The IPL 2025 mega auction is just around the corner and it'll be interesting to see, which players will break the bank this time around. As all ten franchises have already finalized their retention lists, the stage is set for bidding wars that could break previous records. With a relentless drive to lift the prestigious title, the franchises of the cash-rich league are prepared to splurge on the biggest names of the game. As fans eagerly await the action on November 24-25 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, let's take a look at the most expensive deals in IPL history.
Mitchell Starc - ₹24.75 Crores
Mitchell Starc became the most expensive player in IPL history when Kolkata Knight Riders secured him for a staggering ₹24.75 crore. The Australian pacer, however, failed to live up to the massive price tag, claiming 17 wickets in 14 matches. However, the Aussie quick did prove his mettle in the season finale against Sunrisers Hyderabad as he returned with clinical figures reading 2/14 in 3 overs.
Pat Cummins - ₹20.50 Crores
In the 2024 IPL auction, Sunrisers Hyderabad splashed out ₹20.50 crore to acquire Australia captain Pat Cummins. Cummins claimed 18 wickets in 16 matches at an economy of 9.28. He also added significant value to the team with his leadership skills.
Also read: CSK CEO breaks silence on reports to buy Rishabh Pant at IPL 2025 mega auction
Sam Curran - ₹18.50 Crores
In the 2023 IPL auction, England all-rounder Sam Curran was purchased by Punjab Kings for ₹18.50 crore, making him the most expensive player of the season. Curran played 14 matches and scored 276 runs, and scalped 10 wickets, showcasing his value with both bat and ball.
Cameron Green - ₹17.50 Crores
Mumbai Indians made a smart move in the 2023 IPL auction, securing Australian all-rounder Cameron Green for ₹17.50 crore. Green had a good season with the bat and scored 452 runs at an average of 50.22. He accounted for six wickets at an economy rate of 9.50 in the season.
Ben Stokes - ₹16.25 Crores
In the 2023 season, Chennai Super Kings purchased Ben Stokes for ₹16.25 crore. As one of the most impactful all-rounders in the world, Stokes added immense value to CSK. Unfortunately, he withdrew from the tournament after two matches due to a knee injury.
Chris Morris - ₹16.25 Crores
In the 2021 IPL auction, Chris Morris topped the bidding charts when Rajasthan Royals acquired him for ₹16.25 crore. Known for his pace bowling and explosive hitting, the South African all-rounder claimed 15 wickets in 11 matches at an economy rate of 9.17. He also couldn't do much with the bat and managed just 67 runs from seven innings.
Also Read: Rishabh Pant, Mitchell Starc - 10 players likely to become most expensive buy at IPL 2025 auction
Yuvraj Singh - ₹16 Crores
The 2015 IPL auction saw a record-breaking deal when Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) secured the legendary all-rounder Yuvraj Singh for ₹16 crore. Yuvraj scored 248 runs in 14 matches, although the franchise's campaign that season didn’t quite live up to the expectations.
Nicholas Pooran - ₹16 Crores
West Indies wicketkeeper-batsman Nicholas Pooran was purchased by Lucknow Super Giants for ₹16 crore in the 2023 auction. Known for his power-hitting ability, Pooran played a key role in LSG's middle order, scoring 358 runs with a blistering strike rate of 172.95.
Pat Cummins - ₹15.50 Crores
Pat Cummins makes a second appearance on the list. In the 2020 IPL auction, Kolkata Knight Riders bought the Australian pacer for ₹15.50 crore. Cummins delivered consistent performances throughout the season, taking 12 wickets in 14 matches and accumulated 146 runs.
Ishan Kishan - ₹15.25 Crores
In the 2022 IPL auction, Mumbai Indians secured Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Ishan Kishan for ₹15.25 crore. Known for his aggressive top-order batting, Kishan played a key role for MI, scoring 418 runs in 14 matches.
As the IPL 2025 mega auction approaches, it will be interesting to see if any new records are set, and which players will make headlines with their massive price tags.
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