Top 5 biggest IPL auction controversies

As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega-auction is all set to take place on November 24 and 25 in Jeddah, it's worth reflecting on how the bidding wars have often seen some controversies associated with them. With 574 players up for grabs and 46 already retained by the ten franchises, the upcoming auction is going to be full of entertainment and drama.

While designed to ensure fair player distribution, the auction system has faced criticism over the years. Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals' decision to utilize their full quota of six retentions this year has already sparked debates about team-building strategies. 

The BCCI's reported plans to modify retention policies, potentially allowing five retentions and one Right to Match (RTM) card, shows the change in the auctions. Though these big auctions have changed the course of the game over the years, there are some controversies that took place at the auction table which are still spoken about.

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Here are the five biggest IPL auction controversies:

5. RCB and KKR fight for Yuvraj Singh In IPL Auction 2014

The 2014 IPL auction saw drama taking place when Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Kolkata Knight Riders both indulged in a bidding war to get the service of former India all-rounder, Yuvraj Singh. What seemed like a straightforward acquisition at INR 10 crore by RCB turned controversial when KKR claimed their bid had gone unnoticed by auctioneer Richard Madley.

Despite initial protests, the auction resumed, forcing RCB to give out an additional INR 4 crore to secure the all-rounder's services. The then Vijay Mallya-owned franchise later filed an official complaint with the IPL Governing Council regarding the proceedings.

The hefty price tag, however, gave decent returns. Yuvraj's sole season with RCB saw him score 376 runs in 14 matches alongside five wickets. The franchise released him before the 2015 auction, where Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) acquired him for INR 16 crore.