The Indian Premier League (IPL) is not just a cricketing carnival—it’s a financial powerhouse where players rake in colossal sums. Since its inception in 2008, IPL has transformed cricketers into multimillionaires, thanks to lucrative contracts and endorsements. As IPL 2025 approaches, it’s time to look at the highest earners in IPL history. Who has earned the most in the history of this T20 extravaganza? Let’s take a closer look—check in pics!
IPL 2025: Who Has Earned The Most In Indian Premier League History?
The IPL’s pay scale has skyrocketed over the years, with some players earning eye-watering sums. From Virat Kohli to MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma, here’s a detailed breakdown of the top earners.
1. Virat Kohli – ₹237.7 Crore
Virat Kohli, the stalwart of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), remains the highest-paid player in IPL history. His unwavering loyalty to RCB and unmatched consistency have resulted in an astronomical ₹237.7 crore in earnings over the years.
Kohli’s Journey in IPL
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2008-2011: Earned ₹12 lakh in the inaugural season.
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2012-2017: Salary skyrocketed to ₹12.5 crore.
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2018-2021: Became the highest-paid player with ₹17 crore annually.
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2022-2025: Retained for ₹21 crore in IPL 2025.
Why Is Kohli Paid So Much?
Kohli’s dedication to RCB and exceptional batting skills have kept him at the top. His star power ensures packed stadiums and high TV ratings, making him indispensable.
2. MS Dhoni – ₹205.34 Crore
MS Dhoni, the iconic captain of Chennai Super Kings (CSK), is second on the list, with a staggering ₹205.34 crore in earnings. Despite being retained for just ₹4 crore in IPL 2025, his overall career earnings place him among the league’s top earners.
Dhoni’s IPL Journey
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2008: Earned ₹6 crore in the inaugural season.
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2011-2017: Consistently retained for ₹8 crore annually.
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2018-2021: Retained for ₹15 crore, reflecting his massive contribution to CSK.
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2022-2025: Retained for ₹4 crore, marking a significant pay cut.
What Makes Dhoni a Top Earner?
Dhoni’s captaincy, cool temperament, and clutch performances have cemented his place as a CSK legend. His ability to turn matches around makes him a perennial fan favorite.
3. Rohit Sharma – ₹204.90 Crore
Rohit Sharma, the most successful IPL captain, has led Mumbai Indians (MI) to five titles and earned ₹204.90 crore in his IPL career.
Rohit’s IPL Journey
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2008-2010: Played for Deccan Chargers with a ₹3 crore contract.
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2011-2017: MI acquired Rohit for ₹9 crore annually.
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2018-2021: Retained for ₹15 crore as captain.
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2022-2025: Retained for ₹16 crore, maintaining his status as one of IPL’s top earners.
Why Rohit Commands a High Price?
Rohit’s leadership skills, coupled with his ability to deliver under pressure, make him one of the highest-paid IPL players.
4. Ravindra Jadeja – ₹127 Crore
Ravindra Jadeja, the star all-rounder for CSK, has amassed ₹127 crore in IPL earnings. His consistency with bat and ball makes him an invaluable asset.
Jadeja’s IPL Journey
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2008-2009: Started with Rajasthan Royals at ₹12 lakh.
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2012-Present: Joined CSK, where his salary steadily increased.
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2022-2025: Retained for ₹18 crore in IPL 2025.
Why Is Jadeja Highly Paid?
Jadeja’s all-round capabilities provide balance to CSK’s lineup, ensuring his place among IPL’s highest-paid players.
5. Sunil Narine – ₹119.02 Crore
Sunil Narine, the mystery spinner from Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), has earned over ₹119 crore, thanks to his consistent match-winning performances.
Narine’s IPL Journey
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2012-2014: Earned ₹3.5 crore per season.
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2015-2021: Retained for ₹12.5 crore.
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2022-2025: Retained for ₹6 crore, showcasing his value to KKR.
What Makes Narine Special?
