Australian Cameron Green leads the IPL’s all-time auction list, but who else makes the top 10?
With franchises investing heavily in all-rounders and proven match-winners across recent seasons, take a look at the most expensive IPL player auctions ever.
1. Cameron Green – Kolkata Knight Riders (2026)
25.20 crore (R58-million)
Green became the most expensive player in IPL history in 2026. A genuine all-rounder, he offers top-order batting and seam bowling. His recent T20 returns, including a strike rate above 150, and ability to contribute across phases drove his record price.
2. Mitchell Starc – Kolkata Knight Riders (2024)
24.75 crore (R57-million)
Starc’s value lies in wicket-taking ability in both the powerplay and death overs. With over 60 IPL wickets and consistent performances in global T20 leagues, he remains one of the world’s most effective fast bowlers.
3. Pat Cummins – Sunrisers Hyderabad (2024)
20.50 crore (R47-million)
The third Australian on this list, Cummins combines leadership with performances in key phases. He has over 60 IPL wickets and adds lower-order hitting, making him a high-value all-format performer.
4. Sam Curran – Punjab Kings (2023)
18.50 crore (R42-million)
Curran’s price reflects his versatility. He can bowl in all phases and contributes late-order runs. His performances in ICC tournaments strengthened his profile as a complete T20 all-rounder.
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5. Ben Stokes – Chennai Super Kings (2023)
16.25 crore (R37-million)
England’s captain and most valued player, Ben Stokes offers experience and adaptability. He has over 900 IPL runs and provides a seam option, with a track record of performing in high-pressure matches.
6. Chris Morris – Rajasthan Royals (2021)
16.25 crore (R37-million)
The only South African on this list, Morris was signed for his finishing and death bowling. He ended his IPL career with more than 80 wickets and a strike rate above 150 with the bat.
7. Nicholas Pooran – Lucknow Super Giants (2023)
16 crore (R37-million)
Pooran’s power hitting makes him one of the most dangerous middle-order batters, with a T20 strike rate above 140.
8. Yuvraj Singh – Delhi Daredevils (2015)
16.00 crore (R37-million)
A mainstay of the Indian national team, Yuvraj commanded a record fee at the time due to his status as a proven international match-winner and experienced finisher across multiple formats.
9. Ishan Kishan – Mumbai Indians (2022)
15.25 crore (R35-million)
Kishan provides aggressive starts as a wicketkeeper-batsman. He has over 2,000 IPL runs and offers long-term value at the top of the order.
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10. Deepak Chahar – Chennai Super Kings (2022)
14 crore (R32-million)
Chahar’s swing bowling in the powerplay makes him a specialist asset. His ability to take early wickets and contribute lower-order runs increases his value.
With limited budgets and extreme competition, the pressure to maximise every IPL wallet sets a clear trend. All-rounders and fast bowlers dominate the highest prices, reflecting the premium placed on players who can influence multiple phases of a T20 match.
Photo: Francis Mascarenhas/Reuters
