The Indian Premier League (IPL) has consistently been a platform where cricketing talent meets substantial financial rewards. Over the years, the league has witnessed record-breaking bids, with franchises eager to secure top-tier players to enhance their squads. The 2025 IPL auction, held at the Abady Al-Johar Arena in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, continued this trend, setting new benchmarks in player valuations. Here’s an in-depth look at the top 10 most expensive players in IPL history as of 2025.
1. Rishabh Pant – ₹27 Crore (Lucknow Super Giants, 2025)
In a historic move during the 2025 IPL auction, wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant was acquired by the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for a staggering ₹27 crore, making him the most expensive player in IPL history. Pant, known for his explosive batting and charismatic leadership, was released by the Delhi Capitals prior to the auction. His acquisition is seen as a strategic move by LSG to bolster their batting lineup and bring in a dynamic leader.
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2. Shreyas Iyer – ₹26.75 Crore (Punjab Kings, 2025)
Close on Pant’s heels, Shreyas Iyer was signed by the Punjab Kings (PBKS) for ₹26.75 crore. Iyer, who captained the Kolkata Knight Riders to an IPL title in 2024, brings a wealth of experience and a calm demeanor under pressure. His ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed makes him a valuable asset for PBKS as they aim for their maiden IPL title.
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3. Mitchell Starc – ₹24.75 Crore (Kolkata Knight Riders, 2024)
Australian pacer Mitchell Starc set the auction alight in 2024 when the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) secured his services for ₹24.75 crore. Starc’s lethal left-arm pace and ability to deliver in crunch situations were pivotal in KKR’s championship-winning campaign that year. His signing underscored the importance of having a world-class fast bowler spearheading the attack.
4. Venkatesh Iyer – ₹23.75 Crore (Kolkata Knight Riders, 2025)
All-rounder Venkatesh Iyer was retained by Kolkata Knight Riders for ₹23.75 crore in the 2025 auction. Iyer’s versatility with both bat and ball, along with his previous match-winning performances, made him an indispensable asset for KKR. His ability to provide balance to the team combination justifies the hefty investment.
5. Heinrich Klaasen – ₹23 Crore (Sunrisers Hyderabad, 2025)
South African wicketkeeper-batsman Heinrich Klaasen was a surprise entrant into the top echelons of IPL earners when Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) acquired him for ₹23 crore in 2025. Klaasen’s aggressive batting style and proficiency against spin bowling make him a strategic addition, especially considering the subcontinental pitches. His experience and adaptability are expected to strengthen SRH’s middle order.
6. Virat Kohli – ₹21 Crore (Royal Challengers Bangalore, 2023)
Iconic batsman Virat Kohli was retained by the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for ₹21 crore ahead of the 2023 season. Kohli’s unparalleled batting prowess and leadership qualities have been synonymous with RCB since the league’s inception. His retention at such a high value reflects his immense contribution and the brand value he brings to the franchise.
7. Nicholas Pooran – ₹21 Crore (Lucknow Super Giants, 2023)
West Indian power-hitter Nicholas Pooran was signed by the Lucknow Super Giants for ₹21 crore in the 2023 auction. Pooran’s explosive batting in the middle order and his ability to change the course of a game in a few overs made him a sought-after player. His inclusion aimed to add firepower to LSG’s batting lineup.
8. Pat Cummins – ₹20.50 Crore (Sunrisers Hyderabad, 2024)
Australian Test captain and premier fast bowler Pat Cummins was bought by Sunrisers Hyderabad for ₹20.50 crore in the 2024 auction. Cummins’ ability to bowl with pace and accuracy, coupled with his leadership skills, made him a valuable addition to SRH’s bowling arsenal. His knack for breaking partnerships and contributing with the bat lower down the order adds depth to the team.
9. Sam Curran – ₹18.50 Crore (Punjab Kings, 2023)
English all-rounder Sam Curran was acquired by the Punjab Kings for ₹18.50 crore in the 2023 auction. Curran’s ability to swing the ball, bowl crucial overs, and provide valuable runs with the bat made him a hot commodity. His all-round capabilities offer flexibility to the team’s lineup, addressing multiple strategic needs.
10. Arshdeep Singh – ₹18 Crore (Punjab Kings, 2025)
Emerging as one of India’s promising fast bowlers, Arshdeep Singh was retained by the Punjab Kings for ₹18 crore in the 2025 auction. Known for his death-over bowling skills and composure under pressure, Arshdeep has been instrumental in PBKS’s bowling attack.
His consistent performances in the IPL, including crucial breakthroughs in powerplays and effective death bowling, have made him an indispensable part of Punjab Kings. Arshdeep’s ability to deliver yorkers at will and handle high-pressure situations has justified the massive bid, making him one of the highest-paid Indian pacers in IPL history. His rapid rise in international cricket has only added to his value, with many predicting that Arshdeep will be a key figure for India in future ICC tournaments.
Conclusion
The IPL auction continues to break barriers, with franchises willing to invest heavily in players who can deliver under pressure, provide leadership, and adapt to various match situations. The 2025 auction set new records, with Indian players like Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer leading the list of the most expensive acquisitions, reflecting the growing emphasis on local talent.
Interestingly, the list also highlights the enduring value of experienced international stars such as Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, and Nicholas Pooran, who bring not just skill but also global fan bases. The emergence of young Indian players like Arshdeep Singh further underscores the depth of talent in the country, with franchises betting big on future stars.
The IPL’s ability to attract record-breaking bids year after year shows the tournament’s global appeal, where cricketing brilliance meets commercial success. As franchises continue to strategize and build winning combinations, fans can look forward to more thrilling auctions and electrifying on-field performances in the years to come.
Anurag is the founder and editor of SportsScroller.com, a premier platform dedicated to delivering comprehensive coverage of various sports, including cricket, football, volleyball, basketball, and chess. With a deep passion for sports journalism, Anurag ensures that the content is both engaging and informative, catering to sports enthusiasts and professionals alike. Because of his passion and under his leadership, SportsScroller.com has become a trusted source for the latest sports news, in-depth analyses, and insightful articles, reflecting his commitment to excellence in sports media.
