Top 10 Most Expensive Overseas Player in IPL History (2008–2026)

The Indian Premier League has long stood as the pinnacle in franchise cricket. A platform where talent meets opportunity, as the IPL slogan itself defines it, “Yatra Pratibha Avsara Prapnotihi” (Printed on IPL Trophy). From explosive Caribbean power-hitters to fierce Australian bowlers, international players have consistently elevated the standard of competition in the IPL.

Over the years, the cash-rich league has attracted some of the best cricketers in the world. In order to acquire these top-class overseas players, franchises have to spend a lot on them. With franchises fiercely battling it out at the auction table, bidding wars have shattered records and redefined player valuations season after season.

From Andrew Symonds’ US$1.35 million deal in the inaugural season to Cameron Green’s ₹25.20 crore bid in the recent IPL auction. Australian players have consistently dominated the list of the most expensive overseas signings. However, several other international stars have also featured prominently. In this article, we will find out who is the most expensive overseas player in IPL history.

List of Most Expensive Overseas Player in IPL History (Updated)

Since its inception, the Indian Premier League has grown into the most financially dominant T20 cricket league in the world. From 2008 to 2026, the tournament has witnessed intense bidding wars, especially with overseas players. These players often get record-breaking signings for their reputation, impact, and match-winning abilities.

Franchises consistently invest heavily in proven international as well as promising rising stars to strengthen their squads. Here is the list of the most expensive foreign player in IPL history.

Who is the Most Expensive Overseas Player Sold in IPL History?

Australia’s dynamic all-rounder Cameron Green holds the record as the most expensive player sold in IPL history (Overseas). He is signed by the three-time title holders, Kolkata Knight Riders, for a staggering ₹25.20 crore in the 2026 mini-auction, surpassing all previous overseas bids. The massive contract reflects his world-class pedigree and proven ability to deliver on the biggest stages, under immense pressure.

10. Jos Buttler | Gujarat Titans | ₹15.75 crore

English wicket-keeper batter, Jos Buttler is one of the most attacking top-order batters in the limited-overs format. Over the years, he has been around various IPL franchises, asserting his dominance in the league. In the 2025 IPL auction, Jos Buttler acquired a total of ₹15.75 crore from the 2022 title holders, Gujarat Titans, after an intense bidding war between various teams.

9. Nicholas Pooran | Lucknow Super Giants | ₹16 crore

Caribbean powerhouse Nicholas Pooran became one of the most talked-about buys in the IPL 2023 auction when Lucknow Super Giants secured him for a staggering ₹16 crore. He is known for his explosive hitting and ability to change games in a few overs. His presence not only strengthens the team’s batting depth but also adds valuable experience of wicket-keeping, making him a crucial asset for Lucknow.

8. Chris Morris | Rajasthan Royals | ₹16.25 crore

South African bowling all-rounder Chris Morris has long been regarded as one of the most impactful all-rounders in T20 cricket, and his IPL journey reflects his immense value. During the IPL 2021 auction, Rajasthan Royals snapped him up for a massive ₹16.25 crore, highlighting his reputation as a game-changer and a premium asset for any franchise.

7. Ben Stokes | Chennai Super Kings | ₹16.25 crore

One of modern cricket’s finest all-rounders, Ben Stokes combines explosive batting, clever bowling, and exceptional fielding across formats. His ability to influence games in every department makes him a highly demanding player in franchise cricket. Chennai Super Kings secured Stokes for a whopping ₹16.25 crore during the 2023 auction, making him one of the most expensive foreign player in IPL history at that time.

6. Matheesha Pathirana | Kolkata Knight Riders | ₹18 crore

Sri Lanka’s prolific fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana has made a name in T20 cricket with his unorthodox slingy action, similar to Lasith Malinga, and deadly precision in the death overs. His ability to deliver under pressure makes him a game-changing asset for any franchise. After gaining valuable experience with the Chennai Super Kings, Pathirana is ready for upcoming high-stakes situations. In the 2026 IPL auction, Kolkata Knight Riders secured him for a record ₹18 crore, making him one of the most expensive players in IPL history.

5. Sam Curran | Punjab Kings | ₹18.50 crore

One of the youngest and most talented all-rounders in world cricket, Sam Curran has established himself as one of the most consistent players in the Indian Premier League. Over the years, he has played pivotal roles for several top franchises, delivering match-winning performances with both departments. In the 2023 IPL auction, Punjab Kings acquired Curran for a record ₹18.50 crore, which shows how good a utility player he is.

4. Pat Cummins | Sunrisers Hyderabad | ₹20.50 crore

Aussie skipper, Pat Cummins, is known for his sharp cricketing brain and leadership skills under adverse situations. He has guided Sunrisers Hyderabad to the finals and playoff stages with remarkable consistency. With a record bid of ₹20.50 crore, Sunrisers Hyderabad reinforced Cummins’ stature as one of the standout performers in the league.

3. Heinrich Klaasen | Sunrisers Hyderabad | ₹23 crore

One of the most explosive batters in the cricketing world, Heinrich Klaasen is renowned not only for his aggressive batting but also as one of the best wicket-keepers in IPL. Klaasen has retired from international cricket to focus entirely on franchise leagues worldwide. Sunrisers Hyderabad retained him for a record ₹23 crore in 2025, cementing his place among the most expensive overseas player in IPL.

2. Mitchell Starc | Kolkata Knight Rider | ₹24.75 Crore

During the 2024 IPL auction, Mitchell Starc etched his name in the record books with a contract worth ₹24.75 crore, making him the most expensive overseas player in IPL history (among bowlers). He went on to play a key role in taking KKR to their 3rd IPL title. Widely regarded as one of the greatest left-arm fast bowlers of the modern era, Starc has consistently played well. Over the years, his lethal pace, sharp swing, and ability to deliver in crucial moments have made him one of the most feared pacers in world cricket.

1. Cameron Green | Kolkata Knight Riders | ₹25.20 Crore

At just 26, Cameron Green has already carved out a reputation as one of the most exciting all-rounders in modern T20 cricket. Despite having featured in multiple IPL seasons, his value peaked in the 2026 auction, where he created a milestone by becoming the most expensive player sold in IPL history (overseas). The all-rounder received an astonishing bid of ₹25.20 crore from KKR.

Green’s aggressive stroke play and the ability to contribute with the ball makes him an integral part of any team in the shortest format. Some of his best performances have come over the last few seasons, where he has delivered impactful performances under pressure. The question remains whether he can justify the record-breaking price tag and elevate his franchise to championship glory.