Narine’s ability to choke runs and provide breakthroughs in critical moments makes him one of the most valuable overseas players in IPL history.
6. Suresh Raina – ₹110.74 Crore
Suresh Raina, also known as “Mr. IPL,” earned over ₹110 crore during his illustrious IPL career.
Raina’s IPL Journey
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2008-2015: Consistently retained by CSK for ₹5.5 crore.
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2016: Played for Gujarat Lions at ₹12.5 crore.
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2018-2021: Retained for ₹11 crore before retiring.
Why Was Raina a Consistent Earner?
Raina’s aggressive batting and fielding prowess made him a CSK mainstay.
7. AB de Villiers – ₹102 Crore
AB de Villiers, a fan favorite, enthralled IPL audiences for over a decade, earning ₹102 crore.
AB de Villiers’ IPL Journey
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2008-2010: Played for Delhi Daredevils with a ₹3 crore contract.
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2011-2021: Moved to RCB, where he earned ₹11 crore annually.
Why Was AB de Villiers Valued So Highly?
His ability to innovate and turn games around made him one of the highest-paid IPL stars.
How IPL Salaries Have Evolved Over the Years?
IPL salaries have witnessed an upward trajectory since 2008. Initially, player contracts ranged between ₹1 crore and ₹5 crore. However, by 2018, marquee players like Kohli, Dhoni, and Rohit commanded ₹15-17 crore annually.
Impact of Mega Auctions on Player Salaries
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2011: Introduction of retention policies boosted player earnings.
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2018: Mega auction increased the base price of players.
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2022-2025: Retention and Right to Match (RTM) cards influenced player salaries.
IPL 2025: Which Player Has Earned The Most In Indian Premier League History – Check In Pics
As IPL 2025 approaches, Kohli continues to dominate as the highest-paid IPL player. While Dhoni and Rohit remain close behind, newer stars like Jadeja and Narine are quickly catching up. The earnings of these players not only reflect their on-field performances but also their brand value and contribution to the league’s success.
Comparison Table: Top IPL Earners
| Player | Team | Total Earnings (₹ Crore) | Highest Salary (₹ Crore/Season) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virat Kohli | RCB | 237.7 | 21 |
| MS Dhoni | CSK | 205.34 | 15 |
| Rohit Sharma | MI | 204.90 | 16 |
| Ravindra Jadeja | CSK | 127 | 18 |
| Sunil Narine | KKR | 119.02 | 12.5 |
| Suresh Raina | CSK/GL | 110.74 | 12.5 |
| AB de Villiers | RCB/DD | 102 | 11 |
Future Earnings Projections for IPL 2025 and Beyond
With IPL viewership growing exponentially, player earnings are expected to increase. Retentions and Right to Match (RTM) policies will play a pivotal role in deciding future contracts.
FAQs About IPL 2025 Player Earnings
1. Who is the highest-paid IPL player of all time?
Virat Kohli is the highest-paid IPL player with total earnings of ₹237.7 crore.
2. Who is the second-highest earner in IPL history?
MS Dhoni follows closely with ₹205.34 crore in earnings.
3. How much did Rohit Sharma earn in his IPL career?
Rohit Sharma has earned ₹204.90 crore during his IPL stint.
4. Which foreign player has earned the most in IPL?
Sunil Narine, with ₹119.02 crore, is the highest-paid foreign player in IPL history.
5. How much did Ravindra Jadeja earn in IPL 2025?
Jadeja was retained for ₹18 crore in IPL 2025.
6. Who was the highest-paid player in IPL 2025?
Virat Kohli was retained by RCB for ₹21 crore, making him the highest-paid player in IPL 2025.
Conclusion
As IPL 2025 gears up for another electrifying season, the earnings of these cricketing legends continue to inspire aspiring cricketers. Virat Kohli’s unmatched earnings, Dhoni’s legacy, and Rohit Sharma’s tactical brilliance reflect the financial prowess of the IPL. These players have not only etched their names in IPL history but also redefined the financial landscape of T20 cricket.
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