league.
Key Trends Driving Searches
Legacy Players: Kohli’s enduring popularity transcends auction numbers, reflecting his cultural impact
Auction Dynamics: Record-breaking bids for Pant, Shreyas Iyer, and Venkatesh Iyer dominated pre-season buzz 39.
Underperformance vs. Hype: Players like Pant and Chahal are under scrutiny for failing to justify their price tags 69.
Comeback Stories: Archer’s return and Buttler’s franchise switch sparked curiosity about their revival 47.
