In the Indian Premier League (IPL) auctions, where cricketing titans clash to secure the finest talents, the saga of the most expensive foreign players unfolds with each passing edition. Join us as we look into the riveting history of IPL auctions, spotlighting the foreign cricketing sensations who commanded staggering price tags.
List Of Most Expensive Foreign Players In Each IPL Auction From 2008 To 2023:
Andrew Symonds: Setting the Bar in 2008
In the inaugural IPL auction in 2008, the dynamic Australian all-rounder Andrew Symonds emerged as the headline-grabber. Representing the Deccan Chargers, Symonds fetched a jaw-dropping $1.35 million, setting the benchmark for foreign players in the league.
Flintoff, Pietersen, and the 2009 Showdown
The following year witnessed a double spectacle as England’s Andrew Flintoff and South Africa’s Kevin Pietersen commanded the spotlight in 2009. Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore secured their services for a combined sum of $1.55 million.
Bond, Pollard, and the Thrilling 2010 Auction
In 2010, the auction frenzy reached new heights with the likes of Shane Bond and Kieron Pollard. Kolkata Knight Riders and Mumbai Indians engaged in a bidding war, with Pollard finally securing a deal at $750,000.
Mahela Jayawardene’s Million-Dollar Journey
Sri Lankan maestro Mahela Jayawardene became a sought-after commodity, gracing the auctions in 2011 and 2012. Kochi Tuskers Kerala and Delhi Daredevils invested substantially, with Jayawardene fetching $1.4 million and a staggering $2 million in consecutive years.
Glenn Maxwell’s Million-Dollar Entry in 2013
In 2013, the Australian powerhouse Glenn Maxwell made waves as Mumbai Indians secured his services for a whopping $1 million. Maxwell’s explosive batting and all-around prowess justified the hefty price tag.
Pietersen, Mathews, and Watson: 2014 to 2016
Delhi Daredevils continued their pursuit of top-tier talent with Kevin Pietersen commanding ₹9 crore in 2014, followed by Angelo Mathews at ₹7.5 crore in 2015. The trend continued with Shane Watson donning the Royal Challengers Bangalore jersey for ₹9.5 crore in 2016.
Ben Stokes: The Rising Star of 2017 and 2018
England’s dynamic all-rounder Ben Stokes became the talk of the town in 2017 when Rising Pune Supergiant secured him for a staggering ₹14.5 crore. The following year, Rajasthan Royals continued the saga, acquiring Stokes for ₹12.5 crore.
Curran, Cummins, and Morris: 2019 to 2021
The subsequent auctions witnessed the emergence of new stars. In 2019, Sam Curran joined Kings XI Punjab for ₹7.2 crore, while Pat Cummins became the costliest overseas buy in 2020, donning the Kolkata Knight Riders jersey for ₹15.5 crore. In 2021, Chris Morris shattered records, securing a mind-boggling deal with Rajasthan Royals at ₹16.25 crore.
Livingstone and the Unprecedented ₹18.5 Crore Deal in 2022
Punjab Kings made headlines in 2022 by securing the services of Liam Livingstone for a staggering ₹11.5 crore. The English cricketer’s exceptional skills and explosive performances justified the hefty price tag.
Sam Curran’s Soaring Value in 2023
As the IPL auction unfolded in 2023, Sam Curran once again dominated headlines, securing a groundbreaking deal with Punjab Kings for a staggering ₹18.5 crore. His consistent performances and versatile skills catapulted him to the upper echelons of IPL bidding wars.
