Five most expensive buys in Chennai Super Kings history

#3 MS Dhoni – $1.5 million

After leading India to victory in the inaugural World T20 in 2007, it was no surprise to see that MS Dhoni was the big winner in the first-ever IPL Auction. He was picked by the Chennai Super Kings for a then-record fee of $ 1.5 million and was one of only two players to have fetched more than $ 1 million in 2008.

While some might have thought that was expensive, two IPL titles, two Champions League T20 titles later, the number didn't seem to matter too much. He has since gone on to become the most successful captain in IPL history and established himself as one of the stars of the tournament.

From his ability to remain calm under extreme duress, finishing the innings and making the best out of the resources at his disposal, Dhoni has certainly repaid every penny that Chennai Super Kings spent on him and then some more.

Despite his massive fee, his record of being the most expensive player in IPL history didn't last for more than a season as it was smashed in the following year by his teammate.