Rishabh Pant tops the list as the most expensive player in IPL history after being bought for a record ₹27 crore at the IPL 2025 mega auction. His price sets a new record in IPL auctions and shows the high value of Indian match-winners and proven leaders in the league.
Over the years, several big names have been among the most expensive IPL buys. This includes Shreyas Iyer at ₹26.75 crore, along with Mitchell Starc and Cameron Green, who became the most expensive overseas player at the recently concluded IPL 2026 mini auction having been acquired by KKR for 25.20 cr. These record bids show the increasing competition among franchises.
This article looks closely at the most expensive player in IPL history, key auction records, and how recent auctions have changed the list of all-time expensive players.
Top 10 Most Expensive Players In IPL History
The IPL auction has often set records, with franchises spending a lot to get top talent. Many players have attracted huge bids because of their performance, influence, and leadership skills.
Here’s a look at the top 10 most expensive players in IPL history.
| Player | Team | Year | Price (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rishabh Pant | Lucknow Super Giants | 2025 | 27.00 cr |
| Shreyas Iyer | Punjab Kings | 2025 | 26.75 cr |
| Cameron Green | Kolkata Knight Riders | 2026 | 25.20 cr |
| Mitchell Starc | Kolkata Knight Riders | 2024 | 24.75 cr |
| Venkatesh Iyer | Kolkata Knight Riders | 2025 | 23.75 cr |
| Pat Cummins | Sunrisers Hyderabad | 2024 | 20.50 cr |
| Sam Curran | Punjab Kings | 2023 | 18.50 cr |
| Arshdeep Singh | Punjab Kings | 2025 | 18.00 cr |
| Yuzvendra Chahal | Punjab Kings | 2025 | 18.00 cr |
| Matheesha Pathirana | Kolkata Knight Riders | 2026 | 18.00 cr |
1. Rishabh Pant – ₹27.00 Cr (Lucknow Super Giants, 2025)
Rishabh Pant became the most expensive player in IPL history after Lucknow Super Giants spent ₹27 crore on him in the 2025 mega auction.
Known for his explosive batting and ability to change games in the middle overs, Pant’s leadership potential and match-winning skills made franchises compete fiercely to secure him. His status as a top Indian player made him a premium choice.
2. Shreyas Iyer – ₹26.75 Cr (Punjab Kings, 2025)
Shreyas Iyer was bought for ₹26.75 crore by Punjab Kings in the 2025 auction. His consistent batting and calm leadership make him a dependable anchor during high-pressure situations.
As a proven IPL player and captain, Iyer’s experience and ability to lead a young team influenced teams to invest heavily to sign him.
3. Cameron Green – ₹25.20 Cr (Kolkata Knight Riders, 2026)
Cameron Green became the most expensive overseas player in IPL history when Kolkata Knight Riders spent ₹25.20 crore in the 2026 mini auction.
His ability to hit big shots, bowl useful pace, and contribute as a genuine all-rounder made him highly sought after. KKR saw him as a versatile player who could balance the team in all phases of the game.
4. Mitchell Starc – ₹24.75 Cr (Kolkata Knight Riders, 2024)
Mitchell Starc was acquired for ₹24.75 crore by KKR in 2024 for his exceptional fast bowling.
He is known for taking early wickets and delivering precise yorkers at the end of innings. Starc’s experience and ability to deliver in high-pressure situations make him a valuable asset for teams looking for a game-changing bowler.
5. Venkatesh Iyer – ₹23.75 Cr (Kolkata Knight Riders, 2025)
Venkatesh Iyer was snapped up by KKR for ₹23.75 crore in 2025 thanks to his explosive batting at the top of the order and ability to hit big shots under pressure.
His medium-pace bowling adds balance to the side, making him a versatile asset who can influence matches with both bat and ball.
6. Pat Cummins – ₹20.50 Cr (Sunrisers Hyderabad, 2024)
Pat Cummins earned ₹20.50 crore with Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2024 for his ability to lead and take wickets at crucial times.
Cummins’ fast bowling and calm leadership provide the team with match-winning strength. His experience makes him a reliable player in any lineup.
7. Sam Curran – ₹18.50 Cr (Punjab Kings, 2023)
Sam Curran’s ₹18.50 crore price to Punjab Kings in 2023 reflects his all-round skills. He can swing the ball, bowl at any stage, and hit powerful shots in the lower order.
Curran’s ability to impact matches in different ways makes him a valuable player in T20 cricket.
8. Arshdeep Singh – ₹18.00 Cr (Punjab Kings, 2025)
Arshdeep Singh earned ₹18 crore in 2025 while playing for Punjab Kings. His left-arm pace helps him stand out as a domestic bowler who can challenge top batters, particularly in the final overs.
Arshdeep’s reliability and ability to take important wickets give his team an advantage in close games.
9. Yuzvendra Chahal – ₹18.00 Cr (Punjab Kings, 2025)
Yuzvendra Chahal was bought for ₹18 crore in 2025 by Punjab Kings due to his ability to take wickets in the middle overs.
His smart variations and experience make him a reliable spinner in high-pressure situations. Chahal’s presence helps control the game when opposing batters try to increase their scoring.
10. Matheesha Pathirana – ₹18.00 Cr (Kolkata Knight Riders, 2026)
Matheesha Pathirana’s ₹18 crore price in 2026 reflects his reputation as a specialist death bowler.
With a unique sling action and pinpoint yorkers, he can trouble the best batters. KKR valued his ability to deliver in crucial final overs, knowing he can turn tight games around.
IPL 2026 Mini Auction: A Glimpse at the Most Recent Auction
The IPL 2026 mini auction occurred on December 16 in Abu Dhabi. All 10 teams filled their 77 vacant squad slots. Kolkata Knight Riders made headlines by spending significantly on Cameron Green, the top overseas buy.
Other franchises also improved their squads in various roles. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) stood out for supporting young talent, purchasing Prashant Veer and 19-year-old Kartik Sharma for high prices(14.20 cr each). This shows a move towards investing in future stars.
Teams mixed experienced players with uncapped youngsters, creating competitive squads for the upcoming season.
Conclusion: Rishabh Pant’s ₹27 Crore Price Makes Him IPL’s Biggest Star Buy!
Rishabh Pant’s ₹27 crore price at the IPL 2025 mega auction shows how franchises value match-winning Indian players and leadership potential.
The top 10 most expensive IPL players highlight a mix of consistent performers, all-rounders, and specialists, with big bids reflecting their ability to influence games.
The IPL 2026 mini auction continued this trend, as teams balanced proven stars like Cameron Green with emerging talents. Franchises are clearly investing for both immediate impact and long-term squad strength.
