3 teams that can target Kagiso Rabada at the IPL 2025 auction ft. Mumbai Indians
Anticipation is building for the IPL 2025 Mega Auction, set to take place on November 24-25 at the Abadi Al Johar Arena in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. 1,574 players have registered for the event, including 1,165 from India and 409 international players.
One of the standout international fast bowlers set to go under the hammer is South Africa's Kagiso Rabada. The 29-year-old pacer was bought by Punjab Kings for ₹9.25 crore ahead of the 2022 edition and played for the franchise over three seasons before being released ahead of the 2025 auction. Rabada featured in 30 matches for Punjab, taking 41 wickets.
The South African fast bowler is set to return to the IPL 2025 auction, and given his strong track record, it's expected that several franchises will vie for his services.
With 80 IPL appearances and 117 wickets, Rabada's sheer pace, aggressive approach, and knack for performing under pressure make him an attractive prospect for teams.
On that note, let's look at three franchises that could target Kagiso Rabada at the upcoming auction.
#1 Mumbai Indians (MI)
Mumbai Indians (MI), one of the most successful franchises in IPL history with five titles, will likely be keen to bring in South African pacer Kagiso Rabada. While the team's batting lineup, featuring stars like Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Ishan Kishan, often steals the spotlight, it's their bowling attack that has been the cornerstone of their dominance over the years.
Since the departure of Trent Boult, MI have been on the lookout for a reliable partner to complement Jasprit Bumrah in the pace department. Adding Rabada would be an excellent move for the team, led by Hardik Pandya.
Rabada’s blistering pace and knack for taking crucial wickets would pair perfectly with Bumrah’s precision and deadly yorkers, potentially forming one of the most potent fast-bowling duos in IPL history.
The right-arm pacer has a solid track record at Wankhede Stadium, where he has played eight matches and taken 11 wickets, making him a natural fit for Mumbai’s setup, especially at their home ground.
#2 Delhi Capitals (DC)
Delhi Capitals (DC) and Kagiso Rabada share a long and successful history. The South African pacer made his IPL debut in 2017 with the franchise and was with the team until 2021.
During his time with the Delhi-based franchise, Rabada played a key role in their three successful campaigns. DC finished as runners-up in 2020, and qualified for the playoffs in 2019 and 2021, with Rabada making significant contributions in all three seasons.
In 2019, he claimed 25 wickets in just 12 matches, while in 2020, he picked up 30 wickets in 17 games, earning the Purple Cap. He continued to deliver in 2021, taking 15 wickets and playing a crucial role in the team’s success.
Rabada’s previous performances with DC highlight his ability to thrive in the pressure-packed environment of the IPL. He has also delivered strong performances at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, with 11 wickets in eight games.
Bringing him back would add an experienced bowler to the squad, capable of producing match-winning performances when needed.
#3 Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are one of the few franchises yet to win an IPL title, despite boasting a history filled with match-winning batters. From the IPL 2025 top retention, Virat Kohli, to former stars like AB de Villiers and Chris Gayle, RCB have consistently had powerful batting lineups.
However, the team has often struggled with the depth and consistency of its bowling attack, especially in the fast-bowling department. RCB has released Mohammed Siraj and retained Yash Dayal for the upcoming season. Now, they need to strengthen their bowling lineup, and Rabada could be the solution to their bowling concerns.
With his proven IPL record, ability to bowl in all phases of the game, and experience in pressure situations, Kagiso Rabada could provide the pace and aggression that RCB need to strengthen their bowling unit and mount a serious title challenge.
The 29-year-old has previously played two games at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, where he has taken six wickets. As RCB aim to build a formidable squad, adding Rabada to their ranks would be an enticing prospect.