MS Dhoni set the tone in the first auction, securing a groundbreaking Rs 9.5 crores deal with Chennai Super Kings. His leadership and batting prowess justified the record-breaking bid, laying the foundation for future headline-making deals.
Kevin Pietersen and Andrew Flintoff emerged as the costliest players in 2009, both fetching Rs 9.8 crores. The English duo brought dynamic skills to Royal Challengers Bangalore and Chennai Super Kings, marking a dual dominance in the auction.
Gautam Gambhir's left-handed brilliance saw him become the costliest player in 2011, with Kolkata Knight Riders splurging Rs 14.9 crores. His leadership proved pivotal in KKR's subsequent triumphs, making the investment worthwhile.
In 2012, Chennai Super Kings secured the services of all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja for a whopping Rs 12.8 crores. The 'Sir' added a new dimension to CSK's squad with his dynamic skills.
In 2013, Mumbai Indians made a significant investment by securing Glenn Maxwell for Rs 6.3 crores. The explosive Australian showcased his power-hitting prowess in a memorable season for MI.
Yuvraj Singh's swashbuckling performances earned him the highest bid in 2014 (Rs 14 crores, RCB) and 2015 (Rs 16 crores, DD), making him a sought-after asset in consecutive auctions.
In 2016, Shane Watson became the costliest player, securing a Rs 9.5 crores deal with Royal Challengers Bangalore. His dynamic all-round abilities made him a valuable addition to the team.
Ben Stokes dominated the auctions in 2017 (Rs 14.5 crores, RPS) and 2018 (Rs 12.5 crores, RR), showcasing his all-round prowess. The Englishman became a coveted player, fetching hefty sums in back-to-back seasons.
In 2019, Jaydev Unadkat and Varun Chakravarthy shared the honor of being the costliest players, both securing Rs 8.4 crores deals with Rajasthan Royals and Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings) respectively.
Australian speedster Pat Cummins rewrote records in 2020, securing a staggering Rs 15.5 crores deal with Kolkata Knight Riders. His pace and wicket-taking abilities justified the eye-watering bid.
Chris Morris took center stage in 2021, clinching a Rs 16.25 crores deal with Rajasthan Royals. The South African all-rounder's dynamic performances with bat and ball validated his hefty price tag.
In a surprising turn, young gun Ishan Kishan emerged as the costliest player in 2022, securing a Rs 15.25 crores deal with Mumbai Indians. The explosive wicketkeeper-batsman became the focal point of a bidding war.
The 2023 IPL auction etched a new chapter as Punjab Kings shattered records, spending an astronomical Rs 18.5 crores on England all-rounder Sam Curran. Surpassing Morris's previous mark, Curran now reigns as the costliest IPL player.