India’s seven costliest IPL player contracts highlight top cricketers like Rishabh Pant, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma. These players, with significant retention fees and BCCI contracts, showcase their value and leadership roles in the IPL. Their high salaries reflect their immense impact on both domestic and international cricket.
1. Rishabh Pant (IPL Contract- Rs. 27 Crore, BCCI Contract – Rs. 3 Crore) – Rs. 30 Crore
Rishabh Pant broke records with a Rs 27 crore IPL deal with Lucknow Super Giants, becoming the most expensive player. Coupled with his Rs 3 crore Grade B BCCI contract, Pant’s total earnings stand at Rs 30 crore. With the possibility of upgrading to a Grade A+ contract, his income is expected to rise, surpassing Virat Kohli in overall contract earnings and solidifying his place among India’s highest-paid cricketers.
2. Virat Kohli (IPL Contract – Rs. 21 Crore, BCCI Contract – Rs. 7 Crore) – Rs. 28 Crore
Virat Kohli, retained by RCB for ₹21 crore, earns ₹28 crore annually through his IPL contract and Grade A+ BCCI deal. With Faf du Plessis’ departure, there is growing speculation about Kohli’s potential return as RCB captain. Fans are eagerly anticipating his leadership.
3. Shreyas Iyer (IPL Contract – Rs. 26.75 Crore) – Rs. 26.75 Crore
The defending IPL-winning captain was surprisingly released by KKR, with PBKS acquiring him for ₹26.75 crore at the auction. Despite his leadership experience, the BCCI did not offer him a central contract this year, leaving his future uncertain. PBKS is relying on him to guide the team to their first-ever IPL title.
4. Jasprit Bumrah (IPL Contract – Rs. 18 Crore, BCCI Contract – Rs. 7 Crore) – Rs. 25 Crore
The Indian speedster, retained by Mumbai Indians (MI) for ₹18 crore, underscores his immense value despite not captaining the team. Renowned for his exceptional stature in Indian cricket, Bumrah also holds a Grade A+ BCCI contract, earning ₹25 crore annually. Speculation is growing about his potential leadership role in India’s future cricket plans.
5. Ravindra Jadeja (IPL Contract – Rs. 18 Crore, BCCI Contract – Rs. 7 Crore) – Rs. 25 Crore
Ravindra Jadeja, a key player for India in all formats before his T20I retirement, was retained by Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for ₹18 crore. With a Grade A+ BCCI contract, his total earnings reach ₹25 crore annually, matching Jasprit Bumrah’s salary. Jadeja’s exceptional all-round performances make him a valuable asset for both CSK and the Indian national team.
6. Rohit Sharma (IPL Contract – Rs. 16.30 Crore, BCCI Contract – Rs. 7 Crore) – Rs. 23.30 Crore
Rohit Sharma, retained by Mumbai Indians (MI) for ₹16.30 crore, is one of India’s top cricketers. Along with his IPL contract, he holds a Grade A+ BCCI contract worth ₹7 crore. Known for his exceptional leadership and batting skills, especially in limited-overs cricket. As India’s captain, his immediate attention is on leading the team to a historic Border-Gavaskar Trophy victory in 2024-25, further cementing his legacy in Indian cricket.
7. Hardik Pandya (IPL Contract – Rs. 16.35 Contract, BCCI Contract – Rs. 5 Crore) – Rs. 21.35 Crore
Hardik Pandya, retained by Mumbai Indians (MI) for ₹16.35 crore, will continue to lead the team in IPL 2025 alongside Suryakumar Yadav. With his Grade A BCCI contract valued at ₹5 crore, Pandya remains a key figure in limited-overs cricket, despite not playing Tests. Renowned for his all-rounder capabilities, he has been a crucial asset to both MI and the Indian team. His leadership and explosive performances with both bat and ball will be central to MI’s success, as he also looks to continue contributing significantly to India’s international achievements.
