The Indian Premier League (IPL) is yet a few months away but 2025 cricket season is set to be a spectacle like no other. In the wake of the historic IPL 2025 auction, when franchises tactically bolstered their batting lineups with established big guns along with fresh faces, the prized Indian Premier League Orange Cap sits proudly as a befitting symbol of batting supremacy and establishing oneself as the best batsman of that particular season. It is given to the tournament’s highest run-scorer and has been won by some of cricket’s all-time great hitters in the past. With the IPL 2025 auctions recently getting underway, let’s catch a glimpse of the top five batsmen to look out for during the Orange Cap race.
Virat Kohli (Royal Challengers Bangalore)
Virat Kohli, a name that resonates with consistency and class, was the top scorer in IPL 2024, amassing a staggering 741 runs in 15 matches. His averages of 61.75, coupled with his striking rate of 147.29, cemented his position as the Indian Premier League Orange Cap winner last season. Whether it’s anchoring the innings or accelerating towards the end, Kohli’s versatility with the bat is unmatched.
While Royal Challengers Bangalore is building its team around his experience, Kohli will remain their go-to man once more. With a strong top order and solid middle-order support, look for the maestro to repeat his masterclass in run-scoring in this IPL cricket season.
Ruturaj Gaikwad (Chennai Super Kings)
Ruturaj Gaikwad has been Chennai Super Kings’ most reliable performer in the last two seasons. In IPL 2024, he amassed 583 runs at a great average of 53. His capacity to pace an innings and play under pressure positions him nicely to be this season’s best batsman.
Gaikwad’s opening combination with Devon Conway has been deadly, giving CSK good starts. This year, with an added year of experience to his account, the young opener is likely to take his team ahead and make a good case for himself as one of the tournament’s best batsmen.
Rishabh Pant (Lucknow Super Giants)
The 2025 auction was memorable with one of the most historic purchases ever: Rishabh Pant was bought by Lucknow Super Giants for ₹27 crore, the most valuable player in IPL history. Pant’s game-changing batting power and pressure-adaptability ability to innovate render him a game-changer.
In spite of a slightly uneven IPL 2024, Pant’s strike rate of 159 for his aggressive batting and the single-handed ability to turn matches around remain him in the running for the Orange Cap. With Lucknow’s balanced line-up providing support, Pant might be able to unleash his full potential this season.
Shreyas Iyer (Punjab Kings)
The Punjab Kings went all out in the IPL auctions to get Shreyas Iyer for ₹26.75 crore. Iyer has always shown that he can anchor an innings while having a strike rate of 140+. His recent Vijay Hazare trophy performances are downright relentless too. Temperament is his hallmark, and he excels in both chase situations and pressure situations.
Iyer’s batting prowess and his ability to play in different batting positions make him a vital asset for Punjab Kings this season. Look for him to spearhead the team and become one of the top 5 batsmen of this IPL cricket season.
Jos Buttler (Gujarat Titans)
Jos Buttler, who is popular for his 360-degree shots, will prove to be the star player of Gujarat Titans, having been procured for ₹15.75 crore in IPL 2025 auction. His capacity to demolish bowlers from the beginning of the powerplay overs has no parallel.
While IPL 2024 was not his finest campaign, Buttler’s overall IPL record is one that speaks for itself. With a strike rate in batting close to 150, he has the ability to flip games on their head. If he gets going, Buttler can easily spearhead the Orange Cap charts.
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