During the auction day,the atmosphere inside Mumbai's Grand Hyatt was electric. The most elite cricket franchises had gathered, their owners seated in private war rooms, strategizing every move of the ILP 2025 Auction.
Months of planning, scouting, and forecasting led to this very moment. Every bid, every paddle raised, and every signed contract had the power to reshape an entire season.
Analysts, former cricketers, and fans worldwide were tuned in, following live updates on what was already becoming one of the most exciting auctions in ILP history.
The auction had seen some massive signings already:
▸ Rithik Sharma – snagged by Chennai Kings for ₹7.5 Crore.
▸ James Buttler – Mumbai Mavericks secured him for ₹9 Crore.
▸ Hardik Pandyaa – Returning to Gujarat Guardians for ₹10 Crore.
But despite these major purchases, the room bristled with anticipation for one particular name.
The screen flashed:
"Next up – RAJ (Base Price ₹50 Lakhs)"
