Most Expensive Players in IPL History Till 2025

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has evolved into one of the biggest and most lucrative cricket leagues in the world. Over the years, we’ve seen the rise of talented players who not only shine with their skills but also command massive price tags at the auctions. From MS Dhoni’s landmark deal in 2008 to Mitchell Starc’s staggering ₹24.75 crore (approximately $3 million) bid in 2024, the IPL auction is always an exciting affair, where some of the biggest names in cricket go under the hammer.

1. MS Dhoni – $1.5 Million (₹7.5 Crore) (2008)

The IPL’s inaugural season in 2008 set the tone for the future, and the very first auction saw MS Dhoni being bought by Chennai Super Kings for a whopping $1.5 million (₹7.5 crore). This was not just a huge amount for a player, but it was a sign of things to come. Dhoni, who would go on to become one of the most iconic captains in cricket, was the face of CSK for years. His leadership, calm demeanor, and knack for handling pressure made him a fan favorite, and the investment paid off.

2. Andrew Flintoff & Kevin Pietersen – $1.55 Million (₹7.75 Crore) (2009)

In 2009, two English stars, Andrew Flintoff and Kevin Pietersen, were the highest-paid players at the auction. Both were bought for $1.55 million (₹7.75 crore), and their presence added firepower to the league. Flintoff, an all-rounder known for his aggressive batting and sharp bowling, was bought by Chennai Super Kings, while Pietersen was picked by Royal Challengers Bangalore. These two players added an extra layer of excitement to the IPL, attracting more global attention.

3. Shane Bond & Kieron Pollard – $750K (₹3.75 Crore) (2010)

In 2010, the price tags were somewhat lower, but there were still some big buys. Shane Bond, the fiery fast bowler from New Zealand, fetched $750K (₹3.75 crore), while Kieron Pollard, the explosive West Indies all-rounder, was also bought for the same amount. Pollard, especially, became a key player for Mumbai Indians over the years, with his powerful hitting being a game-changer in crucial situations.

4. Gautam Gambhir – ₹2.4 Crore (approximately $480K) (2011)

2011 saw the rise of Gautam Gambhir as one of the most expensive players in the IPL, with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) bagging him for ₹2.4 crore (approximately $480K). Gambhir’s consistent performances with the bat and his leadership helped KKR win their first IPL title in 2012. The iconic left-hander’s strategic mind and fighting spirit made him one of the most valuable players in IPL history.

5. Ravindra Jadeja – ₹2 Crore (approximately $330K) (2012)

In 2012, Ravindra Jadeja was bought by Chennai Super Kings for ₹2 crore (approximately $330K). Jadeja, who was a key all-rounder, provided balance to the team with his bowling, fielding, and batting. His performances in the years that followed, including a match-winning performance in the 2018 IPL, made him one of the best all-rounders in IPL history.

6. Glenn Maxwell – ₹1 Crore (approximately $167K) (2013)

The Australian hard-hitting batsman, Glenn Maxwell, was picked up by Mumbai Indians in 2013 for ₹1 crore (approximately $167K). Maxwell had the potential to change the game with his explosive batting, and though his time with Mumbai wasn’t long, his future in IPLs to come would be marked by massive performances and sky-high bids.

7. Yuvraj Singh – ₹14 Crore (approximately $2.33 Million) (2014)

The 2014 IPL auction was a turning point for Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh, as he became the most expensive player of that year, with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) buying him for ₹14 crore (approximately $2.8 million). Yuvraj’s ability to play aggressive cricket and his left-arm spin made him a sought-after player, and his auction price reflected his status in Indian cricket. This was a monumental bid in the IPL’s history.

8. Yuvraj Singh – ₹16 Crore (approximately $2.52 Million) (2015)

Yuvraj Singh’s IPL saga continued in 2015, where he set yet another record with Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals), purchasing him for ₹16 crore (approximately $3.2 million). His performances were a bit inconsistent, but his experience and talent made him a significant name on the auction list.

