In a whopping Rs. 12.25 crore, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) bagged young Indian cricketer Shreyas Iyer in the opening day of auction for the 15th edition of Indian Premier League (IPL) here on Saturday.

“I am super excited to be a part of the KKR family. I am looking forward to work in this season with all the teammates, management and the support staff. It’s gonna be an exciting one. And looking forward to work with the galaxy of Knights,” an elated Iyer said in a video message. 

Besides Iyer, who is in terrific form, Australian Test captain Pat Cummins was purchased by the Kolkata franchise at Rs. 7.25 crore.

Punjab Kings, co-owned by actress Priety Zinta, have bagged senior Indian batsman Shikhar Dhawan and South African fast bowler Kagiso Rabada at Rs. 8.25 crore and Rs. 9.25 crore respectively.

Indian allrounder Ravichandran Ashwin has been purchased by Rajasthan Royals at Rs. 5 crore.

Australian senior batsman David Warner has been purchased by Delhi Capitals.