Top 5 Most Expensive Players in IPL History and Their Records
The Indian Premier League (IPL) is renowned for its intense bidding wars, where franchises spare no expense to secure top-tier cricketing talent. Over the years, the league has witnessed some record-breaking purchases, with players fetching astronomical prices. These high-value acquisitions not only reflect the growing financial stature of the league but also underscore the immense talent and impact these players bring to their respective teams.
In this article, we take a detailed look at the five most expensive players in IPL history, their notable records, and their overall contribution to the game.
1. Rishabh Pant – ₹27 Crore (2025)
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— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) December 3, 2024
Rishabh Pant broke the record as Lucknow Super Giants successfully bid ₹27 crore for the Indian player during the recently concluded #TATAIPLAuction ?#TATAIPL | @RishabhPant17 | @LucknowIPL pic.twitter.com/IoOQWWxxdt
- Team: Lucknow Super Giants
- Auction Year: 2025
- Role: Wicketkeeper-Batsman
- Strengths: Explosive batting, match-finishing ability, agile wicketkeeping
- Key Achievements:
- Consistently delivers in high-pressure situations.
- Known for aggressive stroke play and high strike rate.
- Proven match-winner for both IPL and Indian national team.
2. Shreyas Iyer – ₹26.75 Crore (2025)
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— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) November 24, 2024
Say hello ? to the ???? ????????? ?????? in the history of #TATAIPL ?
Punjab Kings have Shreyas Iyer on board for a handsome ??? ??.?? ?????#TATAIPLAuction | @ShreyasIyer15 | @PunjabKingsIPL pic.twitter.com/z0A1M9MD1Z
- Team: Punjab Kings
- Auction Year: 2025
- Role: Middle-order Batsman
- Strengths: Anchoring innings, leadership, tactical awareness
- Key Achievements:
- Dependable batsman with ability to build and accelerate innings.
- Has captained IPL teams and demonstrated strong leadership skills.
- Consistent performer in domestic and international cricket.
3. Mitchell Starc – ₹24.75 Crore (2024)
Strap your seatbelts Kolkata, #MitchellStarc is ready to don the Purple & Gold jersey!
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) December 19, 2023
Starc ? Most Expensive Purchase ever at the IPL Auction at 24.75 CR! ????
Tune-in to the #IPLAuctionOnStar, LIVE on Star Sports Network#IPL2024Auction pic.twitter.com/3DBXSzm7X5
- Team: Kolkata Knight Riders
- Auction Year: 2024
- Role: Fast Bowler
- Strengths: Lethal yorkers, raw pace, swing bowling
- Key Achievements:
- Among the most feared pacers in cricket worldwide.
- Provides crucial breakthroughs in powerplays and death overs.
- Despite limited IPL appearances, remains a high-impact player.
4. Pat Cummins – ₹20.50 Crore (2024)
After an intense bidding war, the Aussie captain, #PatCummins is sold for 20.50 CR to SRH, eventually becoming the highest paid player in the #IPL auction history! ??
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) December 19, 2023
Tune-in to the #IPLAuctionOnStar, LIVE on Star Sports Network#IPL2024Auction pic.twitter.com/wuWVOpT0Pk
- Team:Sunrisers Hyderabad
- Auction Year: 2024
- Role: Fast Bowler & Lower-order Batsman
- Strengths: Versatile bowling, aggressive batting, leadership skills
- Key Achievements:
- Consistently among the top wicket-takers.
- Can contribute crucial runs as a lower-order batsman.
- Former Australian captain with proven leadership credentials.
5. Sam Curran – ₹18.50 Crore (2023)
Record Alert ?
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) December 23, 2022
Sam Curran ??????? ??? ???? ????????? ?????? ???? ?? ?? ?????? ?? ???!
He goes BIG ?- INR 18.50 Crore & will now play for Punjab Kings ? ?#TATAIPLAuction | @TataCompanies pic.twitter.com/VlKRCcwv05
- Team: Punjab Kings
- Auction Year: 2023
- Role: All-rounder
- Strengths: Death-over bowling, aggressive batting, game-changing performances
- Key Achievements:
- Effective in both powerplays and death overs.
- Can turn matches with quick cameos and smart bowling.
- Justified his high price tag with impactful all-round contributions.
Player Stats
| Player | Team | Matches | Runs | Batting Avg | Strike Rate | Wickets | Bowling Avg |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rishabh Pant | Lucknow Super Giants | 98 | 2838 | 34.1 | 147.9 | - | - |
| Shreyas Iyer | Punjab Kings | 101 | 2776 | 31.2 | 125.4 | - | - |
| Mitchell Starc | Kolkata Knight Riders | 27 | 72 | 10.3 | 112.5 | 34 | 20.4 |
| Pat Cummins | Sunrisers Hyderabad | 50 | 347 | 17.3 | 140.2 | 52 | 26.1 |
| Sam Curran | Punjab Kings | 45 | 604 | 22.3 | 137.1 | 42 | 27.8 |
Conclusion
- The IPL's record-breaking signings highlight the growing financial and competitive nature of the tournament.
- Franchises invest heavily in players who can single-handedly change the outcome of matches.
- These cricketers have justified their price tags with exceptional performances and leadership.
- As the IPL continues to evolve, we can expect even more record-breaking deals in the future.
- Whether through match-winning innings, exceptional bowling spells, or strong leadership, these players have made a lasting impact on IPL history.
These record-breaking purchases are a testament to the league’s prestige and the incredible talent it attracts. With every IPL season, new stars emerge, ensuring that the excitement and competitiveness of the tournament remain unparalleled.
Also Read: IPL 2024 Cap Winners & AI Predictions for IPL 2025
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