Top 10 Most Expensive Players in IPL History

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Every new IPL season begins with an important event: the auction. During the auction, teams buy new players for their roster. These can be either players who have already played in the IPL, or newcomers without experience in professional cricket (young), as well as foreigners and cricketers from other leagues. On the 4a Bet, you can place your bets on cricket or other sports events from all over the world. 

The player’s price matters a lot. Each team has a limited wallet. In IPL 2024, the purse limit is 100 Crores. The price of a player depends on his experience, physical form and parameters, specialization, past teams, and statistics. Media popularity is of great importance. Long price wars begin for experienced and famous players. Every year, teams update records for the most expensive purchases.

Most Expensive Players In IPL History

Expensive purchases include player purchases made for amounts over 10 Crores. Teams come to mini-auctions with a remaining purse of about 10-30 Crores, rarely more. Therefore, prices for players above 10 Crores empty the wallet, leaving little finance for subsequent purchases. Therefore, an expensive player is always a risky bet for every franchise buyer.

Here are the most expensive purchases in the entire history of the IPL (including foreigners):

Name	Year of the Birth	Team	Country	Price, Crores	IPL Year
Sam Curran	1998	Punjab Kings	England	18.5	2023
Cameron Green	1999	Mumbai Indians	Australia	17.5	2023
Ben Stokes	1991	Chennai Super Kings	England	16.25	2023
Chris Morris	1987	Rajasthan Royals	South Africa	16.25	2022
Nicholas Pooran	1995	Lucknow Super Giants	Trinidad and Tobago	16	2021
Yuvraj Singh	1981	Delhi Daredevils	India	16	2015
Rohit Sharma	1987	Mumbai Indians	India	16	2023
Ravindra Jadeja	1988	Chennai Super Kings	India	16	2023
Rishabh Pant	1997	Delhi Capitals	India	16	2023
Ishan Kishan	1998	Mumbai Indians	India	15.25	2022

Next, we will tell you more about each participant in this table.

Sam Curran

Played in IPL since 2020

Role: bowling all-rounder

Sam Curran, hailing from a cricketing lineage, has firmly established himself as a versatile left-arm seamer and a handy lower-order batsman. Born into a family with cricketing roots — his grandfather a First-Class cricketer for Rhodesia and his father a national cricketer for Zimbabwe – Curran’s journey led him to the United Kingdom, where he relocated to pursue his cricketing career.

Known for his natural ability to swing the ball away from right-handers, Curran made his mark at an early age, becoming the second-youngest player to debut for Surrey in First-Class cricket at just 17 years and 40 days. His rapid progression included representing England in the under-19 World Cup and earning a spot in the England Lions’ tour to the UAE. A Test debut against Pakistan in 2018 marked his entry into international cricket.

Curran’s breakout moment came during the 2018 home series against India, where his all-around prowess, especially with the bat, played a pivotal role in England’s 4-1 series victory, earning him the Man of the Series award. While facing challenges, including injuries and fluctuating form in red-ball cricket, Curran excelled in white-ball formats. His standout performance in the 2022 T20I World Cup, where he played a key role in England’s triumph, showcased his development as a death-over bowler and earned him the Player of the Tournament title.

Despite occasional dips in form, Sam Curran remains a key asset in England’s white-ball setup, known for his improved bowling and valuable contributions with the bat. In the IPL, he has had stints with Punjab Kings and Chennai Super Kings, becoming the most expensive player in IPL history in 2023 when he rejoined Punjab Kings after a successful T20 World Cup campaign.

Cameron Green

Played in IPL since 2023

Role: Batting Allrounder

Cameron Green, the Australian cricket sensation, was earmarked for international success from a young age. Signed by Western Australia as a schoolboy, he marked his first-class debut in February 2017 with an impressive bowling display, claiming 5 for 24 against Tasmania at the age of 17. Despite early challenges with stress fractures, Green’s unwavering passion for scoring runs and his technically sound batting skills transformed him into a rare all-rounder. His breakthrough came in the 2019-20 season, where he notched his maiden first-class century and followed it up with two more, including a career-best 197 against New South Wales in October 2020.

Green’s stellar performances didn’t go unnoticed, earning him a call-up to Australia’s ODI and T20I squads against India. Making his Test debut against the same opposition, he consistently contributed with half-centuries in his initial series and showcased his bowling prowess with a maiden five-wicket haul against South Africa. His remarkable cross-format skills were further highlighted in the T20I arena, especially during the 2022 IPL auction, where Mumbai Indians secured him for a staggering AU $3.15 million after his impressive T20I displays in India. Green’s remarkable journey from a budding talent to a sought-after all-rounder underlines his potential as a significant force in Australian cricket.

