ipl 2026 The retention window has officially closed, and the financial landscape of the franchises paints a clear picture of where teams have placed their biggest bets. From experienced international players to rising Indian stars, the list of most expensive players for each team reflects a mix of leadership choices, marquee match winners and long-term investments.
While some teams have stuck with their established icons, others have handed out massive deals to emerging talents who are shaping their team’s future.
Most expensive players retained by each franchise after IPL 2026 retention
Lucknow Super Giants-Rishabh Pant
In one of the biggest moves of the retention cycle, Lucknow Super Giants retained Rishabh Pant For a staggering ₹27 crore. Pant, who remains one of the most influential T20 batsmen in world cricket, has become a key asset for LSG. His explosive middle-order batting, coupled with his wicket-keeping and leadership abilities, make him central to LSG’s future plans. The franchise is expected to rebuild its batting unit around Pant as they aim for a strong title push.
Sunrisers Hyderabad – Heinrich Klaasen
Sunrisers Hyderabad gave reward heinrich classen Following his excellent form in the last few seasons, he was retained for ₹23 crore. Klaasen’s reputation as one of the best spin-hitters in world cricket has been vital for SRH, especially on slow Indian surfaces. His ability to change the course of a match in just a few overs makes him indispensable to the franchise. SRH will rely on him to continue playing the role of finisher while adding stability to the middle order.
Royal Challengers Bangalore – Virat Kohli
Loyalty and legacy continue to define Royal Challengers Bangalore Virat Kohli He remains their most expensive player with ₹21 crore. Despite the emergence of new talent, Kohli’s influence, match-winning ability and massive fan following make him the face of the franchise. His consistent run-scoring and leadership presence puts him at the center of RCB’s ambitions. As the team chases its first IPL title, Kohli will once again be their driving force.
Chennai Super Kings – Ruturaj Gaikwad and Sanju Samson
Chennai Super Kings has adopted a dual approach by retaining the captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and newly acquired wicketkeeper-batsman sanju samson ₹18 crore each. Gaikwad represents the future of CSK with his calm leadership and top-order consistency, while Samson adds explosive batting and veteran experience. CSK’s decision signals a transition phase where the pair is expected to form the core of the team’s batting and leadership group in the post-Dhoni era.
Mumbai Indians-Jasprit Bumrah
Mumbai Indians continues its tradition of valuing, retaining world-class bowlers Jasprit Bumrah For ₹18 crore. The premier pace bowler remains the backbone of MI’s attack and is arguably the most lethal bowler in T20 cricket. His death overs talent, ability to strike early and deliver match-winning spells make him impossible to release. Bumrah will once again lead MI’s pace unit in their bid to regain the IPL trophy.
Punjab Kings – Arshdeep Singh and Yuzvendra Chahal
Punjab Kings expressed equal confidence in both their bowling leaders by retaining them. Arshdeep Singh And Yuzvendra Chahal For ₹18 crore each. Arshdeep’s left-arm pace and ability to perform well under pressure has made him PBKS’s most reliable bowler. Chahal, one of the most successful spinners in IPL history, has been consistent in taking wickets in the middle overs. Together, they form one of the most powerful bowling partnerships in the league.
Also read: Venkatesh Iyer reveals his all-time T20 playing XI ahead of IPL 2026; No place for Virat Kohli
Rajasthan Royals – Yashasvi Jaiswal
Rajasthan Royals have decided their future by retaining Yashasvi 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 stroke play and fearlessness at the top makes him vital to the Royals’ plans. RR see Jaiswal as a future leader and the centerpiece of their batting lineup.
Delhi Capitals- Axar Patel
Delhi Capitals has the most expensive retainer Akshar Patel At ₹16.50 crore, a clear reflection of his value as a multi-skilled all-rounder. Akshar provides balance with his economical left-arm spin and easy lower-order batting. Due to his leadership qualities also improving, the DC considers him an important person in their setup. Their versatility makes them indispensable in all situations.
Gujarat Titans – Jos Buttler
Gujarat Titans have invested a lot jos buttlerRetained him for ₹15.75 crore. Buttler’s explosiveness, experience and match-winning ability make him one of the most dangerous T20 batsmen. With GT looking to strengthen their top order following the dismissal of key players, Buttler’s role becomes even more important as they aim to rebuild a strong batting unit.
Kolkata Knight Riders – Rinku Singh
Kolkata Knight Riders have shown tremendous confidence Rinku SinghRetained him for ₹13 crore. Rinku has been KKR’s most consistent finisher, known for his remarkable patience and ability to chase down impossible targets. His rise from a reliable hitter to a marquee player reflects KKR’s confidence in his long-term value. Rinku now stands as the biggest investment of the franchise.
Also read: Mohammad Kaif picks two bowlers whom CSK can target in IPL 2026 mini auction
