With the 2025 IPL auction around the corner, all 10 franchises have finalized their retentions, setting the stage for a thrilling bidding battle. Punjab Kings, retaining only two players, enters with the deepest purse and two Right-To-Match (RTM) cards, while Rajasthan Royals, with six retentions, has the tightest budget. As excitement builds, let’s take a look back at the top 10 most expensive players in IPL history and what made them so valuable.
1. Mitchell Starc: Record-Breaking Price with Kolkata Knight Riders
Mitchell Starc shattered records in the 2024 IPL auction, becoming the most expensive player ever with a whopping INR 24.75 crores bid by Kolkata Knight Riders. Known for his lethal pace and ability to swing the ball, Starc’s skill set made him a premium asset, capable of turning games single-handedly.
2. Pat Cummins: High Demand and Consistent Value
Australian fast bowler Pat Cummins ranks among the most sought-after players in IPL history. In 2024, Sunrisers Hyderabad secured him for INR 20.5 crores, reflecting his value as a pace spearhead. Cummins’ consistency, coupled with his ability to contribute with the bat, made him worth every rupee.
3. Sam Curran: Punjab Kings’ Big Investment
In the 2023 auction, Punjab Kings made headlines by signing English all-rounder Sam Curran for INR 18.5 crores. Curran’s versatile skills in both batting and bowling, along with his adaptability, positioned him as a key player for Punjab, providing a balanced lineup.
4. Cameron Green: Rising Star for Mumbai Indians
Australian all-rounder Cameron Green emerged as a major signing for Mumbai Indians in 2023 at INR 17.5 crores. Green’s impressive form and potential as a top-order batsman and bowler made him an ideal candidate for teams seeking a strong, multi-dimensional player.
5. Ben Stokes: A Valuable Pick for Chennai Super Kings
Chennai Super Kings invested heavily in Ben Stokes in 2023, acquiring him for INR 16.25 crores. Known for his aggressive batting, sharp fielding, and match-winning abilities, Stokes brings an all-round edge that boosts any lineup he joins.
6. Chris Morris: Rajasthan Royals’ Big Gamble
South African all-rounder Chris Morris made waves in 2021 when Rajasthan Royals secured him for INR 16.25 crores. Despite his high price tag, Morris proved his worth with impactful performances as a hard-hitting finisher and a skillful bowler.
7. Yuvraj Singh: A Legendary Bid by Delhi Daredevils
In 2015, Yuvraj Singh’s star power saw Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) bid INR 16 crores for him. Known for his flamboyant batting and reliable left-arm spin, Yuvraj’s impact on the game and his fan following contributed to his high demand.
8. Nicholas Pooran: Lucknow Super Giants’ Big Move
Nicholas Pooran fetched INR 16 crores in the 2023 auction, with Lucknow Super Giants securing him for his explosive batting prowess. Pooran’s ability to change games quickly as a power hitter made him an appealing investment for Lucknow’s lineup.
9. Pat Cummins: Record-Breaking Deal with Kolkata Knight Riders
Pat Cummins appears again on this list for his INR 15.5 crores bid from Kolkata Knight Riders in 2020. His consistent performances and ability to handle pressure cemented his spot as a high-value player in the auction.
10. Ishan Kishan: Mumbai Indians’ Commitment in 2022
Young Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Ishan Kishan earned INR 15.25 crores from Mumbai Indians in 2022. Known for his fearless batting style and skills behind the stumps, Kishan was seen as a long-term asset and future star for the franchise.
The Impact of High-Value Players on IPL Success
These record-breaking bids showcase the high stakes involved in IPL auctions, where franchises pay premium prices for top players who can deliver game-changing performances. With the 2025 auction on the horizon, fans and franchises alike are eager to see who will make the next big splash.(online casino)
| Player | Team | Price (INR crores) | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mitchell Starc | Kolkata Knight Riders | 24.75 | 2024 |
| Pat Cummins | Sunrisers Hyderabad | 20.5 | 2024 |
| Sam Curran | Punjab Kings | 18.5 | 2023 |
| Cameron Green | Mumbai Indians | 17.5 | 2023 |
| Ben Stokes | Chennai Super Kings | 16.25 | 2023 |
| Chris Morris | Rajasthan Royals | 16.25 | 2021 |
| Yuvraj Singh | Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) | 16.0 | 2015 |
| Nicholas Pooran | Lucknow Super Giants | 16.0 | 2023 |
| Pat Cummins | Kolkata Knight Riders | 15.5 | 2020 |
| Ishan Kishan | Mumbai Indians | 15.25 | 2022 |