5 most successful low-budget signings in IPL history

The Indian Premier League (IPL) mini-auction is set to take place on December 16 in Abu Dhabi, with several surprising names expected to fetch big bids while others may go unsold, leaving both experts and fans stunned.

Over the years, the IPL has witnessed numerous instances where relatively unknown or overlooked players were signed for minimal amounts but went on to deliver remarkable performances. These bargain buys not only strengthened their respective teams but also proved that talent often outweighs price tags. Here let us have a look at the five most successful low-budget signings in IPL history.

Here are top 5 most successful low-budget signings in IPL history

5. Shashank Singh

Shashank Singh is one of the finest modern examples of a low-budget signing turning into gold. Punjab Kings (PBKS) acquired him for just INR 20 lakh during the IPL 2024 mini-auction. What followed was a breakout season where he scored 354 runs in 14 matches at an impressive average of 44.25.

His ability to anchor innings and accelerate towards the end made him invaluable. PBKS retained him for IPL 2025, and he delivered yet again with 350 runs in 14 innings at an average of 50.00. His consistency and temperament made him one of the greatest steal deals in recent IPL history. He currently also acts as the vice-captain for the franchise, showing tremendous rise as a part of the Punjab-based side.

4. Shane Watson

Australian all-rounder Shane Watson remains one of the greatest low-budget signings ever. Picked up by Rajasthan Royals (RR) for INR 50 lakh in the inaugural IPL 2008 season, Watson produced a legendary campaign. He scored 472 runs in 15 matches and claimed 17 wickets, winning the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award.

Watson continued to shine in later seasons for RR, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), and Chennai Super Kings (CSK), but his 2008 heroics remain unforgettable. His impact remains one of the best returns on a budget signing.

3. Nitish Kumar Reddy

Young all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy was signed by Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) for INR 20 lakh ahead of IPL 2024, and he repaid the faith with a breakthrough season. The 22-year-old hammered 303 runs in 11 innings at a strike rate of 142.92, showcasing maturity beyond his age.

The Andhra-born all-rounder also contributed with the ball, picking up three wickets. His all-round show was integral to SRH’s journey to the 2024 final, where they finished as runners-up. The youngsters is one of the top inclusions currently, and will be hoping to live up to his reputation in the upcoming season as well.

2. Venkatesh Iyer

Venkatesh Iyer was another rising star picked up at a budget price of INR 20 lakh by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) during the IPL 2021 auction. The Indore-born immediately made an impact, scoring 370 runs in just 10 games at an average of 41.11.

The star all-rounder’s fearless stroke play and finishing ability made him a core part of KKR’s plans. His meteoric rise resulted in him being sold for a massive INR 23.75 crore in the IPL 2025 mega-auction. In 2025, he was also made the vice-captain of the side, and the deputy to Ajinkya Rahane. However, after a poor showing across the season, he was released.

1. Chris Gayle

West Indies powerhouse Chris Gayle was a budget signing for RCB in IPL 2011, joining as a replacement of the injured Dirk Nannes for just INR 30 lakh. He went on to dominate the season, scoring 608 runs in 12 matches at an average of 67.55 and a strike rate of 183.13.

This thunderous performance with the bat also helped RCB enter their first-ever IPL final, where they unfortunately lost to Chennai Super Kings. Gayle continued his dominance over the next two seasons, smashing over 700 runs each year, proving that this low-cost signing was one of the best bargains in IPL history.