Cricket is now among the world’s most lucrative sports, with cricketers earning millions in match fees, franchise contracts, and endorsements. Following are the 10 highest-paid cricketers of 2025.
1. Virat Kohli
Indian cricket icon is the highest-paid even now with a projected annual earnings of $36.2 million. His income is derived from his BCCI contract, IPL salary, and significant endorsement deals with international brands.
2. Pat Cummins
The Australian Test captain has seen a rise in his earnings to about $29.5 million a year. His leadership position and high-paying IPL contracts are responsible for most of his earnings.
3. Mitchell Starc
The most sought-after pacer, Starc received a record-breaking IPL contract worth $2.92 million. His stellar performances internationally have also elevated his financial ranking.
4. Rishabh Pant
Indian wicket-keeper batsman Pant was the priciest player in the 2025 IPL auction at $4.92 million. His overall yearly earnings also involve a major national team retainer.
5. Rohit Sharma
India’s white-ball captain earns a $170,000-a-month retainer on a reputed net value of $25 million. His substantial brand gravitas due to sponsorship deals also forms a part of his purse.
6. Ben Stokes
England all-rounder takes home about $18 million every year with handsome returns in the form of ECB contracts, IPL contracts, and deals from premier brands as endorsement clients.
7. Aaron Finch
A limited-overs cricketing giant, Finch earns a monthly income of more than $150,000, with various T20 league deals significantly increasing his net worth.
8. Kane Williamson
The New Zealand skipper earns around $2 million per year, with his central contract pay in addition to playing for international leagues.
9. Joe Root
England’s previous Test skipper boasts a net fortune of $3.3 million with a monthly salary of about $400,000 in terms of contracts and sponsorships.
10. David Warner
Australia’s big-hitting opener earns a yearly income of $26 million supplemented by IPL contracts and sponsorship.
Cricket is now a money powerhouse as the best players have amassed gigantic income both in the form of their performances on the field and sponsorship off the field.
About the Author
