Cricket in India has evolved beyond boundary ropes and scorecards.
The game now represents a multi-billion-dollar industry where players command unprecedented financial power.
Modern cricketers earn through multiple revenue channels. Match fees and central contracts form only the base layer.
Brand endorsements, IPL mega-deals, franchise ownership, and strategic investments have transformed star players into business entities.
The financial landscape has shifted dramatically. Players who understand wealth creation beyond their playing years consistently rank among the highest earners.
Richest Cricketers in India 2026
This analysis examines how India’s cricket elite have built and sustained their fortunes through 2026.
Top 13 Richest Cricketers In India
| Rank | Cricketer Name | Net Worth (INR Crores) | Net Worth (USD Million) | Primary Income Sources |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ajay Jadeja | ₹1,450 | $174 | Royal inheritance, endorsements, cricket earnings, business ventures |
| 2 | Sachin Tendulkar | ₹1,400+ | $170 | IPL contracts, endorsements, business investments, brand partnerships |
| 3 | MS Dhoni | ₹1,060 | $128 | IPL salary, endorsements, sports franchises, and real estate |
| 4 | Virat Kohli | ₹1,050 | $127 | RCB contract, global endorsements, fitness ventures, clothing brand |
| 5 | Virender Sehwag | ₹350 | $42 | Cricket career, endorsements, commentary, coaching roles |
| 6 | Yuvraj Singh | ₹291 | $35 | IPL earnings, brand deals, startup investments, sports management |
| 7 | Gautam Gambhir | ₹265 | $32 | KKR captaincy, endorsements, coaching salary, and political career |
| 8 | Sunil Gavaskar | ₹160–260 | $19–31 | Commentary fees, public appearances, legacy endorsements |
| 9 | Suresh Raina | ₹215 | $26 | CSK contract, endorsements, real estate, business investments |
| 10 | Rohit Sharma | ₹214 | $26 | MI captaincy, India captain salary, luxury brand deals |
| 11 | Rahul Dravid | ₹197 | $24 | Coaching salary, endorsements, cricket earnings, investments |
| 12 | Kapil Dev | ₹130–150 | $16–18 | Commentary, endorsements, public appearances, investments |
| 13 | Sourav Ganguly | ₹115–125 | $14–15 | BCCI president’s salary, endorsements, and administrative roles |
Note: Net worth figures are estimates based on public reports and industry sources. Values are indicative and meant for general reference.
Top 13 Wealthiest Cricketers of India
Ajay Jadeja
- Cricket Career Earnings: Jadeja represented India during the 1990s, earning substantial match fees and domestic contracts. His explosive batting in limited-overs cricket, particularly the 1996 World Cup quarter-final against Pakistan, elevated his market value. Post-controversy comeback in domestic cricket added to his lifetime cricket income.
- Endorsements & Brand Deals: His charismatic presence made him a preferred choice for brands during his playing peak. Television commentary and sports analysis roles maintained his endorsement appeal post-retirement. Media appearances across news channels and sports shows contributed steady income streams.
- Business & Investments: Royal lineage from Jamnagar’s princely family forms the foundation of his wealth. Strategic real estate investments and business diversification strengthened his financial portfolio. Family heritage assets combined with modern investment strategies created substantial net worth growth.
- Post-Retirement Income: Commentary contracts with major sports broadcasters provide regular earnings. Occasional acting roles and television appearances supplement income. Cricket analysis and expert opinion assignments maintain public visibility.
- Estimated Net Worth (2026): ₹1,450 crores ($174 million)
- Age: 53
Sachin Tendulkar
- Cricket Career Earnings: A 24-year international career spanning 1989-2013 generated unprecedented cricket earnings. Mumbai Indians IPL contracts from 2008 to 2013 added significant wealth. Central BCCI contracts and bilateral series match fees formed a consistent income base.
- Endorsements & Brand Deals: Global brands, including BMW, Adidas, and Coca-Cola, maintain long-term partnerships. Post-retirement endorsement value remains exceptionally high across multiple product categories. Brand ambassador roles for financial services, automotive, and lifestyle brands continue generating revenue.
- Business & Investments: Co-founder of True Blue clothing line targeting cricket enthusiasts. Investment in SRT Sports Management handles athlete representation. Equity stakes in various startups and business ventures diversify income sources.
- Post-Retirement Income: Rajya Sabha member position provided a government salary until 2019. Media appearances and special cricket assignments command premium fees. Public speaking engagements and brand events maintain earning capacity.
