The IPL 2026 auction is around the corner, and the Mumbai Indians (MI) will be eager to reinforce their squad after an eventful campaign in IPL 2025. Under the leadership of Hardik Pandya, MI’s journey was a true rollercoaster. They stumbled early, losing four of their first five matches, but bounced back brilliantly with six consecutive victories to secure a playoff berth. Their spirited turnaround saw them defeat Gujarat Titans in the Eliminator before bowing out in Qualifier 2 against a dominant Punjab Kings.
As the five-time IPL champions prepare for another intense bidding war, their focus will be on addressing a few gaps and adding depth to their pace attack and middle order. Over the years, MI have built a legacy of combining experience with young talent, making them one of the most consistent and successful franchises in IPL history. From legendary names like Sanath Jayasuriya to modern-day match-winners like Ishan Kishan and Cameron Green, MI’s auction history reflects their long-standing ambition to stay ahead of the curve.
From Rohit Sharma’s signing to Cameron Green’s mega deal – MI’s bold auction strategy
Mumbai Indians have always been fearless in the auction room, a trait that has defined their era of dominance. Their decision to rope in Rohit Sharma for INR 8.9 crore in 2011 turned out to be one of the most impactful signings in IPL history. Rohit not only became a batting mainstay but also led MI to five IPL titles, etching his name among the greatest captains in T20 cricket.
The franchise’s commitment to global excellence was evident when they went all out for Kishan in 2022, spending a staggering INR 15.25 crore, making him one of the most expensive Indian players in IPL history. Similarly, MI’s bold purchase of Green in 2023 for INR 17.50 crore reinforced their belief in investing in young, versatile all-rounders capable of winning matches single-handedly.
Even in 2025, MI made a statement by acquiring New Zealand’s left-arm pacer Trent Boult for INR 12.50 crore, bringing back a proven match-winner who had previously played a pivotal role in their 2020 title triumph.
From Jayasuriya’s explosive starts in 2008 to Boult’s wicket-taking brilliance in 2025, MI’s auction history reflects their constant quest for balance, aggression, and world-class talent.
MI’s most expensive player bought at each IPL auction
| Year | Players | Price (in INR) |
|---|---|---|
| 2008 | Sanath Jayasuriya | 4.2 crore |
| 2009 | JP Duminy | 4.6 crore |
| 2010 | Kieron Pollard | 3.45 crore |
| 2011 | Rohit Sharma | 8.9 crore |
| 2012 | Thisara Perera | 3.4 crore |
| 2013 | Glenn Maxwell | 5.4 crore |
| 2014 | Michael Hussey | 5 crore |
| 2015 | Aaron Finch | 3.2 crore |
| 2016 | Jos Buttler | 3.8 crore |
| 2017 | Karn Sharma | 3.2 crore |
| 2018 | Krunal Pandya | 8.8 crore |
| 2019 | Barinder Singh Sran | 3.4 crore |
| 2020 | Nathan Coulter-Nile | 8 crore |
| 2021 | Nathan Coulter-Nile | 5 crore |
| 2022 | Ishan Kishan | 15.25 crore |
| 2023 | Cameron Green | 17.50 crore |
| 2024 | Gerald Coetzee | 5 crore |
| 2025 | Trent Boult | 12.50 crore |
