IPL history: 12 most expensive players of last 12 IPL auctions and how they performed

#9 IPL 2016 - Shane Watson (Royal Challengers Bangalore) - ₹9.5 crores

Shane Watson

Shane Watson was a key player for the Rajasthan Royals, whom he represented between 2008 and 2015.

Royal Challengers Bangalore purchased the experienced Aussie all-rounder for a fantastic ₹9.5 crores. Watson was in poor batting form and could only amass 179 runs in 16 matches at an average of 13.76 and a strike rate of 133.58. However, Watto was lethal with the ball and clinched 20 wickets an a strike rate of 16.95 and an economy rate of 8.58, finishing as the third-highest wicket-taker of the tournament.

Shane Watson currently plays for Chennai Super Kings, primarily as an opening batsman, and has been retained by CSK for ₹4 crores ahead of IPL 2020.

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#10 IPL 2017 - Ben Stokes (Rising Pune Supergiant) - ₹14.5 crores

Ben Stokes

English all-rounder Ben Stokes justified his high price tag and did well in his debut IPL season. The 28-year-old provides the X-factor for whatever team he plays for.

Stokes amassed 316 runs in 12 matches at a phenomenal strike rate of 142.98 and an average of 31.60. The match-winning 103 off 63 balls against the Gujarat Lions was undoubtedly his most memorable knock of the season.

He was also potent with the ball and made 12 scalps in as many matches at an economy rate of 7.18, returning with best figures 3/18.

Rising Pune Supergiant reached the final of IPL 2017 and Ben played a crucial role in their splendid run. They fell agonizingly short of winning the title as they lost to Mumbai Indians by 1 run in the summit clash.