IPL: Top five most expensive uncapped Indian players in history

Uncapped players are the backbone of the team.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) is known for transforming the lives of many cricketers. The IPL auction stage has often witnessed relatively unknown names turning into overnight sensations.

While overseas stars and established Indian players usually attract the highest bids, franchises have increasingly shown faith in uncapped domestic talent over the years. With only four overseas players allowed in a playing XI, many teams invest heavily in domestic players to build a strong Indian core.

Several uncapped players have fetched massive prices, reflecting a clear shift in franchise strategy, from reputation to potential. The IPL 2026 auction was a perfect example of this trend, as multiple uncapped players shattered records and grabbed headlines.

Although Australian all-rounder Cameron Green was the highest earner, being bought by KKR for ₹25.20 crore, it was the uncapped Indian players who truly stole the spotlight and became the talk of the tournament.

On that note, let’s take a look at the top five most expensive uncapped players of all time.

5. Shahrukh Khan – 9 crore (PBKS)

Shahrukh Khan was bought by the Punjab Kings for ₹9 crore in the 2022 auction. The Tamil Nadu finisher was on the radar of several teams and attracted strong bidding interest.

He had already represented PBKS in the 2021 season, where he showcased his potential as a powerful lower-order batter, and that was likely the reason the franchise was keen to bring him back.

Known for his strength and ability to clear the boundary with ease, Shahrukh was seen as a long-term investment who could finish games under pressure.

4. Krishnappa Gowtham – 9.25 crore (CSK)

CSK shocked everyone by acquiring Krishnappa Gowtham for a hefty ₹9.25 crore in the 2021 auction. At the time, Gowtham was regarded as one of the most promising uncapped all-rounders in domestic cricket, known for his power-hitting ability in the lower order and his useful off-spin bowling.

His performances in the domestic circuit and previous IPL appearances had highlighted his potential as a game-changer, which led to an intense bidding war among franchises.

However, despite the high expectations, Gowtham was not given many opportunities that season. In the limited chances he did receive, he struggled to make a significant impact and failed to justify his price tag.

3. Avesh Khan – 10 crore (LSG)

Lucknow Super Giants made a bold move during the 2022 mega auction by buying Avesh Khan for ₹10 crore, making him the most expensive uncapped player in IPL history at that time.

Avesh had represented Delhi Capitals in the 2021 season, where he enjoyed a breakthrough campaign, picking up 24 wickets at an impressive economy rate of just 7.37.

Despite his outstanding performances, he was not retained by DC, and LSG saw this as a golden opportunity to add a proven Indian fast bowler to their squad.

2. Kartik Sharma – 14.2 crore (CSK)

CSK broke their piggy bank for uncapped players in the IPL 2026 auction, investing heavily in young domestic talent, which clearly indicated that the franchise is going through a transition phase.

One of their biggest buys was Kartik Sharma, whom they signed for a massive ₹14.2 crore after outbidding KKR and SRH. The wicketkeeper-batter from Rajasthan has enjoyed an explosive domestic season and delivered strong performances across formats.

His ability to finish games and keep wickets made him a highly sought-after prospect, and this is likely why CSK showed immense faith in him. The aggressive bidding eventually paid off, as Kartik became the joint most expensive uncapped player in IPL auction history.

1. Prashant Veer – 14.2 crore (CSK)

Sharing the top spot with Kartik Sharma is Prashant Veer. The Uttar Pradesh all-rounder was bought by CSK for a massive ₹14.2 crore, making him the joint-most expensive uncapped player in IPL history at the time.

Veer’s ability to bowl left-arm spin, along with his capability to contribute as a middle-order batter, gives him an added edge, and CSK viewed him as a long-term investment.

With Ravindra Jadeja having been traded to the Rajasthan Royals, Prashant Veer is seen as a player who could step into that role and shoulder similar responsibilities, filling some big boots in the CSK setup.

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