- Estimated Net Worth (2026): ₹1,400+ crores ($170 million)
- Age: 52
MS Dhoni
- Cricket Career Earnings: Chennai Super Kings captaincy contract ranks among IPL’s highest-valued deals annually. 15-year international career (2004-2019) included captaincy bonuses and match fees. World Cup victories in 2007 (T20) and 2011 (ODI) increased commercial value substantially.
- Endorsements & Brand Deals: Long-term partnerships with Reebok, Gulf Oil, and multiple Indian brands. Product categories span automobiles, beverages, financial services, and consumer goods. Endorsement portfolio generates estimated ₹150-200 crores annually.
- Business & Investments: Co-owner of Chennaiyin FC in the Indian Super League football. SportsFit fitness center chain operates multiple locations. Real estate holdings in Ranchi and other cities form an asset base.
- Post-Retirement Income: IPL captaincy continues despite international retirement in 2020. Brand ambassador roles and advertising contracts remain active. Strategic advisory positions with sports organizations add income streams.
- Estimated Net Worth (2026): ₹1,060 crores ($128 million)
- Age: 44
Virat Kohli
- Cricket Career Earnings: Royal Challengers Bangalore retained player with a premium IPL salary bracket. Active international career since 2008 includes captaincy tenure and current player status. Central BCCI contract in the highest category ensures guaranteed annual income.
- Endorsements & Brand Deals: Global partnerships with Puma, Audi, and MRF position him among the highest-earning athletes. Over 20 active brand endorsements span lifestyle, sports, and technology sectors. Social media influence amplifies endorsement value across digital platforms.
- Business & Investments: Co-founder of WROGN and One8 clothing brands targeting the youth market. Chisel gym chain partnership promotes fitness entrepreneurship. Equity investments in multiple startups diversify the business portfolio.
- Post-Retirement Income: Not applicable; active international and IPL career continues through 2026. Future coaching and administrative roles are expected to maintain income levels. Commentary and media opportunities will supplement post-playing earnings.
- Estimated Net Worth (2026): ₹1,050 crores ($127 million)
- Age: 37
Virender Sehwag
- Cricket Career Earnings: International career from 2001 to 2013 included explosive batting performances. IPL contracts with multiple franchises added substantial income. Central contracts and match fees from the BCCI formed consistent earnings.
- Endorsements & Brand Deals: Brand partnerships with Adidas, Samsung, and Boost during playing years. Post-retirement endorsement appeal sustained through social media presence. Commentary work maintains public visibility for brand collaborations.
- Business & Investments: Sehwag International School operates educational institutions. Real estate investments in the Delhi NCR region form an asset portfolio. Various business ventures and advisory roles supplement income.
- Post-Retirement Income: Cricket commentary across international and IPL matches provides regular earnings. Coaching assignments and cricket academy operations generate revenue. Social media content creation and brand partnerships continue to provide income flow.
- Estimated Net Worth (2026): ₹350 crores ($42 million)
- Age: 47
Yuvraj Singh
- Cricket Career Earnings: International career spanning 2000-2019 included World Cup-winning performances. IPL mega-auction purchases by various franchises demonstrated market value. T20 cricket leagues globally expanded earning opportunities.
- Endorsements & Brand Deals: Partnerships with Puma, Pepsi, and health brands during playing peak. Cancer survivorship story enhanced brand appeal and endorsement categories. Post-retirement wellness and lifestyle brand associations maintain income.
- Business & Investments: YouWeCan Ventures invests in multiple Indian startups. Co-ownership of sports franchises in emerging leagues. Real estate holdings and strategic equity investments diversify wealth.
- Post-Retirement Income: Commentary and cricket analysis for broadcast networks. Coaching roles and cricket academy operations supplement earnings. Public speaking engagements focused on sports and health topics.
- Estimated Net Worth (2026): ₹291 crores ($35 million)
- Age: 44
Gautam Gambhir
- Cricket Career Earnings: Kolkata Knight Riders captaincy (2011-2017) included leadership premiums. An international career from 2003 to 2018 provided BCCI contracts and match fees. Critical performances in ICC tournaments increased market value.
- Endorsements & Brand Deals: Brand partnerships with MRF, Reebok, and consumer products during playing years. Political career transitioned endorsement strategy toward select brands. Media presence maintains commercial relevance.
- Business & Investments: Real estate investments in Delhi form a significant asset base. Strategic equity stakes in various business ventures. Advisory roles with corporate entities supplement income.
- Post-Retirement Income: The head coach of the Indian cricket team appointed in 2024 provides a substantial salary. A political career as a former Member of Parliament added government earnings. Commentary and cricket analysis assignments maintain industry connections.
