As the cricketing world gears up for the IPL 2025 mega auction, anticipation is palpable among fans and franchises alike. The auction promises to be a thrilling spectacle, with teams looking to secure top talent to enhance their chances of lifting the coveted trophy. Among the standout players expected to attract significant attention is South African fast bowler Kagiso Rabada.
Known for his fiery pace, exceptional wicket-taking ability, and experience in high-pressure situations, Rabada has established himself as one of the premier bowlers in T20 cricket. His performances in the IPL have been nothing short of impressive, making him a hot commodity as franchises look to build competitive squads. Let us explore three teams that are likely to pursue Rabada aggressively during the auction, analysing their needs and how he fits into their plans.
3 franchises that would go hard for Kagiso Rabada
1.) Royal Challengers Bengaluru: The quest for bowling prowess
Royal Challengers Bengaluru have long been criticized for their bowling lineup, often overshadowed by its star-studded batting order. With Virat Kohli retained and a significant budget of ₹83 crore available, the franchise is keen to bolster their bowling attack. Rabada’s ability to take crucial wickets and bowl at high speeds makes him an ideal fit for RCB’s strategy. Former player AB de Villiers has emphasized the need for a strong bowling unit, suggesting that acquiring Rabada could transform RCB into a title contender. His previous IPL seasons saw him take 117 wickets in 80 matches, showcasing his capability to perform under pressure.
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2.) Punjab Kings: A new era awaits
The Punjab Kings enter the auction with the largest budget of ₹110.5 crore after retaining only two players. This financial flexibility allows them to pursue top-tier talent like Rabada aggressively. Having released him after IPL 2024, they may see this as an opportunity to bring back a proven performer. Rabada’s experience and skill would be invaluable as Punjab seeks to build a competitive squad capable of breaking its trophy drought. His performance in IPL 2024, where he took 11 wickets at an economy rate of 8.85, indicates his calibre to deliver at a high level in batting dominated conditions.
3.) Kolkata Knight Riders: Reinventing the attack
Kolkata Knight Riders are another franchise that could benefit significantly from Rabada’s addition. With a budget of ₹51 crore, they are looking to revamp their bowling attack after a lackluster previous season. Rabada’s pace and wicket-taking ability would complement KKR’s existing bowlers and provide the team with much-needed firepower in the death overs. His experience playing in high-pressure situations aligns perfectly with KKR’s ambitions for the upcoming season. Moreover, his familiarity with Indian conditions makes him an attractive option for KKR as they aim for greater consistency.
A strategic acquisition for success
Rabada is set to be one of the most sought-after players in the IPL 2025 mega auction. His previous performances and current form in T20 cricket position him as a valuable asset for franchises like RCB, Punjab Kings, and KKR. Each of these teams has unique needs that align with Rabada’s skill set—whether it’s RCB’s quest for bowling prowess, Punjab’s desire for redemption, or KKR’s need for reinvention. Securing Rabada could be pivotal not just for enhancing their bowling attacks but also for shaping their overall strategies as they aim for success in an increasingly competitive league. As fans eagerly await the auction day, it is clear that Rabada will play a significant role in determining which franchise emerges stronger in IPL 2025.