9. Shane Watson – ₹9.5 Crore (approximately $1.42 Million) (2016)

Shane Watson, the Australian all-rounder, was bought by Royal Challengers Bangalore for ₹9.5 crore (approximately $1.9 million) in 2016. Known for his ability to provide crucial breakthroughs with the ball and hitting big shots with the bat, Watson became a key player in IPL, contributing to RCB’s campaigns, especially with his match-winning knock in the 2016 final.

10. Ben Stokes – ₹14.5 Crore (approximately $2.23 Million) (2017)

Ben Stokes was another English cricketer whose price reached ₹14.5 crore (approximately $2.9 million) in 2017. Bought by Rising Pune Supergiant, Stokes quickly became a star with his all-round abilities. His powerful batting performances and vital wickets made him one of the most valuable players in IPL.

11. Ben Stokes – ₹12.5 Crore (approximately $1.8 Million) (2018)

Ben Stokes made his return to the IPL in 2018 with Rajasthan Royals at a slightly lower price of ₹12.5 crore (approximately $2.5 million). However, his performances remained pivotal, showcasing his aggressive batting and game-changing performances.

12. Jaydev Unadkat – ₹8.4 Crore (approximately $1.2 Million) (2019)

In 2019, the Indian pacer Jaydev Unadkat fetched ₹8.4 crore (approximately $1.7 million) at the auction, with Rajasthan Royals securing his services. His price was a surprise for many, as he had shown some inconsistency in his performances, but his ability to swing the ball in the powerplay made him a valuable commodity in the IPL.

13. Pat Cummins – ₹15.5 Crore (approximately $2.09 Million) (2020)

Australian pacer Pat Cummins became the most expensive overseas player in IPL history in 2020 when Kolkata Knight Riders bought him for ₹15.5 crore (approximately $3.1 million). His ability to bowl fast, swing the ball, and contribute with the bat made him an excellent choice. Cummins proved his worth by leading the KKR bowling attack, even though the season was disrupted by COVID-19.

14. Chris Morris – ₹16.25 Crore (approximately $2.18 Million) (2021)

South African all-rounder Chris Morris made headlines in 2021 when Rajasthan Royals bought him for ₹16.25 crore (approximately $3.25 million), making him the most expensive player of that year. His aggressive batting and knack for breaking partnerships with the ball made him a key player in IPL’s fast-paced format.

15. Ishan Kishan – ₹15.25 Crore (approximately $2.03 Million) (2022)

In 2022, young wicketkeeper-batsman Ishan Kishan broke records by becoming the most expensive player for Mumbai Indians, at ₹15.25 crore (approximately $3.05 million). Ishan’s explosive opening batting, combined with his wicketkeeping skills, made him an exciting prospect for the team.

16. Sam Curran – ₹18.5 Crore (approximately $2.18 Million) (2023)

Sam Curran’s breakthrough performances with the bat and ball earned him the highest bid of the 2023 auction. Bought by Punjab Kings for ₹18.5 crore (approximately $3.7 million), his versatility and all-round contributions made him a top player in T20 cricket. Curran’s success in international leagues and his performance in the T20 World Cup further cemented his place as one of the most expensive IPL players in recent history.

17. Mitchell Starc – ₹24.75 Crore (approximately $2.92 Million) (2024)

The 2024 IPL auction shocked everyone when Australian pacer Mitchell Starc was bought for a massive ₹24.75 crore (approximately $4.95 million). Known for his deadly fast bowling, Starc’s inclusion will undoubtedly make him one of the most

18. Rishabh Pant – ₹27 Crore (approximately $3.18 Million) (2025)

It wasn’t the surprise that Rishabh Pant would be the spotlight for 2025 IPL season. Lucknow Super Giants bought him for 27 crore rupees which approximately comes to $3.18 million. Lets hope this huge bet turns out good for Lucknow.

Hope you like this article. Do checkout Global Insights for more insightful content.