Highest Paid Cricketers
Santosh Jha
| 28-10-2024
· Sport team
Welcome Lykkers! Do you know how much a professional cricketer earns annually? How about we check out the highest-paid cricketers in the world?
As of 2024, cricket has solidified itself as one of the most lucrative sports, especially with the rise of the Indian Premier League (IPL), which offers huge salaries alongside players' central contracts and endorsements.
Here's a list of the top 10 highest-paid cricketers in the world for 2024, based on their combined income from contracts, IPL earnings, and endorsements:
1. Virat Kohli – $36.2 million
Kohli remains the top earner in cricket, with his earnings divided between his central contract with the BCCI, his IPL salary, and lucrative endorsements from major brands like Puma, Audi, and Myntra.
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2. Pat Cummins – $29.5 million
Cummins, Australia's captain, earns heavily from his Cricket Australia contract and captaincy bonus. His endorsements and IPL contracts further boost his earnings.
3. Mitchell Starc – $28.7 million
Starc's earnings come from his Australian central contract, his participation in global T20 leagues, and brand endorsements.
4. Steve Smith – $27.4 million
Smith is recognized as one of the finest modern-day Test batters, and his Cricket Australia contract, combined with endorsements, places him among the top earners.
5. David Warner – $26.1 million
Warner's consistent performances across all formats keep him among the top earners, with significant income from his Australian central contract and IPL salary.
6. Rohit Sharma – $25.8 million
As the captain of the Indian cricket team and Mumbai Indians in the IPL, Rohit Sharma's central contract, IPL salary, and endorsements contribute to his massive earnings.
Top 20 Highest-Paid Cricketers in 2024:
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7. Jos Buttler – $25.2 million
Jos Buttler was one of those player who got more recognition through IPL than their national team. Buttler debuted IPL through Mumbai Indians and made his presence felt loud and clear with runs on board.
8. Trent Boult – $24.9 million
Boult's earnings include his New Zealand central contract, substantial IPL salary, and various endorsements.
9. Jasprit Bumrah – $24.6 million
Bumrah is India's premier fast bowler, earning from his BCCI contract, IPL salary with Mumbai Indians, and endorsements.
10. Kane Williamson – $24.3 million
Kane has been the captain of the New Zealand Cricket Team, and Williamson plays for Gujarat Titans in IPL.
These cricketers are leading the charts not only for their central contracts and performance but also due to the rise of the IPL, which has significantly boosted their earnings. Brand endorsements further elevate their financial standing, making cricket one of the most lucrative professions for top-tier athletes.
How do Cricketers earn money
Cricketers earn money from several sources, with their income coming from both professional contracts and endorsements. Here's a breakdown of how they make their money:
1. Central Contracts
National Boards: Cricketers are centrally contracted to their national boards, such as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Cricket Australia (CA), and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). These boards offer players annual retainers based on their importance to the team. Players are categorized into different grades, with higher-ranking players receiving more.
2. Match Fees
Cricketers earn additional money through match fees for playing in international matches. These fees are awarded for every appearance in Tests, One-Day Internationals (ODIs), and Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is).
3. Domestic and Franchise Leagues
Indian Premier League (IPL): One of the biggest sources of income for cricketers, especially for international stars, is the IPL, where players can earn millions for a two-month tournament. Salaries are determined by an auction system. Other Leagues: Cricketers also play in other franchise leagues like Australia's Big Bash League (BBL) and England's The Hundred, earning additional income.
4. Endorsements and Sponsorships
Top cricketers earn significant sums through endorsements from brands. Cricketers promote sports gear, lifestyle products, and other items, making endorsements a large portion of their overall income.
5. Prize Money
Teams and players earn prize money from winning international tournaments like the ICC Cricket World Cup, ICC T20 World Cup, and other prestigious tournaments. This is typically split between the team members.
6. Social Media and Personal Ventures
Cricketers with large social media followings, such as Virat Kohli or MS Dhoni, also earn through sponsored social media posts, collaborations, and promotions.
7. Bonuses and Performance Incentives
Cricketers may also receive bonuses based on their individual performances, such as hitting centuries, taking five-wicket hauls, or leading the team to victory. Additionally, national boards may offer bonuses for winning series or tournaments.
8. Appearances and Media Work
Post-retirement or during breaks, cricketers can earn money by working as commentators, analysts, or in media appearances. Cricket-related shows, advertisements, and promotional events can also generate income.
In summary, cricketers' earnings are a combination of their salaries from central contracts, match fees, league participation, endorsements, and bonuses. The top players, especially those involved in the IPL and with substantial brand partnerships, can earn millions annually.