Due to enormous increases in IPL retention, the growth of international T20 leagues, and an increase in luxury brand endorsements, cricket finance reached previously unheard-of heights in 2025.
In terms of pure commercial strength, newer performers are catching up to veteran legends, marking a dramatic shift this year.
IPL contracts and private equity-backed endorsements have replaced international match fees as the main source of these profits in 2025. Since the IPL season now takes up a large amount of the year, these athletes’ “cost per ball” has made them some of the highest-paid athletes in the world on an hourly basis.
2025’s Top 10 highest-paid cricketers:
Virat Kohli: With an estimated income of between Rs 250 crore and Rs 300 crore in 2025, world No. 1 batter Virat Kohli topped the earnings rankings. He received Rs 21 crore from Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Rs 7 crore from the BCCI central contract, and significant income from brand endorsements, among other sources.
Rohit Sharma: Next was Rohit Sharma, who made between Rs 150 and Rs 180 crore in the year. IPL contracts, BCCI payouts, and sponsorship deals were the main sources of his income.
Rishabh Pant: Rishabh Pant, who is ranked third among the wealthiest earners, earned between Rs 100 crore and Rs 120 crore in 2025 from endorsements and cricket revenue.
Jasprit Bumrah: With a projected yearly salary of between Rs 90 crore and Rs 110 crore, India pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah came in at number four on the list.
Hardik Pandya: Star all-rounder Hardik Pandya also had a successful year, earning between Rs 80 and Rs 100 crore from a variety of sources.
Shreyas Iyer: With a projected salary of Rs 70 crore to Rs 85 crore, Shreyas Iyer was the sixth highest-paid cricketer of 2025.
Pat Cummins: Australia Test and ODI captain Pat Cummins, ranked seventh, made between Rs 60 crore and Rs 75 crore in 2025, including Rs 18 crore from his Sunrisers Hyderabad IPL deal.
Shubman Gill: This year, Shubman Gill reported profits between Rs 50 crore and Rs 65 crore. After he was appointed as India’s ODI and Test captain in 2026, his income is anticipated to increase even more.
KL Rahul: With projected earnings of Rs 45 crore to Rs 55 crore in 2025, KL Rahul was also one of the highest earners.
Ravindra Jadeja: India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, who made between Rs 40 and Rs 50 crore during the year, completes the list.
