For the past ten years the Indian Premier League (IPL) has established continuous records for top player acquisitions through excessive spending.
International cricket now positions the Indian Premier League as one of its apex tournaments because it takes exceptional players from every cricketing nation across the globe. Team competition over multiple auctions in the league enabled players to set new valuation standards unlike anything previously achieved. The history of the league up to 2025 showcases ten IPL players and their means of acquisition along with every team’s participation in these purchases.
Rishabh Pant
The Lucknow Super Giants shattered tournament records at the 2021 IPL auction by acquiring Rishabh Pant for INR 27 crore million. Pant received the highest investment from the team since he simultaneously filled both the primary wicketkeeping and team morale leadership roles. Using a combination of outstanding batting performances he added substantial team value with his intelligent decision-making. The only team that made a significant investment with its purse went to Rishabh Pant as their main batting order while potentially spending massive funds on him throughout the season.
- Shreyas Iyer
Punjab Kings acquired Shreyas Iyer for INR 26.75 crore which marks the second biggest investment during the 2025 auction. Punjab Kings spent high sums to acquire the batting leadership and dependable batting skills of Shreyas Iyer. Punjab Kings acquired Iyer to bring stability in the middle order batting while he would form a essential link in the team’s lineup. His signing brought value to the team because it strengthened their batting line.
3. Mitchell Starc 24.75 Crore
During the 2024 auction Kolkata Knight Riders won the signing of Mitch Starc for INR 24.75 crore. The combination of Starc’s elite fast bowling performance secured matches for KKR as the final over approached. Through his ability to lead under challenging situations Star enhanced KKR’s bowling crew strategies. Starc’s presence on the team would yield another goal to help secure tight victory situations.
4. Pat Cummins 20.5 Crore
At critical situations and when he played both bat and ball steadily Cummins earned respect from match authorities to play as an adaptable replacement unit. His long-standing cricket experience helped Sunrisers Hyderabad develop their competitive plan. Whichever game becomes crucial for the team Pat Cummins shows everyone why he has the potential to reach his absolute best level.
5. Sam Curran INR 18.5 Crore
Sam Curran most expensive all rounder in IPL history in 2023. In addition to batting and bowling Sam Curran made crucial winning contributions to his team. The team decided to invest following their understanding that his potential reached its peak during critical moments. During the auctions they had a continuous need for edge over rivals which prompted them to purchase the all-rounders at top prices.
6. Cameron Green: ( INR 17.5 Crore)
Cameron Green accepted a contract from MI totaling INR17.5 crore during the 2023 auction. Media pace bowler Cameron Green demonstrated impressive qualities to Punjab Kings when they acquired him in their bidding process. The Mumbai Indians team was captivated by Cameron Green’s skills during their auction the year before his birthday turned twenty-four. The team believed Green possessed all the necessary skills to win on today’s field while developing into one of the premier talents of the future.
7. Ben Stokes INR 16.25 Crore
The INR 16.25 crore contract secured England’s Ben Stokes for Chennai Super Kings making him a paid-player and establishing him as one of this season’s most expensive signings. Against pressure, Ben Stokes shines through action. His talent led Chennai Super Kings to offer him a contract because he showed the necessary ability to lead a team. At the time when MS Dhoni approached retirement age the team got both experienced leadership and Stokes’ skilled batting abilities. Team team chemistry led to the purchase of the organization by a substantial amount.
- Chris Morris For INR 16.25 CR
In 2021 IPL Auction Chris Morris was the most expensive all rounder for RR In 16.25 CR. Rajasthan Royals recognized Morris’ ability to both crush late innings and launch fast Deathballs thereby establishing their investment in him as a required tool. The Royals needed T20 players who perform excellently in crucial matches which is why they made Chris Morris their crucial acquisition.
9. Nicholas Pooran INR 16 CR
Batters showing strong performance and expert wicketkeeping abilities helped Pooran obtain financing at this price point. The Lucknow Super Giants recognized playing the attack was key to their success therefore they let Nicholas Pooran develop as their central figure. Lucknow Stock Super Giants bought this player to finalize their team construction framework.
In 2015 the Delhi Daredevils secured Yuvraj Singh’s services through a record-breaking 2015 Inr 16 Crore investment.
10. Yuvraj Singh INR 16 CR:Despite not reaching performance expectations Yuvaraj proved to be a valuable aspect of their team because of his established abilities. Throughout the selection process all participating franchises gained insight into the substantial financial value premiumplayers could produce.
Honorable Mention
Two big players ( Rashid Khan & Shubman Gill ) bought by Gujrat Titans in 15 Crores INR in 2025 IPL auction.
Conclusion
Teams in IPL fiercely compete to acquire their top players because the league dynamically modifies its cricket essence while these big names prove vital for their success. The IPL season brings talent auctions which generate international media attention from every part of the globe. History-making auctions will draw additional cricket greats as the popularity of IPL expands.