Ben Stokes

Played in IPL since 2017

Role: all-rounder

Ben Stokes from New Zealand is the most dynamic all-rounder in contemporary cricket. Stokes, a left-handed batsman renowned for his powerful hitting and the capability to anchor significant innings, seamlessly complements these skills with his prowess as a bowler, often providing crucial breakthroughs with his moderate-paced deliveries. From signing a county contract with Durham at 18 to his triumphant performances in international cricket, Stokes has navigated challenges, disciplinary setbacks, and injuries, emerging as a versatile and impactful force in the cricketing world.

In 2022, Stokes took on the mantle of England’s Test captaincy after Joe Root’s resignation, ushering in a new era of attacking cricket termed “Bazball” alongside coach Brendon McCullum. Under his leadership, England experienced success, winning 13 out of 18 Tests and earning admiration for their aggressive playing style. Despite briefly retiring from ODIs in 2022, Stokes made a remarkable comeback ahead of the 2023 50-over World Cup, delivering a breathtaking innings of 182 off 124 against New Zealand.

In the 2017 IPL auctions, Rising Pune Supergiant secured Stokes in a record-breaking deal, and he didn’t disappoint. Stokes’ maiden IPL season he showcased his versatility, proving to be a pivotal player for RPS with both bat and ball. In 2017, Stokes amassed over 300 runs and claimed more than 10 wickets, marking him as one of the most valuable players of the season.

Despite a lucrative deal with the Rajasthan Royals in the subsequent seasons (2018 and 2019), Stokes faced challenges, not meeting the high standards he had set. A finger injury in the 2021 season limited his appearances, and he opted out of the 2022 season to concentrate on national commitments. Returning to the IPL in 2023 with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Stokes showcased his resilience, even amidst an injury setback in the form of a toe injury. 

Chris Morris

Played in IPL since 2013

Role: bowling all-rounder

Chris Morris, a powerhouse all-rounder, possesses a unique ability to impact a cricket match significantly with both bat and ball. Gifted with the talent to crank up the speed gun, generate bounce, and unleash powerful hitting, Morris is a coveted asset in limited-overs formats. Despite his late entry into professional cricket, making his First-Class debut at 22 for North West in 2009, Morris swiftly established himself as a leading bowler. His standout performance in the 2011/12 domestic T20 competition, where he emerged as the highest wicket-taker with 21 scalps, caught the attention of selectors, earning him a spot in the T20I squad touring Zimbabwe.

Morris’s prowess continued to shine on the T20 stage, particularly in the IPL. In the 2013 auctions, Chennai Super Kings secured him for US$650,000, and he played a pivotal role in guiding the team to the final. His success prompted a lucrative deal with Delhi Daredevils in 2016, where he finished as the leading wicket-taker. His Test debut for South Africa followed, and in ODIs, Morris showcased his power-hitting prowess, notably turning the tide against England in a crucial match. Although initially overlooked for major tournaments, Morris earned a spot in the 2019 World Cup squad due to an injury, demonstrating resilience and determination. As he enjoys a consistent run in ODIs, Morris remains a dynamic force, poised to make the most of every opportunity on the cricketing stage.

Nicholas Pooran

Played in IPL since 2019

Role: Wicket-keeper batsman

Nicholas Pooran, a left-handed dynamo, has rapidly ascended the ranks of West Indian cricket, establishing himself as a formidable force with both bat and gloves. Pooran’s breakthrough came at the young age of 16 during the 2013 Caribbean Premier League (CPL) when he signed up for Trinidad Red Steel. In his debut match, he etched his name in history by becoming the youngest player to feature in the CPL, leaving a mark with a 54 off just 24 balls. 

Pooran faced a setback with an ankle injury sustained in a car accident, sidelining him for nearly two years. His return in the 2016 CPL season, where he scored 217 runs in eight games, catapulted him back into the international arena, earning him a cap against Pakistan later that year. However, his journey was fraught with challenges, as a decision to participate in the Bangladesh Premier League led to a 10-month ban.

A pivotal moment in Pooran’s career occurred during the 2018 Canada Global T20 League, where his stellar performances with CWI-B not only rejuvenated his career but also brought him back into the national reckoning. 

Making his IPL debut in 2019 for the Lucknow franchise, he quickly rose to prominence as a prolific run-scorer in the T20. Throughout his IPL journey spanning 62 matches, Nicholas Pooran has accumulated 1270 runs at an average of 27.02. His remarkable contribution includes six half-centuries, with the highest score of 77 runs. What sets Pooran apart is his ability to clear the boundaries, evident in his tally of 78 fours and an impressive 91 sixes in the IPL. In a significant development during the IPL Auction 2023, the Lucknow franchise secured Pooran’s services for a whopping Rs 16.00 Cr.

Pooran’s IPL saga took a turn in May 2023 when he played his last match against Mumbai at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium, in Chennai, India. The match concluded with a modest score of 0 runs off 1 ball for Pooran.

