In an electrifying bidding war during the IPL 2025 mega auction in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, South African pace sensation Kagiso Rabada was snapped up by Gujarat Titans (GT) for a staggering ₹10.75 crore.
Starting with a base price of ₹2 crore, Rabada's auction saw fierce competition, showcasing the immense value of his lethal bowling skills.The bidding frenzy kicked off with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) throwing the first bid, but it wasn’t long before GT joined the tussle.

The bid rapidly soared past ₹3 crore, with Mumbai Indians (MI) entering the fray and escalating the competition to ₹5.25 crore. Rabada, who has represented MI in their global franchises, became the focal point of a bidding war as MI relentlessly pursued him, taking the bid to ₹8.25 crore.
Just when MI seemed poised to win, RCB reignited the contest, pushing it to ₹8.50 crore. However, Gujarat Titans weren't backing down. A gripping back-and-forth ensued between GT and RCB, with MI eventually bowing out. Finally, RCB tapped out at ₹10.50 crore, leaving GT victorious at ₹10.75 crore.
Punjab Kings (PBKS), Rabada's former team, opted not to exercise their Right to Match (RTM) card, leaving the star bowler free to join GT.
Rabada, one of the finest pacers in the T20 circuit, brings a wealth of experience and an impressive IPL track record to the Gujarat Titans. In 80 IPL matches, he has claimed 117 wickets at an average of 21.96 and a strike rate of 15.5. Known for his blistering pace, pinpoint yorkers, and deceptive variations, Rabada has been a match-winner for his teams, including a Purple Cap-winning season in 2020 with 30 wickets.
Here’s a table summarizing Kagiso Rabada's IPL auction and retention prices over the years:
| Year | Team | Price (INR) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | Delhi Daredevils | ₹5 crore | First IPL contract at age 21; made an instant impact with his pace. |
| 2018 | Delhi Daredevils | - | Missed the season due to injury but retained by the franchise. |
| 2019 | Delhi Capitals | ₹4.2 crore | Retained; claimed 25 wickets in 12 matches, emerging as a top performer. |
| 2020 | Delhi Capitals | ₹4.2 crore | Retained; won the Purple Cap with 30 wickets in 17 matches. |
| 2021 | Delhi Capitals | ₹4.2 crore | Retained; continued to lead the team's bowling attack effectively. |
| 2022 | Punjab Kings | ₹9.25 crore | Bought in the mega auction; secured 23 wickets in his debut PBKS season. |
| 2023 | Punjab Kings | ₹9.25 crore | Retained; played only six matches, taking 11 wickets. |
| 2024 | Punjab Kings | ₹9.25 crore | Retained; took 11 wickets in 13 matches. |
| 2025 | Gujarat Titans | ₹10.75 crore | Acquired in the mega auction after a bidding war with RCB and MI. |
This acquisition significantly bolsters Gujarat Titans’ bowling arsenal as they aim for another title. Rabada's inclusion adds firepower and consistency to their lineup, enhancing their chances of dominating the upcoming season.
With this mega signing, the Gujarat Titans have made their intentions clear: they’re going all out for IPL glory in 2025. Fans can now look forward to seeing Kagiso Rabada deliver his trademark thunderbolts in the Titans’ colors.