The Rajasthan Royals won the inaugural IPL 2008 under Shane Warne's leadership, featuring crucial performances from Sohail Tanvir, Yusuf Pathan, and Albie Morkel. Since that historic triumph, the Jaipur-based franchise has experienced mixed results, reaching the finals as runners-up in IPL 2022 and qualifying for playoffs on several occasions, while other seasons ended in the group stage. The team did not compete in 2016 and 2017 due to suspension. Throughout their journey, RR has featured prominent players like Rahul Dravid, Ben Stokes, and current captain Sanju Samson. Despite lacking consistent marquee signings, the franchise has surprised fans with tactical brilliance and fearless cricket. In the IPL 2025 auction, they made headlines by signing 13-year-old prodigy Vaibhav Suryavanshi. Their auction history reveals varying investment strategies, with their most expensive signings ranging from Mohammad Kaif in 2008 to Jofra Archer in 2025.
Most Expensive Players Across IPL Auctions
Over the years, Rajasthan Royals have invested significantly in various players during IPL auctions. Their costliest pick was Chris Morris at 16.25 crore in 2021. Other notable expensive signings include Ben Stokes at 12.5 crore in 2018 and Jofra Archer at 12.5 crore in 2025. Earlier auctions saw Mohammad Kaif as the priciest at 2.5 crore in 2008, while Tyron Henderson fetched 6.5 crore in 2009. Players like Johan Botha, Steven Smith, James Faulkner, and Prasidh Krishna were acquired for amounts between 4 to 10 crore across different seasons. These figures represent only auction purchases, excluding retained or traded players. Auction prices from 2008 to 2013 were originally in USD and converted to INR using average exchange rates.
Source: Link