The IPL 2025 mega auction held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, saw several high-profile players experiencing significant pay cuts compared to their previous contracts.
This trend highlights the shifting dynamics of player valuations in the league.
Here’s a detailed look at the top five players who faced the largest reductions in their salaries during this auction.
1. Sam Curran
- Previous Salary: ₹18.50 crore
- New Salary: ₹2.40 crore
- Pay Cut: ₹16.10 crore
Sam Curran, once the most expensive player in IPL history, faced a staggering pay cut of ₹16.10 crore.
After being acquired by Punjab Kings for a record fee in 2023, his stock fell dramatically, leading Chennai Super Kings to sign him for just ₹2.40 crore in the IPL 2025 auction.
This drastic reduction reflects concerns over his recent performances and overall impact on the game.
2. Glenn Maxwell
- Previous Salary: ₹11 crore
- New Salary: ₹4.2 crore
- Pay Cut: ₹6.8 crore
Glenn Maxwell’s return to Punjab Kings came at a significantly reduced price, with his contract slashed by ₹6.8 crore from his previous deal with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).
The Australian all-rounder’s inconsistent form contributed to this pay cut, as franchises opted for more reliable options in their squads.
3. Ishan Kishan
- Previous Salary: ₹15.25 crore
- New Salary: ₹11.25 crore
- Pay Cut: ₹4 crore
Ishan Kishan was signed by Sunrisers Hyderabad for ₹11.25 crore, marking a ₹4 crore decrease from his previous contract with Mumbai Indians.
Despite being a talented wicketkeeper-batter, Kishan’s recent struggles with form and competition for spots in the Indian team may have influenced his reduced valuation.
4. Liam Livingstone
- Previous Salary: ₹11.5 crore
- New Salary: ₹8.75 crore
- Pay Cut: ₹2.75 crore
Liam Livingstone’s move to Royal Challengers Bangalore resulted in a pay cut of ₹2.75 crore, as he was acquired for ₹8.75 crore after previously earning ₹11.5 crore with Punjab Kings.
His declining performance last season likely contributed to this adjustment in salary, despite his explosive batting capabilities.
5. Rahul Tripathi
- Previous Salary: ₹8.5 crore
- New Salary: ₹3.4 crore
- Pay Cut: ₹5.1 crore
Rahul Tripathi’s transition to Chennai Super Kings came with a significant pay cut of ₹5.1 crore, as he was signed for just ₹3.4 crore after being retained by Sunrisers Hyderabad for ₹8.5 crore previously.
With the emergence of younger talent in T20 cricket, Tripathi’s value has diminished, prompting CSK to acquire him at a lower price.