Cricket is more than a game — it’s a money-making machine. Central contracts, league salaries, and brand partnerships now give top players earnings at levels never seen before in the sport. From the IPL to the WPL, cricket produces incomes that continue to grow each season.
Fans everywhere ask the same question: Who are the richest cricketers in the world right now? Many fans also search for legends like Virat Kohli net worth, Sachin Tendulkar net worth & MS Dhoni net worth, which we’ve included below.
This guide gives you verified numbers and clear comparisons. It highlights the richest cricketers in the world in 2025 — men and women, retired greats and rising stars — and explains how each built their wealth.
How we calculated net worth
All net worth figures in this blog are based on publicly available data from reliable news outlets, cricket boards, and verified financial reports as of 2025. We looked at:
- Player Salaries: BCCI and ICC contracts plus franchise leagues such as the IPL, Big Bash, and others.
- Endorsements: Sports gear deals, lifestyle brands, and long-term sponsorships.
- Business Ventures and Assets: Company stakes, academies, real estate, stocks, and other investments.
- Public Records and Interviews: Financial disclosures, public filings, and credible media reports.
Figures combine active salaries, endorsement income, investments, and post-retirement ventures. All numbers are rounded and may vary slightly across sources.
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Quick answer: who is the richest cricketer in the world 2025?
The richest cricketer in the world in 2025 is Sachin Tendulkar, with an estimated net worth of $170 million (₹1,415 crore).
- Nationality: Indian
- Status: Retired (2013)
- Main Income Sources: Brand endorsements, business investments, IPL team stake, property holdings
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Top 3 richest cricketers in 2025
- Sachin Tendulkar — $170M
- MS Dhoni — $127M
- Virat Kohli — $125M
Top 25 richest cricketers in the world (2025)
Here’s a quick snapshot before we go deeper:
| Rank | Cricketer | Country | Net Worth (Est.) | Status | Main Income Sources |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sachin Tendulkar | India | $170M | Retired | Endorsements, businesses, IPL stake |
| 2 | MS Dhoni | India | $127M | Retired | IPL, brand deals, hotels, sports biz |
| 3 | Virat Kohli | India | $125M | Active | Endorsements, IPL, fashion, fitness |
| 4 | Ricky Ponting | AUS | $70M | Retired | Coaching, media, wine business |
| 5 | Brian Lara | WI | $60M | Retired | Real estate, golf courses, media |
| 6 | Shane Warne* | AUS | $50M | Retired | Media, endorsements, poker ventures |
| 7 | Jacques Kallis | SA | $48M | Retired | Coaching, investments, commentary |
| 8 | Chris Gayle | WI | $45M | Active | T20 leagues, music, endorsements |
| 9 | Virender Sehwag | India | $40M | Retired | Commentary, academies, endorsements |
| 10 | Shane Watson | AUS | $40M | Retired | Coaching, commentary, businesses |
| 11 | AB de Villiers | SA | $35M | Retired | YouTube, commentary, endorsements |
| 12 | Yuvraj Singh | India | $35M | Retired | Investments, foundation, endorsements |
| 13 | Steve Smith | AUS | $30M | Active | Cricket contracts, endorsements |
| 14 | Rohit Sharma | India | $28M | Active | BCCI contract, IPL, endorsements |
| 15 | David Warner | AUS | $26M | Active | IPL, endorsements, digital content |
| 16 | Ben Stokes | ENG | $25M | Active | ECB contract, IPL, endorsements |
| 17 | Shikhar Dhawan | India | $24M | Active | IPL, endorsements, real estate |
| 18 | Sunil Gavaskar | India | $22M | Retired | Commentary, endorsements |
| 19 | Kapil Dev | India | $21M | Retired | Businesses, endorsements |
| 20 | Suresh Raina | India | $20M | Retired | IPL legacy, businesses, endorsements |
| 21 | Hardik Pandya | India | $19M | Active | IPL, BCCI, endorsements |
| 22 | Glenn Maxwell | AUS | $18M | Active | IPL, BBL, endorsements |
| 23 | Rishabh Pant | India | $16M | Active | IPL, endorsements, BCCI contract |
| 24 | Shubman Gill | India | $12M | Active | IPL, endorsements, BCCI contract |
| 25 | Andre Russell | WI | $12M | Active | T20 leagues, endorsements |
* Shane Warne’s wealth is calculated posthumously, reflecting his estate.
Disclaimer: All net worth figures are estimates based on publicly available information as of 2025. Actual numbers may vary.
Detailed profiles of the top 10 richest cricketers
Below are short, clear profiles of how the top 10 cricketers built their fortunes. All values are updated for 2025 and shown in USD.
