The top 5 steal deals in the IPL 2025 auction included a world-class spinner for INR 2.40 crore, a dynamic wicketkeeper-batter for INR 3.60 crore, a seasoned opener for INR 2 crore, a powerful all-rounder for INR 4.20 crore, and a reliable all-rounder for INR 3.2 crore.
5. Adam Zampa (INR 2.4 crore, Sunrisers Hyderabad)
Sunrisers Hyderabad pulled off a masterstroke in the IPL 2025 auction by securing Australian leg-spinner Adam Zampa for just INR 2.40 crore. Acquired near his base price of INR 2 crore after a brief contest with Rajasthan Royals, Zampa’s addition is being hailed as one of the smartest buys of the season.
As Australia’s leading T20I wicket-taker with 117 wickets at an economy of 7.16, Zampa’s credentials are stellar. His IPL journey began in 2016 with Rising Pune Supergiants, where he delivered a career-best 6/19 — ironically against SRH. With 341 wickets across 280 T20 matches, combined with IPL experience from RCB and RR, Zampa’s inclusion at this bargain price could prove to be a game-changing move for SRH.
4. Quinton de Kock (INR 3.6 crore, Kolkata Knight Riders)
Defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders made a brilliant move in the IPL 2025 auction by securing South African wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock for just INR 3.60 crore. With Lucknow Super Giants opting not to use their RTM card, KKR capitalized on the opportunity to bolster their lineup.
De Kock is set to take over the wicketkeeping duties following Phil Salt’s departure and could form a dynamic opening partnership with Sunil Narine. With 3,157 runs, including two centuries in 107 IPL matches, his wealth of experience makes him a pivotal addition. At this price, de Kock’s signing could be a game-changer for KKR’s title defense.
3. Faf Du Plessis (INR 2 crore, Delhi Capitals)
Former South African captain Faf du Plessis has found a new home with Delhi Capitals for the IPL 2025 season. The veteran batter was signed for INR 2 crore after Royal Challengers Bangalore opted against using their Right to Match card.
A proven IPL champion with two titles (2018 and 2021), du Plessis brings a wealth of experience from his successful stints with Chennai Super Kings and RCB. Over 145 IPL matches, he has amassed 4,571 runs, including 37 half-centuries, showcasing his consistency at the highest level.
Joining forces with compatriot Tristan Stubbs, du Plessis is set to add stability and depth to Delhi’s batting lineup, making him a crucial asset for their campaign in 2025.
2. Glenn Maxwell (INR 4.2 crore, Punjab Kings)
In the IPL 2025 mega auction held in Jeddah, Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell found his way back to Punjab Kings with a deal worth INR 4.20 crore. Released by Royal Challengers Bangalore after three seasons, Maxwell became a hot topic during the auction, drawing bids from Sunrisers Hyderabad and Chennai Super Kings before PBKS secured him at a surprisingly modest price.
Maxwell’s IPL resume boasts 2,771 runs at an explosive strike rate of 156.73 and 37 wickets across 134 matches. Having previously represented Punjab from 2014 to 2017 and again in 2020, Maxwell is no stranger to the franchise. His return bolsters PBKS’s overseas lineup, adding firepower and experience for the upcoming season.
1. Washington Sundar (INR 3.2 crore, Gujarat Titans)
Indian all-rounder Washington Sundar emerged as a standout steal of the IPL 2025 mega-auction, acquired by Gujarat Titans for just INR 3.2 crore. Despite his recent stellar performances in Test cricket, Sundar surprisingly attracted bids from only two franchises, with Lucknow Super Giants bowing out early.
The Tamil Nadu player boasts a T20I record of 47 wickets from 52 matches at an economy of 6.87, making him a valuable asset in both powerplay and middle overs. Sundar’s addition strengthens GT’s Indian core alongside Sai Sudharsan and Shahrukh Khan, setting up the defending finalists for a strong campaign in the upcoming season.