With the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction around the corner, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), the reigning champions, are ready to make bold moves. KKR has a history of daring purchases that have shaped the team’s fortunes over the years. Here is a look at their top five most expensive acquisitions in auction history.
1. Mitchell Starc – ₹24.75 crore (2024)
Mitchell Starc became not only the most expensive buy for KKR but also the costliest player in IPL history during the 2024 auction, being purchased for ₹24.75 crore. However, the Australian fast bowler faced challenges throughout the season, struggling to find his form and failing to make a significant impact on the team’s performance.
2. Pat Cummins – ₹15.5 crore (2020)
Another high-profile Australian, Pat Cummins, was bought by KKR for ₹15.5 crore in the 2020 auction. Cummins had a decent run that season, picking up 12 wickets in 14 matches. Interestingly, in the 2024 auction, Sunrisers Hyderabad acquired him, making him the second-highest paid player in IPL history.
3. Gautam Gambhir – ₹11.04 crore (2011)
A key figure in KKR’s history, Gautam Gambhir was picked up for ₹11.04 crore in 2011. Gambhir’s influence was monumental, leading KKR to their maiden IPL title. His role didn’t end there; as a mentor for KKR in 2024, Gambhir guided the team to another championship victory before moving on to coach the Indian national team.
4. Yusuf Pathan – ₹9.66 crore (2011)
Yusuf Pathan, known for his explosive batting and handy bowling, was purchased for ₹9.66 crore in 2011. Pathan proved to be a match-winner for KKR, contributing to their victorious campaigns in both 2012 and 2014, cementing his place as one of the franchise’s key players.
5. Chris Lynn – ₹9.6 crore (2018)
KKR secured the services of Chris Lynn for ₹9.6 crore in the 2018 auction. Lynn brought significant value to the team with his power-hitting, amassing 1,274 runs at an average of 34.43 and a strike rate of 141.40 over 40 matches. He quickly became one of the standout players for the team during his tenure.
These significant purchases have played a crucial role in shaping KKR’s journey and success in the IPL. As the mega auction approaches, KKR will once again look to make strategic decisions to maintain their championship-winning form.