Record-Breaking Bids That Changed the IPL Auction Game: The Indian Premier League (IPL) has always been known for its high-intensity cricket, but the auction table often produces drama that matches the action on the field. Over the years, several overseas stars have attracted massive bids, proving their value not just as players but as match-winners and long-term investments.
With the IPL 2026 Mini Auction, new names have entered the elite list. Cameron Green’s ₹25.20 crore move and Matheesha Pathirana’s ₹18 crore signing have reshaped the rankings of the most expensive overseas players in IPL history.
Let’s take a detailed look at the Top 5 Most Expensive Overseas Players in IPL History, based on confirmed auction prices.
Top 5 Most Expensive Overseas Players in IPL History
| Rank | Player Name | Team | IPL Season | Price (₹ Crore) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cameron Green | KKR | IPL 2026 Mini Auction | 25.20 |
| 2 | Mitchell Starc | KKR | IPL 2024 | 24.75 |
| 3 | Pat Cummins | SRH | IPL 2024 | 20.50 |
| 4 | Sam Curran | PBKS | IPL 2023 | 18.50 |
| 5 | Matheesha Pathirana | KKR | IPL 2026 Mini Auction | 18.00 |
Cameron Green Becomes the Costliest Overseas Buy in IPL History
Cameron Green – ₹25.20 Crore (KKR, IPL 2026 Mini Auction)
Australian all-rounder Cameron Green created history when KKR bought him for ₹25.20 crore in the IPL 2026 mini auction, making him the most expensive overseas player ever in IPL auctions.
- Powerful middle-order batting
- Ability to bowl fast seam
- Strong fielding and athleticism
After stints with Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Green’s move to KKR signals a long-term plan to build around a premium overseas all-rounder.
See Also:- Most Expensive Player in Each IPL Auction
Mitchell Starc – The Man Who Delivered Titles
Mitchell Starc – ₹24.75 Crore (KKR, IPL 2024)
Before Green, Mitchell Starc held the overseas record. KKR invested ₹24.75 crore in the Australian left-arm pacer ahead of IPL 2024.
- Match-winning spells in the playoffs
- Crucial performances in the final
- Played a key role in KKR lifting the IPL title
Pat Cummins – Leadership Comes at a Premium
Pat Cummins – ₹20.50 Crore (SRH, IPL 2024)
Australian captain Pat Cummins crossed the ₹20 crore mark when Sunrisers Hyderabad secured him for ₹20.50 crore.
- Proven international captain
- Calm leader under pressure
- Useful lower-order batter
Sam Curran – World Cup Hero Turned IPL Gold
Sam Curran – ₹18.50 Crore (PBKS, IPL 2023)
England all-rounder Sam Curran became a massive auction draw after his global tournament heroics. Punjab Kings signed him for ₹18.50 crore.
Matheesha Pathirana – Death-Over Specialist Joins the Elite List
Matheesha Pathirana – ₹18.00 Crore (KKR, IPL 2026 Mini Auction)
Sri Lankan fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana became one of the biggest highlights of the IPL 2026 mini auction when Kolkata Knight Riders secured him for ₹18 crore.
- Exceptional yorkers in death overs
- High pace with slingy action
- Match-winning impact in T20 cricket
KKR’s heavy investment in Pathirana underlines their focus on strengthening the bowling attack for pressure situations.
Final Thoughts
The IPL auction has evolved into a high-stakes battlefield where overseas stars are valued as game-changers. With Cameron Green and Matheesha Pathirana headlining IPL 2026, the league’s financial and competitive intensity continues to rise.
