IPL Auction 2025: Aakash Chopra kicks aside Mohammed Siraj, predicts top 5 most expensive pacers

The upcoming highly anticipated IPL 2025 mega auction is already creating a lot of buzz, and Aakash Chopra has made waves by predicting that Arshdeep Singh will emerge as the most expensive pacer of the two-day event in Jeddah on November 24 and 25.

The former Indian batter’s bold claim comes as a surprise, as many expected Mohammed Siraj, who was recently released by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), to top the chart as the most expensive bowler at the upcoming IPL 2025 mega auction in Saudi Arabia.

Aakash Chopra predicts Arshdeep Singh to fetch INR 18 crore at the IPL 2025 Mega Auction

Well, Arshdeep Singh, who is known for his impeccable death-bowling skills and consistency, is all set to attract massive bids at the mega auction after being released by the Punjab Kings (PBKS), with Aakash Chopra predicting the Indian pacer could even surpass the INR 18-crore mark at the upcoming IPL 2025 mega auction.

IPL Auction 2025: Mohammad Kaif exposes Ricky Ponting vs Sourav Ganguly feud at Delhi Capitals

He pointed out that Arshdeep Singh’s impressive performances for Punjab Kings (PBSK) in recent IPL seasons and for India in the white-ball cricket make him a hot property, with franchises likely to engage in fierce bidding wars to sign the Punjab lad.

Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube channel: “At No. 1, I have kept Arshdeep Singh. There is no doubt about that. He can even go up to 18 crores. People are saying that a bowler might not get 18 crores, but he should get it. He might end up playing for PBKS one more time because they have a lot of money.”

Interestingly, the cricket pundit overlooked Mohammed Siraj, as he reckoned that seasoned Indian campaigners like Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Harshal Patel are also expected to spark bidding wars at the IPL 2025 mega auction. Bhuvneshwar Kumar's reputation for consistency and experience as a T20 specialist could see him land a lucrative deal.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar will earn a lot of money at the auction: Aakash Chopra

Meanwhile, Harshal Patel, a proven wicket-taker and death-over specialist, remains a valuable asset for any franchise, with his ability to deliver in high-pressure situations, according to Chopra. He further went on to predict that Gujarat Titans (GT) might use their Right to Match (RTM) card to bring the Indian pacer Mohammed Shami back into the folds.

Read Also: IPL Auction 2025: Rishabh Pant shocks Sunil Gavaskar, DC with explosive revelation on non-retention

The commentator further added, “At No. 4, I feel Bhuvneshwar Kumar will earn a lot of money. His bowling is extremely consistent and he is a wonderful character. Everyone loves him a lot. I am putting him at No. 4, but don't be surprised if he is at No. 3 or No. 2. At No. 2, Harshal Patel will once again take a lot of money. He was the 'Purple' Patel last year as well. He is a genuine wicket-taker. He bowls better at the death than many of the current Indian bowlers.”

Mohammed Shami recently made a stunning comeback in red-ball cricket, and he is expected to play in the upcoming Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy tournament, so his stocks will certainly rise at the upcoming IPL 2025 mega auction despite lingering concerns about his fitness.

Chopra feels Mitchell Starc could be among the top 5 pacers at the IPL 2025 Auction

Among international stars, Aakash Chopra predicted that South Africa’s Kagiso Rabada and Australia’s Mitchell Starc are expected to be hot picks. Both players bring unmatched pace and wicket-taking ability to the table, making them prime targets for teams looking to bolster their bowling attack.

Chopra signed off by saying, “At No. 5, I have kept Kagiso Rabada's name. Rabada will come at the start and be expensive as well. I feel he will take five to six crores at least. Mitchell Starc could also be there here. I don't think Mitchell Starc will be among the top three.