This IPL 2026 The holding window has officially closed, and the financial landscape among franchises reveals a clear picture of where teams are placing their biggest bets. With the seasoned international rising to India’s stars at international level, the list of most expensive players for each team showcases a mix of leadership picks, marquee match winners and long-term investments.
While some teams have stuck with established icons, others have given massive deals to emerging talent who are shaping the future of their rosters.
Fantastic players retained by each franchise after IPL 2026 complaint
Lucknow Super Giants – Rishabh Pants
In one of the biggest moves of the catching era, Lucknow retained the super giants Rishabh pants for a staggering ₹ 27 crore. The batsman, who continues to be one of the most influential T20 batsmen in world cricket, becomes LSG’s Premier asset. An explosive middle-order, combined with batting and leadership potential, makes him key to LSG’s future plans. The franchise is expected to rebuild its batting unit around the pan as it bats for a stronger title push.
Sunrisers Hyderabad – Heinrich Klaasen
Sunrisers Hyderabad were awarded Heinrich Klaasen Currently, after his phenomenal form in the last few seasons, he keeps it for 23 crores. Klaasen’s reputation as one of the best spin-hitters in world cricket is crucial for SRH, especially on slow Indian surfaces. His ability to change the course of a match in a matter of years makes him invaluable to the franchise. SRH will rely on him to continue playing the role of a finisher while adding stability in the middle order.
Royal Paintings Bengaluru – Virat Kohli
Loyalty and legacy continue to define royal rivals as bengaluru Virat Kohli 21 crore remains as the most expensive player. Despite the emergence of new talent, Kohli’s influence, match-winning ability and massive fan following made him the face of the franchise. His consistent running and leadership presence keep him central to RCB’s ambitions. Kohli will once again be the driving force as the team chases the Maiden IPL title.
Chennai Super Kings – Ruturaj Gaikwad & Sanju Samson
Chennai Super Kings adopted a dual-marquee approach by protecting their captain Travel Giikwad and the newly acquired wicketeeper-corpse Sanju Samson for ₹ 18 crore each. Gaikwad represents the future of CSK with his calm leadership and top-order consistency, while Samson adds explosive batting and seasoned experience. CSK’s decision is a transitional phase where the core of the team’s batting and leadership group is expected to form in the post-Dhoni era under Dhoni.
Mumbai Indians – Jasprit Bumrah
Mumbai Indians continue their tradition of appreciating and retaining world-class bowlers Jasprit Bumrah For ₹ 18 crore. The premier pacer remains the backbone of MI’s attack and arguably the most lethal bowler in T20 cricket. Death-overs make it impossible to unleash brilliance, early-hitting, and match-winning spells. Bumrah will once again lead Mi’s PACE unit in their quest to reclaim the IPL trophy.
Punjab Kings – Arshdeep Singh & Yuzvendra Chahal
The kings of Punjab believed in both bowling spear heads, kept Arshdeep Singh and Yuzvendra Chahal ₹ 18 crore apiece. ArshDeep’s left-arm pace and ability to reach under pressure made him PBS’s most reliable bowler. Chahal, the most successful spinner in IPL history, continues to take wickets in the middle overs. Together, they form one of the strongest bowling partnerships in the league.
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Rajasthan Royals – Yashasvi Jaiswal
Rajasthan Royals are locked in with retention in the future Jaishvi Jaiswal For ₹ 18 crore. The young opener has emerged as one of India’s brightest batting stars and a long-term investment for RR. His aggressive batting and fearlessness in his head make him very important to Royals’ plans. Look at RR as a future leader and centerpiece of their batting order.
Capitals of Delhi – Axar Patel
Delhi is the most expensive catchment of the capitals Akhar Patel ₹ 16.50 crore, an accurate reflection of its value as it is very highly qualified. Achar provides balance with economical left-arm spin and decent low-order batting. Also improving with his leadership qualities, DC considers him a crucial figure in their formation. Its versatility makes it indispensable in all kinds of situations.
Gujarat Titans – Jos Budler
Gujarat Titans were sleeping significantly Buttlerskeep it for 15.75 crore. Buttler’s explosiveness, experience and matchmaking credentials make him one of the most feared T20 batsmen. Looking to bolster their top-order following GT’s major departures, the bowler’s role is all the more important as they aim to rebuild a formidable batting line-up.
Kolkata Knight Riders – Rinku Singh
Kolkata Knight Riders showed a lot of faith Rinku singhkeep it for 13 crores. Rinku has been KKR’s most consistent finisher, known for his remarkable efficiency and ability to chase down impossible targets. His rise from a proper hitter to a marquee player reflects KKR’s belief in his long-term value. Rinku now stands as the franchise’s biggest holding investment.
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