- Estimated Net Worth (2026): ₹265 crores ($32 million)
- Age: 44
Sunil Gavaskar
- Cricket Career Earnings: Legendary 16-year international career (1971-1987) established financial foundation. The first cricketer to score 10,000 Test runs created unprecedented market value. Domestic cricket earnings during the pre-IPL era formed the initial wealth base.
- Endorsements & Brand Deals: Long-term associations with Thums Up and other brands during playing years. Post-retirement endorsement strategy focused on select premium brands. Legacy status maintains endorsement appeal across generations.
- Business & Investments: Professional Management Group was founded for sports marketing and management. Real estate investments accumulated over four decades. Strategic financial investments diversified wealth portfolio.
- Post-Retirement Income: Cricket commentary spanning 40+ years generates consistent broadcast income. Public appearances and speaking engagements command premium fees. Board positions and advisory roles supplement earnings.
- Estimated Net Worth (2026): ₹160-260 crores ($19-31 million)
- Age: 76
Suresh Raina
- Cricket Career Earnings: Chennai Super Kings association, since IPL inception, provided loyalty bonuses. An international career from 2005 to 2020 included consistent central contracts. Franchise value as IPL’s highest run-scorer until 2020 increased earning power.
- Endorsements & Brand Deals: Brand partnerships with Boost, Fantain, and consumer products during peak years. “Mr. IPL” nickname enhanced commercial appeal. Social media presence maintains endorsement opportunities post-retirement.
- Business & Investments: Real estate holdings across multiple Indian cities form an asset base. Equity investments in startups and business ventures. Strategic advisory positions with corporate entities.
- Post-Retirement Income: Commentary and expert analysis assignments for cricket broadcasts. Cricket academies and coaching ventures generate revenue. Brand ambassador roles continue despite retirement from professional cricket.
- Estimated Net Worth (2026): ₹215 crores ($26 million)
- Age: 39
Rohit Sharma
- Cricket Career Earnings: Mumbai Indians captaincy since 2013 includes IPL’s most successful franchise leadership. The Indian cricket team captain position provides the highest BCCI contract category. Record-breaking performances increase bonus structures and match fees.
- Endorsements & Brand Deals: Partnerships with Adidas, CEAT, and Hublot position him among the top-earning athletes. Luxury brand associations reflect premium market positioning. Over 15 active endorsements span sports, lifestyle, and technology sectors.
- Business & Investments: Equity investments in multiple startups diversify income sources. Real estate portfolio includes properties in Mumbai and other cities. Strategic business ventures supplement cricket earnings.
- Post-Retirement Income: Not applicable; active playing career continues as captain across formats. Future administrative and coaching roles are expected post-retirement. Commentary and brand partnerships will maintain income levels.
- Estimated Net Worth (2026): ₹214 crores ($26 million)
- Age: 38
Rahul Dravid
- Cricket Career Earnings: 16-year international career (1996-2012) included captaincy premiums and consistent performance bonuses. IPL contracts with Rajasthan Royals and other franchises added substantial income. Central BCCI contracts in top category throughout a career provided base earnings.
- Endorsements & Brand Deals: Premium brand associations with Gillette, Reebok, and Citizen Watches during playing years. Post-playing endorsement strategy focused on select lifestyle and financial products. “The Wall” persona created unique brand positioning.
- Business & Investments: Real estate investments in Bangalore form significant asset holdings. Strategic equity positions in various business ventures. Financial portfolio management maintained wealth growth post-retirement.
- Post-Retirement Income: Head coach of the Indian cricket team (2021-2024) provided a substantial BCCI salary. National Cricket Academy director role before coaching appointment. Commentary and cricket analysis assignments supplement income.
- Estimated Net Worth (2026): ₹197 crores ($24 million)
- Age: 53
Kapil Dev
- Cricket Career Earnings: 1983 World Cup-winning captain status created unprecedented commercial value. An international career spanning 1978-1994 provided consistent match fees. All-rounder capabilities increased market value during playing years.
- Endorsements & Brand Deals: Legacy endorsements with Palmolive, Boost, and sports brands during career peak. Post-retirement brand associations maintained through the “Haryana Hurricane” persona. Select endorsement strategy focuses on premium and heritage brands.
- Business & Investments: Real estate holdings accumulated over 40+ years form substantial assets. Golf course developments and sports infrastructure investments. Strategic business advisory positions supplement income.
