The IPL 2025 retention list is out, and franchises have made some surprising calls ahead of the mega auction. While many teams retained their star players, Rajasthan Royals’ decision to release their explosive opener Jos Buttler has raised eyebrows. Buttler, one of the most powerful T20 batters, will now enter the auction pool, sparking interest among teams eager to add firepower at the top. Here are three teams that should seriously consider making a bid for the English opener:
3. Royal Challengers Bangalore
- Why RCB Needs Him: RCB finds itself in need of a reliable wicketkeeper and a captain for the upcoming season. Buttler can take on both roles while giving RCB a formidable opening partner for Virat Kohli, adding much-needed explosiveness to their batting order.
- How He Fits In: Batting at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Buttler’s aggressive approach would thrive, complementing Kohli’s consistency and anchoring abilities. With an 84-crore purse, RCB has the financial muscle to secure Buttler’s services and might find him the perfect addition for their trophy hunt.
2. Punjab Kings
- Why Punjab Needs Him: Known for their preference for English players, Punjab has a history with stars like Sam Curran and Jonny Bairstow. With Shikhar Dhawan now out of the side, Punjab could use Buttler’s experience and firepower as an opening partner for Prabhsimran Singh.
- How He Fits In: Buttler’s aggressive batting style would bring leadership to the squad, and his experience could provide stability to Punjab’s young lineup. Buttler also presents an ideal candidate for captaincy, filling a leadership gap in their squad and delivering the dynamism Punjab’s top order needs.
1. Lucknow Super Giants
- Why LSG Needs Him: Lucknow has retained its core but lacks top-order firepower. With KL Rahul out, they need an opener who can lead from the front, and Buttler fits that description perfectly.
- How He Fits In: As one of the world’s best T20 openers, Buttler could inject the attacking flair that LSG’s lineup requires. Not only could he anchor their top order, but his leadership qualities also make him a strong captaincy option should Nicholas Pooran pass on the mantle.
With Rajasthan Royals’ unexpected release of Buttler, the IPL 2025 auction could see fierce competition to secure one of T20’s most explosive openers.