In 2025, India’s leading cricketers not only dazzled on the field but also topped the global earnings charts, thanks to a combination of Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) contracts, Indian Premier League (IPL) deals and lucrative brand endorsements. According to media reports, former captain Virat Kohli emerged as the world’s highest-earning cricketer this year.
Estimates suggest Kohli’s total earnings were in the range of Rs 250-300 crore in 2025. This includes around Rs 21 crore from his IPL side Royal Challengers Bangalore, approximately Rs 7 crore from his annual BCCI contract, along with a substantial roster of endorsement deals with leading brands. Even at 37, Kohli’s fitness levels and on-field performances continue to sustain
his formidable brand value, despite his limited-overs workload.
Second on the list is understood to be Rohit Sharma, with estimated annual earnings of Rs 150-180 crore from his IPL contract, central contract and off-field commercial tie-ups. Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant follows in third place, with reported earnings of Rs 100-120 crore through cricket and endorsements in 2025.
Pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is placed fourth, with estimated income of Rs 90-110 crore, while star all-rounder Hardik Pandya is close behind, reportedly making Rs 80-100 crore over the year. Shreyas Iyer is said to have emerged as the 6th-highest earner with Rs 70–85 crore.
Australian captain Pat Cummins is the only overseas player to break into the top bracket, reportedly earning Rs 60–75 crore, including about Rs 18 crore from his IPL contract with Sunrisers Hyderabad.
Young India opener Shubman Gill is estimated to have earned Rs 50–65 crore, with expectations that his income may climb further following his elevation as India’s ODI and Test captain. KL Rahul also features among the top earners with Rs 45–55 crore, while senior all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja rounds off the list with reported earnings of Rs 40–50 crore.
Most of these figures are based on industry estimates and media reporting, and include a mix of BCCI retainers, match fees across formats, IPL payments, prize money and endorsement revenue, underlining how India’s cricket economy continues to tower over the global game.