1. Sachin Tendulkar net worth – richest cricketer in the world
Career summary: Known as the “God of Cricket,” Sachin Tendulkar remains the richest cricketer in the world in 2025. His estimated net worth is around $170 million (₹1,415 crore), built through decades of brand partnerships and investments.
How he earns:
- Endorsements: MRF, BMW, Pepsi, Adidas
- Businesses: Restaurants, sports academies, and co-ownership in an IPL franchise
- Investments: Stake in Smaaash, property holdings, and tech startups
- Philanthropy: UNICEF ambassador, education and health programs for underprivileged kids
2. MS Dhoni net worth – businesses, endorsements & lifestyle
Career summary: MS Dhoni, India’s most successful captain, continues to be one of the richest retired cricketers. His 2025 net worth is approximately $127 million (₹1,060 crore), driven by investments and diverse business ventures.
How he earns:
- Retirement income: IPL deals, BCCI pension
- Endorsements: Reebok, TVS, GoDaddy, Red Bus
- Businesses: Owns Chennaiyin FC, Seven clothing brand, hotel chain
- Fun fact: Runs organic farms and promotes local agriculture with smart tech
3. Virat Kohli net worth – income, endorsements and businesses
Career summary: Virat Kohli remains one of the highest-paid active cricketers worldwide, with a net worth of about $125 million (₹1,040 crore). His wealth comes from BCCI contracts, IPL earnings, global endorsements, and fitness ventures.
How he earns:
- Active earnings: BCCI contract, IPL salary
- Endorsements: Puma, Audi, MRF, Google Pay
- Businesses: One8 fitness clubs, clothing lines, sports tech investments
- Community work: Promotes animal welfare and children’s education initiatives
4. Ricky Ponting net worth – coaching, media and investments
Career summary: Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has built an estimated net worth of $70 million (₹580 crore) through coaching, commentary, and long-term investments.
How he earns:
- Coaching & media: IPL coaching, commentary
- Businesses: Wine production, hospitality ventures
- Endorsements: Cricket gear brands in Australia and the UK
- Charity: Supports junior cricket programs in Tasmania
5. Brian Lara net worth – real estate and brand endorsements
Career summary: Brian Lara, the legendary West Indies batter, has an estimated net worth of $60 million (₹500 crore) from luxury property holdings, commentary, and corporate deals.
How he earns:
- Real estate: Golf courses, luxury property investments
- Commentary: Global TV and radio appearances
- Corporate partnerships: Tourism boards and sports campaigns
- Charity: Lara Foundation for health and youth sport
6. Shane Warne net worth – legacy ventures and media rights
Career summary: Shane Warne’s estate continues to grow even after his passing, valued at around $50 million (₹415 crore). His legacy earnings include brand licensing, media royalties, and memorabilia sales.
How he earns (Estate):
- Media rights: Legacy commentary content
Endorsements: Fashion and poker ventures remain active - Businesses: Licensing deals and memorabilia
- Charity: Funds youth cricket programs via foundations
*Shane Warne’s figure is based on his estate earnings and continuing business activity.
7. Jacques Kallis net worth – coaching and investments
Career summary: Jacques Kallis, one of cricket’s greatest all-rounders, holds a net worth of $48 million (₹400 crore) from coaching, commentary, and strategic investments.
How he earns:
- Coaching: IPL, international sides, and private academies
- Investments: Sports management firms and property
- Endorsements: Cricket equipment and coaching programs
- Community work: Youth sports scholarships in South Africa
8. Chris Gayle net worth – t20 leagues and lifestyle ventures
Career summary: The “Universe Boss” Chris Gayle continues to entertain fans globally, maintaining a net worth of $45 million (₹375 crore) from franchise leagues and lifestyle businesses.
How he earns:
- Leagues: CPL, IPL, global T20 events
- Music & Lifestyle: Produces music and runs apparel lines
- Endorsements: Sports gear, beverages, betting platforms
- Charity: Runs events supporting Caribbean youth programs
9. Virender Sehwag net worth – commentary, academies and brand work
Career summary: Virender Sehwag has a net worth of $40 million (₹335 crore), supported by commentary, coaching academies, and media appearances.
How he earns:
- Academies: Runs Sehwag International School and cricket programs
- Commentary: TV and digital channels
- Endorsements: Indian brands and cricket gear
- Fun fact: Active on social media sharing coaching tips
10. Shane Watson net worth – coaching, media and fitness ventures
Career summary: Shane Watson’s net worth stands at $40 million (₹335 crore) in 2025, with earnings from coaching, commentary, and his growing fitness business.
