Ishan Kishan’s journey with the Mumbai Indians (MI) has seemingly come to an end, at least in Ravichandran Ashwin’s mock IPL 2025 mega auction. Kishan, one of MI’s standout players since 2018, was picked up by Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for Rs 14.5 crore, marking a significant shift for the wicketkeeper-batter who had become synonymous with the MI franchise.
A surprising pay cut for Kishan
At Ashwin’s mock auction, Kishan’s base price was set at Rs 2 crore, but the bidding quickly escalated. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) initiated the bidding at Rs 5 crore, with Punjab Kings (PBKS) briefly joining the race. However, it was LSG that clinched Kishan for Rs 14.5 crore, outbidding CSK’s Rs 10 crore offer.
Interestingly, this amount is a pay cut compared to the Rs 15.25 crore MI shelled out for Kishan at the 2022 IPL mega auction. If this pattern holds in the real auction, Kishan will face a significant reduction in earnings despite his high-profile status.
Why MI might not bring Kishan back
The Mumbai Indians have made notable decisions ahead of the IPL 2025 auction, choosing to retain Tilak Varma over Kishan. This could signal a loss of faith in Kishan’s ability to deliver consistent results. Despite his 2020 season heroics—516 runs at an average of 57.33 and a strike rate of 145.74—his subsequent performances have failed to meet expectations. Over seven seasons, Kishan has only crossed 400 runs three times and has a career strike rate of 135.86.
In the 2024 season, Kishan’s numbers paled in comparison to top-performing openers like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, and Jos Buttler, many of whom were retained by their franchises. Kishan’s struggles to maintain a consistent average and strike rate may explain MI’s decision to move on.
LSG’s strategy with Kishan
Lucknow Super Giants have secured a versatile player in Ishan Kishan, whose ability as a wicketkeeper-batter provides flexibility in team composition. While his recent IPL stats may not be extraordinary, Kishan remains a dynamic option for the top order. LSG’s investment indicates their belief in his potential to regain form and play a pivotal role in their campaign.
Ishan Kishan’s IPL stats
- Matches: 105
- Runs: 2,644
- Average: 28.43
- Strike Rate: 135.86
- 100s: 0
- 50s: 16
- Highest Score: 99
As the real IPL 2025 auction approaches, it remains to be seen whether LSG’s mock auction strategy reflects reality or if MI will surprise fans with a late bid to bring Kishan back. For now, LSG has taken the leap, banking on Kishan’s ability to shine in their colors.