High-Bid Heroes: The Most Expensive Players in IPL History
Have you ever wondered which players ruled in the IPL auction history in terms of bids? Every year, record-shattering bids redefine cricket’s financial landscape—from MS Dhoni’s ₹9.5 crore bid in 2008 to Rishabh Pants' ₹27 crore in 2025. These high-bid heroes aren’t just players; they are assets driving intense bidding wars. This excitement extends beyond the auction room with fans using different platforms to IPL predict and win, turning their cricket insights into real rewards.
Do you want to get involved and earn rewards for your cricket knowledge? You can use platforms like Cricket Opinion and Prediction while using the auction trends and analysis. Your cricket knowledge becomes your money-making opportunity as you identify future legends of the game. Are you ready to make your prediction and win rewards? Dive into the action—your knowledge could pay off!
Who is the Most Expensive Player in IPL 2025?
Rishabh Pant became the costliest player in the IPL 2025 auction and IPL history as he was signed by Lucknow Supergiants for ₹27 crore. Rishabh Pant was earlier a key player of Delhi Capitals with an excellent track record and now he will shine for the Lucknow Supergiants.
Just behind, Shreyas Iyer was bought by Punjab Kings for ₹26.75 crore. These record premiers’ bids have underlined the increasing commercial interest in the IPL. Viewers can benefit from this key information that helps them to engage in IPL predict and win apps where they can make accurate prediction and earn money.
Most Expensive Players in IPL History (2008-2025)
Check out this list of the most Costliest IPL Players in history from 2008-2025. Such high-profile players are still winning the bid records at the highest level, and here they are. Get involved in the fun by using IPL predict and win platforms to get your predictions right and turn your cricket insights into rewards this season!
Here is the list of all the seasons with the highest-paid player:
Ms Dhoni – 2008
In the inaugural IPL auction, MS Dhoni was bought by Chennai Super Kings for a record Rs 9.5 crore, marking the start of his iconic journey and shaping CSK’s legacy as a dominant force in the tournament.
Kevin Pietersen - 2009
In the 2009 IPL auction, Kevin Pietersen became the center of attention, with Royal Challengers Bangalore securing his services for a significant amount of ₹9.8 crore. This marked a major moment in the auction, highlighting Pietersen’s value as a top-tier player for RCB.
Shane Bond - 2010
In the 2010 IPL auction, Shane Bond became the highest-paid player, getting ₹4.8 crore. The New Zealand fast bowler’s ability to deliver match-winning performances made him a sought-after asset, and Kolkata Knight Riders secured him for their pace attack.
Gautam Gambhir - 2011
Gautam Gambhir became the most expensive player in the 2011 IPL auction with a ₹14.9 crore bid from Kolkata Knight Riders. His leadership then guided KKR to multiple titles, making him one of the most successful captains in IPL history.
Ravindra Jadeja - 2012
In 2012, Ravindra Jadeja became a sensation when Chennai Super Kings spent ₹12.8 crore to secure his all-round talents. His consistent performances with both bat and ball proved CSK's investment was well worth it.
Glenn Maxwell – 2013
In 2013, Glenn Maxwell became the most expensive player in the IPL, with Mumbai Indians securing him for ₹6.3 crore. Despite interest from multiple teams, Mumbai outbid them, hoping his aggressive batting would boost their lineup's strength.
Yuvraj Singh - 2014
Yuvraj Singh, known as the 'King of Sixes,' was highly coveted in both the 2014 and 2015 IPL auctions. Royal Challengers Bangalore secured him for Rs 14 crore, making him one of the highest-paid players during that period. This was also the season when platforms like skill gaming apps started booming and fans got rewarded for their skills and cricket knowledge.
Yuvraj Singh - 2015
Yuvraj Singh’s stellar performance for RCB in 2014 sparked a bidding frenzy, leading Delhi Daredevils to splurge in 2015. However, despite the hefty investment, Yuvraj was unable to replicate his earlier form that season.
Shane Watson - 2016
In the 2016 IPL auction, Australian all-rounder Shane Watson was acquired by Royal Challengers Bangalore for a whopping ₹9.5 crore. Watson’s explosive batting and useful bowling made him a key addition to the team.
Ben Stokes - 2017
Ben Stokes made a massive impact at the IPL auctions in 2017 and 2018, with Rising Pune Supergiant acquiring him for ₹14.5 crore. This deal made him one of the highest-paid players in IPL history.
Ben Stokes - 2018
Rajasthan Royals paid a hefty sum for Ben Stokes, expecting him to deliver based on his previous season’s form. However, the English all-rounder struggled to replicate that success, leaving the team disappointed with his performance. In the year 2018, IPL predict and win platforms were shaping the IPL industry as it was the year when digital literacy also exploded in India.
Jaydev Unadkat - 2019
In the 2019 IPL auction, Indian pacer Jaydev Unadkat and mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy both fetched ₹8.4 crore, making them the joint-most expensive players. Rajasthan Royals and Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings) secured their services.
Pat Cummins - 2020
In 2020, Australian pacer Pat Cummins made history in the IPL auction when Kolkata Knight Riders secured him for a record ₹15.5 crore. This bid made him the most expensive overseas player in IPL history at the time.
Chris Morris - 2021
In the 2021 IPL auction, Chris Morris made history as the most expensive player at the time. Rajasthan Royals secured his services for a record-breaking ₹16.25 crore, marking a significant moment in IPL's auction history.
Ishan Kishan - 2022
Ishan Kishan, the young wicketkeeper-batsman, caught everyone’s attention in the 2022 auction. Mumbai Indians acquired him for a massive ₹15.25 crore, showcasing their trust in his abilities to bolster their lineup with his dynamic talent.