How he earns:
- Coaching: IPL, private leagues, and training camps
- Media: Commentary, cricket podcasts
- Businesses: Fitness and online coaching platforms
- Charity: Mentoring programs for junior players
Rising millionaires in cricket (2025)
These young stars are climbing fast thanks to smart deals and social reach:
| Player | Country | Key Income Sources | Net Worth Estimate |
| Shubman Gill | India | IPL, BCCI, endorsements (Boat, CEAT) | $12M+ |
| Hardik Pandya | India | IPL captaincy, Gillette, Dream11 ads | $19M+ |
| Shaheen Afridi | Pakistan | PSL, central contract, brands in Pakistan | $6M+ |
| Smriti Mandhana | India | WPL, Nike, Hyundai ads | $6M+ |
| Rishabh Pant | India | BCCI A+, IPL, SG, JSW | $16M+ |
What’s driving their wealth?
- Big IPL/WPL contracts
- Instagram followers → more brand deals
- Startup funding rounds and equity in fashion/tech
How cricket earnings differ by region
Cricketers make money in different ways based on where they play:
India
- BCCI central contracts: A+ players earn ₹7 Cr/year
- IPL: Star players get ₹15–20 Cr/season
- Brands: India leads in endorsement money
- Exchange rate impact: Dollar strength can lower the global rank for Indian players
Also read: How BCCI Earns Money
Australia & England
- Central contracts: $1–2M/year
- Leagues: Big Bash & The Hundred offer good seasonal pay
- Extras: Media appearances, coaching jobs
West Indies & South Africa
- Less board money: Players rely more on T20 leagues
- Endorsements: Local brands and some global appeal
- Trend: Many now focus on coaching and commentary
Average net worth by country – 2025
| Country | Avg Net Worth of Top 5 Cricketers |
| India | $110M |
| Australia | $56M |
| England | $48M |
| South Africa | $35M |
| West Indies | $30M |
Richest female cricketers in 2025
Women’s cricket is finally attracting strong contracts, especially with the Women’s Premier League (WPL). Below are the richest female cricketers in 2025.
| Rank | Player | Country | Net Worth (USD) | Main Income Sources |
| 1 | Ellyse Perry | Australia | $14M | WPL contracts, endorsements, coaching |
| 2 | Meg Lanning | Australia | $9M | National contracts, sponsorships |
| 3 | Mithali Raj | India | $7M | Retired, commentary, brand deals |
| 4 | Smriti Mandhana | India | $6M | WPL, endorsements, social media |
| 5 | Harmanpreet Kaur | India | $5M | India captain, WPL, sponsorships |
Women’s cricket wealth is still growing, but WPL deals and brand support are accelerating it fast.
Also read: richest Indian women cricketers
Highest-paid cricketers by category
Different types of players earn in different ways. Here’s a clear breakdown.
| Category | Top Names | Average Net Worth (USD) | Main Income Sources |
| Active International | Virat Kohli, Steve Smith | $25M+ | Central contracts, endorsements |
| Retired Legends | Tendulkar, Dhoni, Lara | $60M+ | Businesses, commentary, brand deals |
| Franchise/T20 Specialists | Chris Gayle, Andre Russell | $15M+ | League fees, sponsorships |
Country-wise wealth analysis
India dominates cricket wealth. Seven of the top ten richest cricketers are Indian due to the IPL and a vast sponsorship market.
| Country | Top Earners (2025) | Combined Net Worth (USD) | Key Factors |
| India | Tendulkar, Dhoni, Kohli | $500M+ | IPL, large brands, huge fan base |
| Australia | Ponting, Smith, Warne estate | $150M+ | Coaching, BBL, endorsements |
| West Indies | Lara, Gayle, Russell | $120M+ | T20 leagues, endorsements |
| South Africa | Kallis, AB de Villiers | $80M+ | Coaching, investments |
| England | Ben Stokes, franchise players | $50M+ | ECB contracts, The Hundred |
India’s cricket economy remains the engine of player wealth. However, Australia and the West Indies maintain strong positions through coaching and franchise leagues.
How cricketers build their net worth
Cricketers grow their earnings from multiple channels. Here is how it works:
- Match fees and central contracts: Each cricket board pays players a yearly retainer and match fee.
- Franchise cricket leagues: IPL, Big Bash, The Hundred, SA20 and CPL pay high fees per season.
- Brand endorsements: Deals with sportswear, cars, beverages and tech brands add millions per year.
- Business investments: Players buy stakes in gyms, restaurants, tech startups and sports academies.
- Media appearances and commentary: Retired players keep earning from TV, streaming, and guest spots.
This mix creates long-term wealth far beyond a player’s active years.
Also read: Biggest Cricket Franchise in the World
Fastest growing net worth & future millionaires
New players are entering the rich list faster than ever before.
| Player | Current Net Worth (USD) | Why Growth Is Fast |
| Shubman Gill | $12M | IPL star, new endorsements, young age |
| Rishabh Pant | $16M | BCCI contract, IPL captaincy potential |
| Hardik Pandya | $19M | Captaincy roles, fashion partnerships |
| Shaheen Afridi | $8M | PSL and global T20 contracts |
With new leagues launching, these players could double their net worth by 2026.