Yuvraj Singh

Played in IPL from 2008 to 2019

Role: batting all-rounder

Yuvraj Singh’s cricketing journey is synonymous with his flair for match-winning performances. Bursting onto the international scene in 2000, Yuvraj’s audacious strokeplay and electric fielding elevated India’s standards. His 2002 Natwest final heroics and contributions to India’s limited-overs success marked him as a dynamic middle-order batsman and left-arm spinner. The inaugural World T20 in 2007 witnessed Yuvraj’s historic six sixes in an over, solidifying his reputation as a big-game player.

In the IPL, Yuvraj’s impact transcended multiple franchises. Leading Kings XI Punjab initially, he later donned colors for Pune Warriors, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and others. His association with Mumbai Indians in 2019, his sixth IPL team, showcased his adaptability. Despite facing a first-round snub in the 2019 auctions, Yuvraj’s resilience shone through as Mumbai Indians extended a lifeline, marking the twilight of a legendary career that left an indelible imprint on Indian cricket.

Rohit Sharma

Played in IPL since 2008

Role: right-handed batsman

Rohit Sharma’s cricketing voyage mirrors the weight of early expectations, laden with the tag of being a Mumbai prodigy. Identified in his teens for his effortless strokeplay, Rohit’s fame skyrocketed when he notched an unbeaten triple-hundred in Ranji Trophy. His international debut in the 2007 World T20, replacing an injured Yuvraj Singh, showcased his prowess against quality bowlers. Initially touted as Tendulkar’s successor, Rohit faced inconsistency and shot-selection criticism, leading to a struggle for a permanent spot.

Crucially, the Indian Premier League (IPL) became Rohit’s sanctuary. From impactful stints with Deccan Chargers to Mumbai Indians, he showcased consistent performances. The move to open in ODIs, termed a “masterstroke,” marked a turning point, as Rohit established himself as a white-ball giant. His Test journey faced hurdles but gained momentum post-2018, aligning with his white-ball supremacy. As captain, he led India to series victories, succeeding Kohli across formats in 2022.

Rohit’s IPL journey encapsulates a transformation. Initially flourishing with Deccan Chargers, he reached new heights upon returning to Mumbai Indians. In the 2013 season, his prolific batting played a pivotal role in MI’s maiden title triumph. Beyond batting, Rohit’s leadership flourished, guiding MI to five IPL titles. His astute captaincy, strategic acumen, and ability to lead from the front have made him synonymous with IPL success. Rohit’s knack for handling pressure in crucial situations and nurturing a winning culture has etched his name in IPL folklore. Among the tournament’s top run-scorers, his impact extends beyond personal milestones, solidifying him as an IPL icon and a leader par excellence.

Ravindra Jadeja

Played in IPL since 2008

Role: Bowling all-rounder

Ravindra Jadeja, affectionately known as ‘Sir,’ has scripted an extraordinary cricketing saga, overcoming early setbacks to emerge as a stalwart for the Indian team. The moniker, initially a jest, soon transformed into a tribute to his relentless spirit and all-round prowess. After a challenging start marked by a disappointing 2009 World T20, Jadeja faced criticism but found unwavering support from captain MS Dhoni. His resilience shone in domestic circuits, with a gradual rise as a formidable all-rounder.

The turning point came with his Test debut against Australia in 2012-13, where he played a pivotal role in India’s historic whitewash. Jadeja’s remarkable performance extended to limited-overs cricket, winning the Golden Ball in India’s Champions Trophy triumph in 2013. Paired with Ravichandran Ashwin, he formed a formidable Test spin duo. While adapting to changing white-ball dynamics, Jadeja’s diverse skills, encompassing exceptional fielding and crucial lower-order contributions, made him an invaluable asset. Recurring injuries to Hardik Pandya provided Jadeja renewed opportunities, solidifying his spot in the limited-overs setup.

Ravindra Jadeja’s journey in the Indian Premier League (IPL) mirrors his overall cricketing narrative. Discovered by Shane Warne while playing for the Rajasthan Royals, Jadeja’s career blossomed as he became a vital part of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). His stint with CSK was temporarily interrupted due to the franchise’s suspension, leading him to represent the Gujarat Lions. However, upon CSK’s return, Jadeja’s pivotal role was evident, earning him a retention spot.

In the 2021 IPL, Jadeja delivered a standout performance, scoring 227 runs and claiming 13 wickets. His exceptional all-round display led to a significant INR 16 crore bid from CSK in the 2022 mega auction, where he was also appointed captain. While a brief hiatus from captaincy occurred, Jadeja’s leadership and playing role were integral to CSK. Despite reports of discord, he returned for the 2023 season, demonstrating his unwavering commitment and significance in the IPL arena.