- Post-Retirement Income: Cricket commentary and expert analysis for broadcast networks. Public speaking engagements command premium fees based on legacy status. Corporate advisory roles and brand ambassadorships maintain earnings.
- Estimated Net Worth (2026): ₹130-150 crores ($16-18 million)
- Age: 67
Sourav Ganguly
- Cricket Career Earnings: International career from 1992 to 2008 included a successful captaincy tenure. IPL contracts and domestic cricket earnings supplemented national team income. Aggressive batting style and leadership qualities increased commercial appeal.
- Endorsements & Brand Deals: Brand partnerships with Pepsi, Puma, and Tata Tetley during peak. Post-retirement endorsement strategy maintained through administrative roles. The BCCI president position enhanced brand value and commercial opportunities.
- Business & Investments: Real estate investments in Kolkata and other cities form an asset base. Strategic equity positions in sports and entertainment ventures. Business advisory roles supplement primary income sources.
- Post-Retirement Income: BCCI president position (2019-2022) provided a substantial administrative salary. Commentary and cricket analysis assignments continue post-BCCI tenure. Board positions with cricket bodies and corporate entities maintain earnings.
- Estimated Net Worth (2026): ₹115-125 crores ($14-15 million)
- Age: 53
Factors That Help Cricketers to Generate Wealth
- IPL Contracts & Match Fees
IPL revolutionized cricket earnings through franchise-based auction systems. Annual player retention and mega-auctions create competitive bidding environments. Top-tier players command ₹15-18 crore annual contracts before match bonuses.
International cricket provides BCCI central contracts categorized by player status. Grade A+ contracts offer ₹7 crore annually plus match fees and bonuses. Bilateral series, ICC tournaments, and domestic competitions add supplementary income.
- Brand Endorsements & Sponsorships
Cricket’s massive viewership in India creates premium endorsement opportunities. Top players manage 15-25 active brand partnerships simultaneously. Annual endorsement income often exceeds cricket earnings for established stars.
Product categories span automobiles, consumer goods, financial services, and lifestyle brands. Social media influence amplifies traditional endorsement value through digital campaigns. Long-term ambassador roles provide income stability beyond playing careers.
- Equity Investments & Startups
Modern cricketers invest in technology, fitness, and consumer startups early. Equity stakes in successful ventures generate substantial returns over time. Strategic advisory roles combine financial returns with brand association benefits.
Investment portfolios typically include 5-10 active startup positions. Exit opportunities through acquisitions or IPOs multiply initial investments. Professional wealth management ensures diversified risk across sectors.
- Sports Franchises & Ownership
Multi-sport franchise ownership extends cricket wealth into football, badminton, and kabaddi. Co-ownership structures allow investment without full operational responsibility. League growth and franchise valuations create long-term asset appreciation.
IPL team ownership by former players demonstrates sports investment appeal. Emerging leagues offer entry-level ownership opportunities at lower valuations. Franchise rights generate annual returns through prize money and sponsorships.
- Media, Commentary & Administrative Roles
Post-retirement commentary provides ₹2-5 crore annually for top experts. Broadcast contracts span international cricket, IPL, and domestic tournaments. Expert analysis roles maintain public visibility and endorsement relevance.
Administrative positions with BCCI, ICC, and state associations offer substantial salaries. Coaching roles at national and franchise levels command premium compensation. Board memberships and advisory positions supplement primary income streams.
- Real Estate & Long-Term Assets
Property investments in metropolitan cities provide capital appreciation and rental income. Commercial real estate holdings generate passive income streams. Land acquisitions in developing areas offer high return potential.
Luxury property portfolios serve dual purposes of personal use and investment. Real estate diversification across cities reduces geographic concentration risk. Long-term holding strategies align with wealth preservation goals.
Conclusion:
Ajay Jadeja leads the richest cricketers in India 2026 rankings with ₹1,450 crores, combining royal heritage with cricket success.
His diversified wealth strategy reflects broader trends across the list.
IPL contracts transformed cricket economics, creating annual earning potential exceeding lifetime match fees from previous eras.
Brand partnerships leverage massive Indian cricket viewership into multi-crore endorsement deals.
Strategic business investments ensure wealth sustainability beyond playing careers.
The cricket-wealth ecosystem continues expanding. Emerging T20 leagues, franchise ownership opportunities, and digital media platforms create new revenue channels.
India’s cricket elite demonstrate that sustained financial success requires entrepreneurial vision matching on-field performance.
Also Check:
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- Richest Cricketer in the World
- IPL Team Owners Net Worth
- Most Expensive Cars Owned By Indian Cricketers
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