IPL's Most Expensive Players: Pant Tops List as 2026 Auction Nears

• IPL 2026 mini auction is scheduled for December 16, 2025, in Abu Dhabi, with 1355 players registered.
• Rishabh Pant became the most expensive player in IPL history in 2025, acquired by LSG for Rs. 27 crores.
• The article details the progression of the most expensive players each season since the IPL's inception in 2008.
• MS Dhoni was the most expensive in the inaugural 2008 season at Rs. 9.5 crores for CSK.
• Recent record breakers include Mitchell Starc (Rs. 24.75 crore, KKR, 2024) and Sam Curran (Rs. 18.5 crore, 2023).

Why It Matters: IPL player values are skyrocketing, driven by immense financial growth and competitive nature.