IPL Auction: PBKS’ most expensive player in each IPL season

Despite being one of the lower-bid franchises, PBKS have remained a competitive side throughout the years, though consistent success has often eluded them. The team underwent a rebranding in 2021, changing their name from Kings XI Punjab to Punjab Kings, and have reached two IPL finals, in 2014 and 2025, unfortunately losing on both occasions.

The franchise had a bright start in the inaugural IPL season, showcasing promising talent and aggressive gameplay. They had trouble in 2010 where they were on the verge of expulsion, but reinstated close to the auction period. Despite their return, PBKS struggled to form a stable core and endured a few underwhelming seasons.

In 2014, under the guidance of coach Sanjay Bangar and the leadership of George Bailey, Punjab enjoyed a breakout season, topping the league table and narrowly losing the final to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). However, they couldn’t maintain that momentum in subsequent years, frequently undergoing leadership and squad changes.

Throughout the 2020s, PBKS built one of the strongest batting line-ups in the tournament but were hampered by instability, including multiple captaincy shifts. The franchise’s fortunes took a positive turn in 2025 when Ricky Ponting was appointed head coach and Shreyas Iyer took over the captaincy, leading the team to their first IPL final in 11 years.

While PBKS have yet to lift the IPL trophy, their auction strategies have often made headlines, with bold, high-value signings and surprise picks showcasing their ambition to finally turn potential into championship success.

Here is the complete table of Punjab Kings’ most expensive players in each IPL auction season