The Kolkata Knight Riders have always been one of the biggest spenders in the IPL auction, trying to get high-impact players in their bid to increase their winning chances. KKR’s strategy over the years has been all about getting the best players from around the world and India, which has been a reason for making headlines in the auction every season.
Early Years: Building the Core with Icons
KKR eyed franchise icons such as Sourav Ganguly and Shane Bond, having Ganguly captain the side in 2008 and Bond bowl fast in 2010. After the big buy in the 2011 auction of Gautam Gambhir for ₹11.04 crore, which transformed KKR into a champion team and he led the team to two IPL titles. Big buys such as Brendon McCullum, Jacques Kallis, and Mitchell Starc were made in the ensuing seasons, allowing the squad to breathe in with international class.
The 2020s: Record-Breaking Spending Era
As KKR moved into the 2020s, they made a splash in the market with over-the-top, record-breaking bids for Pat Cummins, who, for ₹15.5 crore, was acquired not once but twice, setting a new standard for fast bowlers. Mitchell Starc in 2024 at ₹24.75 crore became the new high point, and Venkatesh Iyer in 2025 at ₹23.75 crore was a clear indication of his rise as a star in all formats.
A Legacy of Big Buys and Bold Strategy
KKR’s spending on players season-wise illustrates a history of extravagant squad building, mixing foreign match-winners with Indian stars and ranking among the highest in IPL history in terms of spending.
DISCLAIMER- This is for educational and informational purposes only. This information is sourced from various authentic sources.
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