The IPL 2025 mega auction concluded on Monday (November 25) in Jeddah after an intense two-day event, with 577 players going under the hammer. With each team receiving an increased purse of Rs 120 crore, franchises made strategic moves to build their squads for the next three seasons.
Here’s a look at the top 10 most expensive players from the 2024 edition of the Indian Premier League –
Rishabh Pant – Rs 27 Crore
The left-handed wicketkeeper-batter has become a cornerstone of India’s T20 lineup and is heading to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for a massive Rs 27 crore. This makes him the most expensive player in IPL history. Pant is also expected to take on leadership responsibilities at LSG.
Shreyas Iyer – Rs 26.75 Crore
The Indian middle-order batter, known for his aggressive play against spin, has led both Delhi Capitals (DC) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to IPL finals. Iyer’s consistent form and leadership qualities secured him a lucrative Rs 26.75 crore deal.
Venkatesh Iyer – Rs 23.75 Crore
KKR’s loyalty to Venkatesh Iyer paid off, as the all-rounder earned Rs 23.75 crore. His steady performances in the playoffs made him a highly sought-after player, with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) going all out to secure his services.
Arshdeep Singh – Rs 18 Crore
The left-arm pacer was a standout performer for India in their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup-winning campaign. Despite not being retained by Punjab Kings (PBKS), they exercised their Right to Match (RTM) card, bringing him back for Rs 18 crore.
Yuzvendra Chahal – Rs 18 Crore
The Rajasthan Royals (RR) leg-spinner, now the leading wicket-taker in IPL history, was bought by PBKS for Rs 18 crore. Chahal’s skill set, especially in larger grounds, makes him a potent weapon for PBKS.
Jos Buttler – Rs 15.75 Crore
Gujarat Titans (GT) secured England’s wicketkeeper-batter Jos Buttler for Rs 15.75 crore. Buttler, the 2022 Orange Cap winner, will strengthen GT’s top order and is also expected to take on wicket-keeping duties.
KL Rahul – Rs 14 Crore
DC chose to replace Rishabh Pant with KL Rahul, securing the wicketkeeper-batter for Rs 14 crore. Rahul’s leadership abilities might put him in a captaincy battle with Faf du Plessis, who joined DC for just Rs 2 crore.
Trent Boult – Rs 12.5 Crore
The New Zealand pacer made a return to Mumbai Indians (MI) for Rs 12.5 crore. Boult will add firepower to MI’s pace attack, particularly in the powerplay, alongside Jasprit Bumrah and Deepak Chahar.
Josh Hazlewood – Rs 12.5 Crore
RCB secured the Australian pacer for Rs 12.5 crore. Hazlewood’s skill in mixing up lengths and delivering yorkers has made him a key player for RCB, especially in the death overs.
Jofra Archer – Rs 12.5 Crore
Despite injury setbacks, Jofra Archer was bought by Rajasthan Royals (RR) for Rs 12.5 crore. Archer is set to make a fresh start with RR after an injury-hit stint with Mumbai Indians (MI).