The IPL has always been a stage where fortunes can change dramatically, both in terms of performance and finances. The IPL 2025 mega auction, held in Jeddah, brought forth some surprising outcomes, particularly in how it recalibrated player salaries. This auction was a clear indicator of the league’s dynamic market where player valuations can plummet as swiftly as they rise. Here, we delve into the stories of players who faced the most substantial pay cuts, offering insight into the reasons behind these shifts and what they might mean for their careers and the teams they now represent.
Sameer Rizvi was one of the IPL’s emerging stars, having been acquired by Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for Rs 8.4 crore in 2024. However, his performance did not justify the investment, leading to a dramatic reduction to Rs 95 lakhs in 2025 with Delhi Capitals. This 89% pay cut underscores the IPL’s demand for immediate impact and the pressure on young players to perform from day one.
Sam Curran, once the IPL’s most expensive player in 2023, saw his price tag from Punjab Kings drop from Rs 18.5 crore to Rs 2.5 crore with Chennai Super Kings in 2025. This 86% cut reflects a reassessment of his value after a season where his all-round contributions were not as impactful as hoped. Curran’s case is a vivid example of how past accolades can quickly fade in the IPL’s memory if not backed by consistent performance.
Glenn Maxwell, known for his explosive batting, faced a significant reduction from Rs 11 crore with Royal Challengers Bangalore to Rs 4.2 crore with Punjab Kings. This 62% decrease speaks to the IPL’s shift towards investing in players who can offer both reliability and versatility, particularly when Maxwell’s performances were inconsistent.
Washington Sundar experienced a 66% pay cut, moving from Rs 8.75 crore with Sunrisers Hyderabad to Rs 3 crore in 2025. His journey reflects the challenges of maintaining one’s market value amidst injuries and fluctuating form, highlighting the IPL’s preference for players who can guarantee availability and performance.
Mitchell Starc, who was the highest-paid player in IPL history in 2024 at Rs 24.75 crore, saw his salary halved to Rs 11.75 crore with a move to Delhi Capitals. His pay cut by 53% is a testament to the IPL’s cautious approach towards players with injury histories, even if they are proven match-winners.
Quinton de Kock, known for his aggressive opening batting, saw his salary decrease from Rs 6.75 crore to Rs 3.6 crore, moving from Lucknow Super Giants to an unspecified team. This 47% reduction illustrates how teams are now balancing between experience and emerging talent, often opting for the latter when budget constraints come into play.
These pay cuts in the IPL 2025 auction highlight the league’s cutthroat nature, where performance, form, and even luck play significant roles in determining a player’s worth. For these players, it’s a moment to reflect, adapt, and come back stronger, showcasing the resilience needed in professional cricket. The IPL continues to be a place where careers can be redefined, with each auction serving as a reminder of the relentless pursuit of excellence and the ever-changing dynamics of cricket’s financial landscape.
