Most expensive left-handed batters in IPL history

In the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL), several legendary batters have graced the pitch and have made a name for themselves with their remarkable performances. While the majority of the batters have been right-handers, there have also been several southpaws who’ve left an indelible mark in the league's glittering history.

From the rich Indian talent to big foreign stars, numerous left-handed batters have been sold for big bucks in the IPL. Here are the top three most expensive left-handed batters in IPL history:

3. Ishan Kishan (15.25 crore by Mumbai Indians in 2022)

Ishan Kishan had made a name for himself playing for Mumbai Indians (MI), having won back-to-back titles with them in 2019 and 2020. Hence, the franchise was hell-bent on having him back after they released him ahead of the 2022 mega auction. Mumbai shelled out a whopping INR 15.25 crore, winning a bidding war against Punjab Kings (PBKS), Gujarat Titans (GT) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). He became the second-most expensive Indian player in IPL history at the time.

2. Nicholas Pooran (16 crore by Lucknow Super Giants in 2023)

The West Indies star had made a name for himself in IPL with his belligerent batting display. When he came into the auction ahead of the 2023 season, he evidently became one of the most sought-after players among the franchises. 

Several teams showed their interest in buying Nicholas Pooran, with Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Rajasthan Royals (RR), Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) all willing to have him. However, in the end, it was Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) who hit the jackpot by acquiring his services at INR 16 crore, making Pooran the most expensive wicketkeeper batter in IPL history at the time.

1. Rishabh Pant (27 crore by Lucknow Super Giants in 2025)

When Rishabh Pant left Delhi Capitals (DC) and came in the auction, he was bound to become one of the most expensive players in the history. Expectedly, when Pant’s name came up at the auction, all the franchises went overboard in trying to have him on their roster. 

LSG was willing to break the bank to buy Pant, making a bid of INR 20.75 crore for the wicketkeeper-batter. However, DC again came into the picture, using their RTM card, but LSG was hell-bent on buying Pant and further increased the bid to INR 27 crore to seal the deal. As a result, he etched his name in the history books, becoming the most expensive player ever in the IPL.