Brand endorsements & business ventures
Brand partnerships are the engine of cricket wealth.
- Top brand deals: Puma (Kohli), MRF (Tendulkar), Pepsi (Dhoni), Adidas (Smith).
- Popular categories: Sportswear, cars, watches, food and beverage.
- Business ventures: Dhoni’s sports franchises, Kohli’s fitness chain, Tendulkar’s restaurants, Gayle’s music label.
- Why it matters: Endorsements provide steady income even after retirement.
Many cricketers also launch academies to nurture young talent while creating a new revenue stream.
Lifestyle & assets of rich cricketers
Wealth shows up in how cricketers live, but most also give back.
- Luxury cars: Tendulkar owns BMWs, Kohli drives an Audi collection, Dhoni keeps vintage bikes.
- Real estate: Villas in Mumbai, Sydney, London, and Caribbean islands.
- Private jets and travel: Dhoni and Kohli charter private flights for schedules.
- Philanthropy: Yuvraj Singh’s cancer foundation, Ponting’s children’s hospital work, Lara’s charity events.
This balance between luxury and community work builds lasting respect.
How cricketers invest & manage their wealth
Today’s cricketers think long-term. Many grow their money through business, not just cricket.
Common investments:
- Real estate: Ponting, Dhoni, and Gayle own property worldwide.
- Startups: Kohli and Cummins have backed tech brands and health apps.
- Fashion & fitness: One8 (Kohli), Seven (Dhoni), and Wrogn are high-selling brands.
- Sports teams: Tendulkar (Kerala Blasters), Kohli (FC Goa), and Dhoni (Chennaiyin FC) all co-own franchises.
Challenges they face:
- Taxes: Global incomes create tax complications.
- Currency changes: Dollar vs rupee shifts affect net worth ranks.
- Post-retirement planning: Not all invest smartly—some lose wealth without solid planning.
Wealth growth timeline & historical context
Cricketer wealth has changed dramatically:
- Pre-2000: Players relied on match fees and small endorsements.
- Post-2008 IPL era: Franchise cricket raised salaries across the board.
- 2020–2025: WPL and new leagues expanded opportunities for women and men alike.
The next step could be international player auctions and global club cricket, making earnings even higher.
Cricketers giving back: charity & social work
Wealth isn’t just for luxury cars or mansions. Many top cricketers are using their money to give back.
- Sachin Tendulkar: Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF. Supports child education and health campaigns.
- MS Dhoni: Runs projects in rural farming and backs local sports academies.
- Virat Kohli: His foundation supports young athletes and runs awareness drives for children’s welfare.
- Yuvraj Singh: Founded YouWeCan to support cancer patients and survivors.
- Pat Cummins: Donated to bushfire relief and mental health campaigns in Australia.
These efforts show how cricket fame can also help people in need—not just fill bank accounts.
Conclusion
Sachin Tendulkar remains the richest cricketer in the world in 2025, followed by MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli. Yet wealth in cricket is spreading faster than ever, with women cricketers and young stars joining the list.
Cricket’s earning power reflects both talent and dedication. Whether you’re a grassroots player or a global icon, your effort matters.
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FAQs
Who is the richest cricketer in the world in 2025?
Sachin Tendulkar with $170 million.
Who is richer: MS Dhoni or Virat Kohli?
MS Dhoni at $127M edges out Virat Kohli at $125M in 2025.
Who is the richest female cricketer?
Ellyse Perry leads at $14 million.
What is Virat Kohli’s net worth in 2025?
Virat Kohli’s net worth in 2025 is estimated at $125 million (₹1,040 crore), driven by endorsements, IPL salary, and business ventures like One8 and Wrogn.
What is MS Dhoni’s net worth in 2025?
MS Dhoni’s 2025 net worth is $127 million (₹1,060 crore). His earnings come from IPL deals, brand endorsements, and businesses such as Seven and his organic farming ventures.
How much does a top IPL player earn per season?
Around $2–3 million from salary, plus endorsements.
Are retired cricketers richer than active ones?
Yes. Retired legends often earn more from businesses and long-term deals.
What are the main income sources for cricketers?
Match fees, endorsements, franchise leagues, investments, and media work.
Which country produces the richest cricketers?
India, due to IPL, huge fan base, and large sponsorship market.
Who was the first cricket millionaire?
Kapil Dev and Sunil Gavaskar crossed early million-dollar thresholds in the 1980s.
Can young players reach millionaire status quickly?
Yes. With IPL contracts and social media reach, players like Gill and Pant already have.
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