The IPL 2025 auction underscored the strong demand for overseas openers, with franchises heavily investing in impactful players. Top picks included dynamic powerplay hitters, versatile wicketkeeper-batters, and spin-expert openers. These players are expected to excel on the tournament’s batting-friendly pitches, offering explosive starts and providing crucial stability in the top order. Their ability to dominate bowlers and adapt to different match situations makes them valuable long-term assets for their respective teams. With their skill sets, these openers are poised to be key contributors in the upcoming season.
1. Jos Buttler
Jos Buttler was one of the top openers in the IPL 2025 auction, drawing bids from four teams. Gujarat Titans (GT) outbid the competition, acquiring him for INR 15.25 crores. Known for his adaptability, Buttler excels against both pace and spin, seamlessly adjusting his game to different situations. His ability to dominate bowlers and anchor innings makes him an ideal T20 opener. Buttler’s presence in the top order adds significant depth and strength to GT’s lineup, and he is expected to be a key player in their pursuit of success in the upcoming season.
2. Phil Salt
Phil Salt’s stellar performances last season made him a hot commodity in the IPL 2025 auction. Following a fierce bidding war with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) secured him for INR 11.50 crores. A destructive batter against pace, Salt thrives in the powerplay, maximizing field restrictions to give his team explosive starts. With his proven track record and skillset, he is poised to excel on Bengaluru’s flat pitches, adding firepower to RCB’s top order.
3. Devon Conway
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) reacquired Devon Conway in the IPL 2025 auction for INR 6.25 crores. Partnering with Ruturaj Gaikwad, Conway will bolster CSK’s top order. Known for his excellent play against spin, he seamlessly adapts his game to provide both aggression and stability. His wicketkeeping skills further enhance his value, positioning him as a potential successor to MS Dhoni. With his versatile skill set, Conway is set to be a key contributor for CSK in the upcoming season, offering both leadership potential and consistency at the top of the order.
4. Quinton de Kock
Quinton de Kock became a valuable addition to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), acquired for INR 3.60 crores after outbidding Sunrisers Hyderabad and Mumbai Indians. A dynamic batter against pace, de Kock excels in capitalizing on powerplay overs, especially with his strength in the leg-side region. Additionally, his exceptional wicketkeeping skills make him a dual asset for KKR, adding both firepower at the top and reliability behind the stumps.
5. Jake Fraser-McGurk
Jake Fraser-McGurk is a fearless opener renowned for his aggressive approach, looking to hit every delivery for boundaries. His long reach and exceptional power allow him to consistently dominate bowlers, especially in the powerplay. He has delivered standout performances on flat decks like Delhi, where his attacking game has flourished. The batting-friendly pitches of the IPL are expected to further enhance his capabilities, making him a strong force at the top of the order. With his potential to be a match-winner, Jake is a promising long-term investment for any team, poised to make a significant impact in the tournament.
| Player | Team | Auction Price |
|---|---|---|
| Jos Buttler | Gujarat Titans (GT) | INR 15.25 crores |
| Phil Salt | Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) | INR 11.50 crores |
| Devon Conway | Chennai Super Kings (CSK) | INR 6.25 crores |
| Quinton de Kock | Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) | INR 3.60 crores |
| Jake Fraser-McGurk | Unassigned | N/A |