Money spent at each IPL auction since 2008

Since the 2008 founding of the Indian Premier League, its franchises have spent sums of money that would make most mortals weep, all for the sake of assembling star-studded teams. At the very first auction, teams collectively spent a cool USD 36.43 million on behalf of their respective teams, and what followed was nothing short of a spending extravaganza in subsequent years.

The money spent at each IPL auction has increased significantly with time, drawing the reflection of the league’s increasing popularity and commercial success. Last year’s auction was one such instance of a record INR 230.45 crore spent by the 10 participating teams. It is one of the highest overall spends by franchises in IPL to buy marquee players.

One notable instance during this IPL auction was Mitchell Starc. He broke all records with INR 24.75 crore from the Kolkata Knight Riders. His acquisition showcases the extent to which the IPL teams will go to ensure they break the bank for someone with international credibility.

IPL 2022 auction was the most expensive in league’s history

The IPL 2022 mega auction was the most expensive ever held in the history of the tournament. The teams spent a whopping INR 551.70 crore. All eyes are now on the forthcoming IPL 2025 mega auction. It is set to be held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on November 24 and 25. It remains to see whether the spending record will be broken again by fans and analysts alike.

Among the teams, Punjab Kings enters the IPL 2025 auction with the largest remaining purse of INR 110.50 crore. It means they have a lot of buying power. The Rajasthan Royals have the smallest purse, at INR 41 crore, which could confine their strategy.

The league has consistently modified its salary cap to accommodate the increasing financial stakes. It has increased the total auction purse for the next season to INR 120 crore per team. It also comprises match fees alongside the auction budget and performance bonuses.

Such is the staggering money spent at each IPL auction that highlights not just the league’s growth, but the role it has for cricket. The cash-rich league transforms itself into a commercial powerhouse. And with fans awaiting the IPL 2025 mega auction, the stage seems set yet again for something record-breaking. Will the numbers soar to new heights? Only time will tell.

Money spent at each IPL auction from 2008 to 2024

Also, see: Thomas Draca becomes first Italian to register for an IPL auction