Venkatesh Iyer Becomes Fourth Most Expensive Player in IPL History, Secured by KKR for ₹23.75 Crore

The IPL 2025 mega-auction delivered dramatic moments, with franchises fiercely competing to secure top players. Among the highlights was Venkatesh Iyer’s record-breaking bid, making him the fourth most expensive player in IPL history. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) won the bidding war against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), securing Iyer for a jaw-dropping ₹23.75 crore.

Iyer, a versatile all-rounder, has made his mark in both domestic and international cricket. With 1,326 runs in 50 IPL matches, averaging over 31, including a century and 11 fifties, he is also a reliable pace bowler. His acquisition marks a strategic move for KKR as they bolster their lineup for the upcoming season.

Legendary Indian all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin is set to return to Chennai Super Kings (CSK), who secured his services for ₹9.75 crore. With 764 wickets in 286 matches across all formats for India, Ashwin’s experience and skill remain invaluable. In the IPL, he has been a force with 800 runs and 180 wickets in 212 matches, contributing to CSK’s multiple title victories.

Punjab Kings made a strong statement by acquiring Marcus Stoinis for ₹11 crore and Glenn Maxwell for ₹4.2 crore. Stoinis, a dependable all-rounder, has amassed 1,245 runs in 74 T20Is at an average of 31.92, alongside 45 wickets. Maxwell, known for his explosive batting, has 2,664 T20I runs at an average of almost 30 and a strike rate nearing 155.

SunRisers Hyderabad picked up Harshal Patel for ₹8 crore. The 2021 Purple Cap winner with 32 wickets, Patel has taken 135 wickets in 106 IPL matches, making him a valuable addition to their bowling attack.

Meanwhile, Australian all-rounder Mitchell Marsh joined Lucknow Super Giants for ₹3.4 crore. Marsh, who leads Australia in T20Is, has scored 1,629 runs and taken 17 wickets in 65 T20Is. His IPL career includes 666 runs and 37 wickets in 42 matches.

New Zealand’s Rachin Ravindra also returned to CSK for ₹4 crore. The promising all-rounder impressed in his debut IPL season, scoring 222 runs at a strike rate of almost 161 in 10 matches. With his ability to contribute with both bat and ball, Ravindra adds depth to the already formidable CSK squad.