The Indian Premier League (IPL), renowned for its glitz and glamour, is not only a platform for cricketing excellence but also a stage for players to secure life-changing contracts. With the IPL 2025 auction fast approaching, an expanded purse and high-profile players in the pool promise to push bidding wars to new heights. Here’s a look back at the 10 most expensive purchases in IPL auction history, featuring stars like Mitchell Starc and Yuvraj Singh.
- Mitchell Starc – ₹24.75 Crore
Australian pace sensation Mitchell Starc became the highest-paid player in IPL history during the 2024 auction when Kolkata Knight Riders secured his services. Starc proved to be worth every rupee, leading KKR’s bowling attack and playing a pivotal role in their championship-winning campaign.
- Pat Cummins – ₹20.05 Crore
In the same 2024 auction, Sunrisers Hyderabad shelled out ₹20.05 crore for Australian skipper Pat Cummins. His all-round contributions and astute leadership propelled the team to the IPL final, cementing his reputation as a valuable asset.
- Sam Curran – ₹18.5 Crore
Punjab Kings broke the bank in the 2023 auction to acquire England’s versatile all-rounder Sam Curran. Despite showcasing his talent, Curran’s tenure was short-lived as PBKS released him two seasons later during a squad overhaul.
- Cameron Green – ₹17.5 Crore
Mumbai Indians brought in Australian all-rounder Cameron Green in 2023 to fill the void left by Hardik Pandya. Green delivered impactful performances before being included in a blockbuster trade that saw Pandya return to MI.
- Ben Stokes – ₹16.25 Crore
England’s premier all-rounder Ben Stokes was a headline purchase by Chennai Super Kings in 2023. Unfortunately, injuries kept him off the field, but CSK went on to clinch the title, proving the depth of their squad.
- Chris Morris – ₹16.25 Crore
South African all-rounder Chris Morris became the most expensive player in 2021 when Rajasthan Royals secured him for ₹16.25 crore. Though there were doubts over his price, Morris delivered key performances, stepping in for the injured Jofra Archer.
- Yuvraj Singh – ₹16 Crore
In 2015, Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) made Indian legend Yuvraj Singh the costliest player of his time. Despite the hefty price tag, the move didn’t yield the expected results for either the player or the franchise.
- Nicholas Pooran – ₹16 Crore
West Indian power-hitter Nicholas Pooran was picked up by Lucknow Super Giants in 2023 for ₹16 crore. His explosive performances justified his price, and he was later retained for ₹21 crore, further solidifying his value.
- Ishan Kishan – ₹15.25 Crore
Mumbai Indians re-signed wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan during the 2022 mega auction, making him the most expensive Indian player in a mega auction. His consistent performances suggest he might command an even higher price in future auctions.
- Glenn Maxwell – ₹14.25 Crore
In 2021, Royal Challengers Bangalore acquired Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell for ₹14.25 crore. Known for his explosive batting, Maxwell became a crucial cog in RCB’s lineup, contributing significantly in the seasons that followed.
Looking Ahead to IPL 2025
As the 2025 IPL auction nears, the anticipation of breaking records continues to grow. With players like Rishabh Pant and rising stars entering the fray, cricket fans can expect another thrilling chapter in the league’s storied history.
