Moneyball: Who Are the Most Expensive Players in IPL History?

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has consistently showcased its financial prowess by attracting top cricketing talent with substantial contracts. Over the years, the auction dynamics have led to record-breaking bids, reflecting the intense competition among franchises to secure premier players. As of the 2025 season, the list of the most expensive players in IPL history has been notably updated.​Indiatimes

  Top 10 Most Expensive Players in IPL History (as of 2025):

      1. Rishabh Pant – Acquired by Lucknow Super Giants for ₹27.00 crore in 2025.

      2. Shreyas Iyer – Signed by Punjab Kings for ₹26.75 crore in 2025.

      3. Mitchell Starc – Bought by Kolkata Knight Riders for ₹24.75 crore in 2024.

      4. Pat Cummins – Secured by Sunrisers Hyderabad for ₹20.50 crore in 2024.

      5. Sam Curran – Purchased by Punjab Kings for ₹18.50 crore in 2023.

      6. Cameron Green – Acquired by Mumbai Indians for ₹17.50 crore in 2023.

      7. Ben Stokes – Signed by Chennai Super Kings for ₹16.25 crore in 2023.

      8. Chris Morris – Bought by Rajasthan Royals for ₹16.25 crore in 2021.

      9.Yuvraj Singh – Secured by Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) for ₹16.00 crore in 2015.

     10. Nicholas Pooran – Purchased by Lucknow Super Giants for ₹16.00 crore in 2023.

The 2025 auction was particularly remarkable, with Indian stars Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer commanding unprecedented bids. Pant's acquisition by Lucknow Super Giants for ₹27.00 crore set a new benchmark, surpassing the previous record held by Shreyas Iyer, who was signed by Punjab Kings for ₹26.75 crore.

These substantial investments underscore the IPL franchises' commitment to assembling formidable squads by securing top-tier talent. The escalating auction prices also reflect the league's growing commercial success and its pivotal role in the global cricketing landscape.