When we talk about big money deals in the Indian Premier League (IPL), nothing grabs a fan’s attention like the jaw-dropping auction prices. Over the years, as the league has grown in popularity and financial power, franchise owners have been willing to spend massive amounts of money to secure the services of top cricketers.
Today, the record for the most expensive player in IPL history belongs to Indian star batter Rishabh Pant.
Record-Breaking IPL Auction Price: Rishabh Pant (₹27 Crore)
In the IPL 2025 mega auction held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) made history when they secured Rishabh Pant for a massive ₹27 crore, which currently stands as the highest bid ever recorded in IPL auction history.
Pant’s explosive batting, dynamic wicket-keeping, and match-winning ability made him one of the hottest commodities in the auction room. While he is a batter, even the top bowlers with expensive bowling spells have seen intense bidding wars, but Pant’s all-round potential and fan appeal allowed LSG to clinch him at this record price.
Top Most Expensive IPL Players (All-Time)
Here is a quick snapshot of players who have topped IPL auctions through the years, showcasing how auction values have skyrocketed:
| Rank | Player | Team (Auction) | Auction Price (INR) | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rishabh Pant | Lucknow Super Giants | ₹27 crore | 2025 |
| 2 | Shreyas Iyer | Punjab Kings | ₹26.75 crore | 2025 |
| 3 | Cameron Green | Kolkata Knight Riders | ₹25.20 crore | 2026 |
| 4 | Mitchell Starc | Kolkata Knight Riders | ₹24.75 crore | 2024 |
| 5 | Pat Cummins | Sunrisers Hyderabad | ₹20.50 crore | 2024 |
These figures clearly show how IPL auctions have escalated. Even bowlers known for delivering expensive bowling spells have commanded huge sums, proving that teams are willing to invest heavily in players who can change the game.
Why Did Pant Fetch Such a High Price?
Here is why Rishabh Pant became the costliest player in IPL history:
Explosive Batting Style
Pant is known for his fearless hitting and ability to change the course of a match in just a few overs, a quality IPL teams are always chasing.
Leadership Potential
Pant also brings leadership skills, having captained in various franchise and international settings.
Marketability and Fan Appeal
Being one of India’s most popular cricketers, Pant attracts fans, sponsors, and global attention, making him a valuable brand asset for IPL teams.
Performance in Pressure Situations
Whether chasing big totals or handling tight finishes, Pant has repeatedly shown he thrives under pressure, an invaluable quality in T20 cricket. Similarly, bowlers who produce expensive bowling spells can still impact the game, but the cost reflects both the risk and the match-winning potential.
Record Trends: How IPL Auction Values Have Grown
It is fascinating to see how IPL auction values have climbed over time:
- In 2008, players like MS Dhoni and Kevin Pietersen were among the costliest buys, with bids under ₹10 crore.
- By the 2020s, international stars like Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc began attracting ₹20+ crore deals.
- Now in 2025, Indian players like Pant and Iyer are breaking records and topping the charts.
This evolution reflects not just inflation but also how valuable elite T20 talent has become in a globally followed league like the IPL. Bowlers delivering expensive bowling spells are still prized, showing that match-changing skills are always in high demand.
Final Answer: Most Expensive Player in IPL History
Rishabh Pant holds the crown as the most expensive player in IPL auction history, with a winning bid of ₹27 crore in the IPL 2025 auction. This milestone showcases both his talent and the financial firepower of IPL franchises. Bowlers with expensive bowling spells may still influence matches, but Pant’s all-round abilities and marketability set a new benchmark in IPL history.
