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Devdutt Padikkal Becomes Most Expensive Player At Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 Auction

Sakshi Sharma

Devdutt Padikkal in IPL 2025 (Source:@ImTanujSingh,x.com)Devdutt Padikkal in IPL 2025 (Source:@ImTanujSingh,x.com)

The 2025 edition of the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 Auction delivered an electrifying start, with intense bidding wars and record-breaking price tags grabbing headlines. Among the marquee names, it was stylish Karnataka batter Devdutt Padikkal who stole the spotlight. He emerged as the most expensive player of the auction, picked up by Hubli Tigers for a staggering ₹13.20 lakhs. 

Padikkal, known for his elegant stroke play, attracted heavy interest from multiple franchises, but it was Hubli Tigers who eventually won the high-stakes bidding battle. This acquisition marks a major boost to their top order, as the left-hander brings IPL experience and recent form to the squad.

Devdutt Padikkal's IPL Success

Padikkal’s value increased following stellar 2025 IPL season with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Bought at ₹2 crore, he quickly silenced critics with a commanding performance. Scoring 247 runs at an explosive strike rate of 150.61, Padikkal proved to be one of RCB’s most dependable batters.

Slotting in at No. 3, he seamlessly anchored the innings between the power-hitters, Virat Kohli and Phil Salt. His innings featured multiple match-winning contributions, including a couple of well-crafted fifties that kept the scoreboard ticking and stabilized RCB’s innings when needed most. Unfortunately, his campaign was cut short due to an untimely injury, with Mayal Aggarwal stepping in as his replacement. 

All eyes will now be on Padikkal as he prepares to don the Hubli Tigers jersey for the Maharaja Trophy 2025. The pressure of being the costliest player will be high, but if recent performances are anything to go by, he seems more than ready to shoulder the expectations

More Players At Maharaja Trophy 2025

The Hubli Tigers have signaled their serious intent for the upcoming season. The have also picked another player in form of Abhinav Manohar, who was snapped up for ₹12.20 lakhs. 

Top 5 Highest Buys (So Far) 

  • Devdutt Padikkal - ₹13.20 lakhs, Team: Hubli Tigers 
  • Abhinav Manohar - ₹12.20 lakhs, Team: Hubli Tigers
  • Manish Pandey - ₹12.20 lakhs, Team: Mysore Warriors, 
  • Vidwath Kaverappa - ₹10.80 lakhs , Team: Shivamogga Lions
  • Vidyadhar Patil - ₹8.40 lakhs Team: Bengaluru Blasters