Top 20 Highest Paid IPL Players in 2025

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 auction, held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, witnessed unprecedented bidding wars, resulting in record-breaking contracts for several players. Franchises demonstrated their commitment to strengthening their squads by investing heavily in both domestic and international talent. Below is a comprehensive overview of the top 20 highest-paid players from the auction, highlighting their base prices and the final amounts they were sold for.

Most Expensive IPL Players in 2025

1. Rishabh Pant – Lucknow Super Giants (₹27 Crore)

Rishabh Pant’s aggressive batting and leadership qualities made him the most sought-after player in the 2025 auction. The Lucknow Super Giants secured his services for a record ₹27 crore, making him the highest-paid player in IPL history. Pant’s ability to change the course of a match single-handedly adds immense value to the team.

2. Shreyas Iyer – Punjab Kings (₹26.75 Crore)

Shreyas Iyer’s consistent performances and leadership experience attracted a massive bid from the Punjab Kings. Acquired for ₹26.75 crore, Iyer is expected to bolster the team’s middle order and provide strategic depth.

3. Venkatesh Iyer – Kolkata Knight Riders (₹23.75 Crore)

In a surprising move, the Kolkata Knight Riders invested ₹23.75 crore to bring back Venkatesh Iyer. His all-round capabilities and previous success with the franchise likely influenced this significant investment.

4. Arshdeep Singh – Punjab Kings (₹18 Crore, RTM)

The Punjab Kings utilized their Right to Match (RTM) card to retain Arshdeep Singh for ₹18 crore. His prowess in death-over bowling has been instrumental in the team’s past performances.

5. Yuzvendra Chahal – Punjab Kings (₹18 Crore)

Yuzvendra Chahal’s leg-spin has been a game-changer in many matches. The Punjab Kings secured him for ₹18 crore, aiming to strengthen their spin department.

6. Jos Buttler – Gujarat Titans (₹15.75 Crore)

England’s Jos Buttler, known for his explosive batting at the top order, was acquired by the Gujarat Titans for ₹15.75 crore. His inclusion is expected to provide a solid start in the batting lineup.

7. KL Rahul – Delhi Capitals (₹14 Crore)

KL Rahul’s versatility as an opener and wicketkeeper-batsman made him a valuable asset. The Delhi Capitals secured him for ₹14 crore, aiming to enhance their top-order stability.

8. Mohammed Siraj – Gujarat Titans (₹12.25 Crore)

Mohammed Siraj’s impressive pace and ability to swing the ball earned him a ₹12.25 crore contract with the Gujarat Titans. His presence is expected to add firepower to their bowling attack.

9. Jofra Archer – Rajasthan Royals (₹12.5 Crore)

Despite injury concerns in the past, Jofra Archer’s raw pace and match-winning abilities led the Rajasthan Royals to invest ₹12.5 crore in him. His return is anticipated to boost their bowling lineup.

10. Josh Hazlewood – Royal Challengers Bangalore (₹12.5 Crore)

Josh Hazlewood’s consistent line and length, combined with his experience, made him a valuable pick for the Royal Challengers Bangalore at ₹12.5 crore.

11. Trent Boult – Mumbai Indians (₹12.5 Crore)

The Mumbai Indians secured Trent Boult for ₹12.5 crore, aiming to strengthen their pace attack with his left-arm.

12. Mitchell Starc – Delhi Capitals (₹11.75 Crore)

Australian pacer Mitchell Starc, one of the most formidable bowlers in world cricket, was picked by the Delhi Capitals for ₹11.75 crore. Starc’s lethal pace and ability to deliver in crunch moments make him a significant asset for DC as they aim for their maiden IPL title.

13. Ishan Kishan – Sunrisers Hyderabad (₹11.25 Crore)

Wicketkeeper-batsman Ishan Kishan was acquired by Sunrisers Hyderabad for ₹11.25 crore. Kishan’s aggressive batting at the top order and agility behind the stumps make him a valuable asset, particularly in the shorter format.

14. Marcus Stoinis – Punjab Kings (₹11 Crore)

Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis, known for his big-hitting ability and useful medium-pace bowling, was signed by the Punjab Kings for ₹11 crore. Stoinis is expected to provide balance to the team with his all-round skills and experience in T20 cricket.

15. Kagiso Rabada – Gujarat Titans (₹10.75 Crore)

South African speedster Kagiso Rabada was snapped up by the Gujarat Titans for ₹10.75 crore. Known for his lethal yorkers and ability to bowl in high-pressure situations, Rabada is a vital addition to their bowling arsenal. His IPL experience and ability to perform consistently make him a game-changer.

16. Mohammed Shami – Sunrisers Hyderabad (₹10 Crore)

Mohammed Shami, one of India’s most reliable pacers, joined the Sunrisers Hyderabad for ₹10 crore. Renowned for his accuracy and effectiveness with the new ball, Shami will play a crucial role in leading SRH’s bowling attack.

17. Ravichandran Ashwin – Chennai Super Kings (₹9.75 Crore)

Ravichandran Ashwin’s return to the Chennai Super Kings for ₹9.75 crore was one of the highlights of the auction. Ashwin, a seasoned campaigner, is expected to bring leadership, experience, and tactical nous to CSK’s spin department.

18. Rasikh Salam Dar – Royal Challengers Bangalore (₹6 Crore)

Emerging pacer Rasikh Salam Dar was picked by the Royal Challengers Bangalore for ₹6 crore. The young Jammu and Kashmir cricketer has impressed with his swing and control, and his inclusion adds variety to RCB’s bowling attack.

19. Nehal Wadhera – Punjab Kings (₹4.2 Crore)

Punjab Kings secured Nehal Wadhera for ₹4.2 crore. Known for his potential as a middle-order batter, Wadhera’s inclusion signifies Punjab’s focus on nurturing young talent for the future.

20. Abdul Samad – Lucknow Super Giants (₹4.2 Crore)

Jammu and Kashmir’s Abdul Samad was signed by the Lucknow Super Giants for ₹4.2 crore. Samad’s ability to strike big in the death overs and his utility as a part-time bowler make him an exciting prospect.

Analysis of the Auction Trends

The 2025 IPL auction highlighted a clear preference for players who offer a blend of skills and adaptability in different match situations. Teams demonstrated a willingness to invest heavily in proven performers while also taking calculated risks on emerging talents.

Focus on Bowlers: The auction witnessed high demand for bowlers, with players like Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Shami, and Mitchell Starc commanding massive deals. Franchises appear to prioritize bowlers who can execute under pressure, especially in death overs.

Rise of All-Rounders: All-rounders such as Marcus Stoinis and Venkatesh Iyer fetched hefty amounts, reflecting the growing importance of players who contribute in multiple departments. Their ability to provide balance and flexibility to the team is highly valued in the T20 format.

Youth and Emerging Talent: Franchises also invested in young players like Rasikh Salam Dar and Nehal Wadhera, indicating a strategy to build squads with an eye on the future. These players bring fresh energy and have the potential to evolve into match-winners.

The Impact of Mega Contracts

The high bids in the 2025 IPL auction underscore the league’s financial clout and its ability to attract top-tier talent from across the globe. Players with multi-crore contracts carry the dual responsibility of justifying their price tags and leading their teams to success. For the franchises, these investments are not just about individual talent but also about creating a cohesive unit capable of lifting the trophy.

As the IPL 2025 season approaches, fans are eager to see how these players live up to their billing and contribute to the drama and excitement of the world’s premier T20 league. The stage is set for another electrifying season, with the highest-paid stars ready to dazzle.