Rishabh Pant

Played in IPL from 2016 to 2022

Role: Wicket-keeper batsman

Known for his explosive batting style and agility behind the stumps, Pant emerged as a cricketing prodigy in his early years. His breakthrough moment came in the 2016 Under-19 Cricket World Cup, where he showcased his remarkable talent as a wicketkeeper-batsman. His aggressive approach and penchant for scoring quick runs drew attention, earning him a spot in the Indian Premier League (IPL) with the Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals).

Pant’s journey to the national team was accelerated by his consistent performances in domestic cricket and the IPL. He made his Test debut against England in 2018, followed by his ODI debut later that year. Pant’s fearless batting and electric glovework quickly established him as a vital asset, especially in Test cricket. His memorable performances include a historic Test century at the Gabba in Australia in 2021, contributing significantly to India’s series triumph. As a dynamic and versatile player, Pant has become a linchpin for India across formats, adding flair to the team with his aggressive brand of cricket.

In the IPL, Pant rose to prominence as a swashbuckling batsman for the Delhi Daredevils, showcasing his ability to play match-winning innings. His explosive batting style, combined with a penchant for innovative shot-making, endeared him to fans and made him a sought-after player in the league. Pant’s aggressive performances in the IPL not only earned him accolades but also solidified his reputation as a game-changer. His impact in the IPL played a pivotal role in his international career, showcasing his ability to handle pressure situations and deliver outstanding performances on the big stage.

Ishan Kishan

Played in IPL since 2016

Role: Wicket-keeper batsman

Hailing from the cricketing hub of Jharkhand, Ishan Kishan has emerged as a promising young talent in Indian cricket, particularly as a dynamic left-handed opener and wicketkeeper-batsman. His journey into the limelight began in 2016 when he captained the India under-19 team in the World Cup held in Dhaka. Although his performance with the bat was modest, Kishan’s leadership guided India to the tournament finals. Following the World Cup, he made a significant impact in domestic cricket, notably as the leading run-scorer for Jharkhand in the Ranji Trophy, amassing an impressive 799 runs, including a career-best 273 against Delhi.

In the post-MS Dhoni era, Kishan has positioned himself as a strong contender among the talented pool of wicketkeeper-batsmen vying for a place in the Indian team. His aggressive style of play, reminiscent of his Jharkhand predecessor Dhoni, showcases his ability to accelerate the game, especially in the limited-overs format. The Indian Premier League (IPL) has been a crucial platform for Kishan’s growth, providing him opportunities to display his attacking prowess. Starting with the Gujarat Lions in 2017, Kishan’s impressive performances caught the eye, and he became a hot commodity in the 2018 IPL auctions. The Mumbai Indians secured his services for a substantial INR 6.2 crores, where he continued to make headlines with his powerful hitting, including a memorable 21-ball 62 against the Kolkata Knight Riders. Despite occasional dips in form, Kishan’s electrifying strike rate of nearly 150 at the end of the season solidified his reputation as a young player to watch in Indian cricket.

Most Expensive Players In Each IPL Season

Each season had its records for the most expensive purchases. We have collected the results of all IPL auctions from 2008 to 2023 (inclusive) for the most valuable players:

IPL Year	Most Expensive Player	Team	Price, Crores
2008	MS Dhoni	Chennai Super Kings	9.5
2009	Kevin Pietersen and Andrew Flintoff	Royal Challengers Bangalore and Chennai Super Kings	9.8
2010	Shane Bond and Kieron Pollard	Kolkata Knight Riders and Mumbai Indians	4.8
2011	Gautam Gambhir	Kolkata Knight Riders	14.9
2012	Ravindra Jadeja	Chennai Super Kings	12.8
2013	Glenn Maxwell	Mumbai Indians	6.3
2014	Yuvraj Singh	Royal Challengers Bangalore	14
2015	Yuvraj Singh	Delhi Daredevils	16
2016	Shane Watson	Royal Challengers Bangalore	9.5
2017	Ben Stokes	Rising Pune Supergiant	14.5
2018	Ben Stokes	Rajasthan Royals	12.5
2019	Jaydev Unadkat and Varun Chakravarthy	Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings	8.4
2020	Pat Cummins	Kolkata Knight Riders	15.5
2021	Chris Morris	Rajasthan Royals	16.25
2022	Ishan Kishan	Mumbai Indians	15.25
2023	Sam Curran	Punjab Kings	18.5

Conclusion

A player’s price depends on his experience, fitness, track record, statistics and specialization. Franchises are willing to pay a lot of money only for very promising players because their wallet is limited by IPL rules (no more than 100 Crores for the auction before IPL 2024, for example). By buying an expensive player, the franchise is making a risky bet on him. Because after an expensive purchase, there is little money left in the team’s purse for other cricketers.

30 Most Expensive Players In IPL 2023 Video

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