The second day of the IPL 2025 auction saw intense bidding wars. There were surprises and unexpected results as teams fought for top talent. Some players fetched higher-than-expected bids. But, some surprising decisions left fans and experts stunned.
Here, we break down the top three shockers from Day 2 of the mega auction.
RCB Skips RTM for Will Jacks
A big surprise on Day 2 was when RCB did not use their Right to Match (RTM) card for English all-rounder Will Jacks.
Jacks was key to RCB’s resurgence in IPL 2024. He excelled in the top order with critical performances. RCB let him go to Mumbai Indians for INR 5.25 crore. They didn’t try to keep him, despite his contributions.
Given his batting and ability to balance the lineup, many expected RCB to secure Jacks. This decision raised eyebrows. RCB has struggled with consistency in recent seasons. Letting go of a proven performer was undoubtedly the biggest shocker of Day 2.
LSG Splurge INR 8 Crore on Akash Deep
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) made headlines by spending INR 8 crore on Indian pacer Akash Deep. The 26-year-old recently earned a spot in the Indian Test team. It boosted his reputation in the domestic circuit.
However, Akash Deep’s IPL track record paints a different picture. During his stint with RCB, he had an economy rate of 11.67, making him an expensive bowler in the tournament. Despite this, LSG aggressively bid for him. They thought his skills might suit the slower pitches at Ekana Stadium. They favored a faster pace at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.
The franchise may have a strategy for him. But, the high price for a player with inconsistent IPL performances was a shock.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar Fetches INR 10.75 Crore
Veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar turned heads after RCB paid INR 10.75 crore to get him. Kumar, a new-ball specialist, is one of the best IPL opening bowlers.
RCB’s bowling has been its Achilles’ heel. So, the franchise is prioritizing experienced pacers this season. However, some fans questioned the high price for Kumar. They cited his age and inconsistent performances in recent IPL seasons.
The move shows RCB’s drive to fix their weak bowling. But, the high price for the veteran bowler surprised many.
Day 2 of the IPL 2025 auction was full of surprises. Bold moves and unexpected decisions dominated the headlines. The day’s highlights were RCB’s choices. They chose not to retain Will Jacks. LSG made a high bid for Akash Deep. RCB then splurged on Bhuvneshwar Kumar.
