From Kohli to Cummins: Top 5 Highest-Paid Cricketers in the World
Pat Cummins is Australia's bowling mainstay across formats
As the game of cricket continues to flourish worldwide, it has garnered an unprecedented level of popularity, drawing in an ever-expanding fan base. This growth has catalyzed a notable surge in revenue streams, primarily from the successful T20 leagues, generating substantial profits for investors and promoters.
In parallel, the cricket boards have also witnessed a remarkable increase in earnings compared to past years, driven by the skyrocketing value of broadcasting and digital rights, and the surge in brand endorsement prices.
As a testament to this, the Indian Premier League has recently surpassed the likes of NBA, NFL, and La Liga to become the second-most expensive league globally in terms of broadcasting and digital rights, following the English Premier League. This abundance of financial resources has translated into an equally remarkable rise in the salaries of the world's top cricketers.
In this listicle, we take a look at the top 5 highest-paid cricketers globally based on their remunerations from their respective cricket boards:
5. Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja - (₹7 crore)
For over a decade, the stalwarts of Indian cricket, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, have been the bedrock of the national team's success. These cricketing maestros have held a prestigious position in the BCCI's A+ contract for an extended period, receiving an annual remuneration of ₹7 crore.
Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma & Jasprit Bumrah are the linchpins of the Indian team (Twitter)
Another player who has risen through the ranks and been appointed as the Test team's vice-captain, despite his ongoing struggles with injury is Jasprit Bumrah. His contributions to Indian cricket have been vital, and he is one of only four players who have been granted an A+ contract by the BCCI. The latest entrant to the elite league is Ravindra Jadeja, who has earned a place in the A+ category following his outstanding performances across formats.
4. Marnus Labuschagne – (₹9.84 crore approximately)
Within a relatively short period, Marnus Labuschagne has established himself as a prominent player in Australian cricket, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Steven Smith as one of the country's most valuable batters in Test cricket. Moreover, he currently reigns as the top-ranked batter in the ICC Test batting rankings.
Marnus Labuschagne has quickly made a name for himself in the cricketing community (Twitter)
In recognition of his prowess with the bat, Cricket Australia (CA) has bestowed upon him a substantial contract, with an annual value of USD 1.2 million (₹9.84 crore). With his remarkable skill and impressive achievements, the right-hander has become a valuable asset to Australian cricket, and his place among the sport's elite batters is well-deserved.
3. Steve Smith – (₹10.66 crore approximately)
Steven Smith is widely regarded as the preeminent modern-day batter in Test cricket. His remarkable consistency, boasting a Test batting average of 59.81, has earned him widespread recognition as one of the game's all-time greats. Despite formerly being the highest earner in the Australian cricket team, he has since been surpassed by some of his colleagues in the latest central contracts.
Steve Smith's record in Test cricket is unparalleled (Twitter)
Nevertheless, the unorthodox batter continues to hold a prestigious position, receiving an annual contract worth USD 1.3 million (₹10.66 crore) from Cricket Australia (CA). Smith's significant contributions to Australian cricket, coupled with his unmatched consistency and reliability, have cemented his place as one of the most exceptional batters of his generation.
2. David Warner (₹12.30 crore approximately)
David Warner is indisputably one of the most crucial players for the Australian cricket team, across all formats. Despite being in the fag end of his career, Warner's enduring prowess and consistent match-winning performances have secured his position in the team, and he remains a force to be reckoned with on the field. His formidable abilities and unmatched contributions to the sport have earned him a prestigious central contract, valued at an impressive USD 1.5 million (₹12.30 crore).
David Warner has been one of the most consistent batters in the last decade (Twitter)
The accomplished batter's unwavering commitment to the game, coupled with his excellent skills, have enabled him to maintain his place in the team, delivering outstanding performances time and again. As per the latest central contracts, Warner earns a handsome USD 125k per month, a testament to his continued excellence on the field. Despite the challenges of age, Warner's enduring influence on the sport remains unparalleled, and his dedication and formidable talent have secured his place among the highest-earning cricketers in the world.
1. Pat Cummins (₹16.41 crore approximately)
At present, Australian cricket captain Pat Cummins holds the distinction of being the highest-paid cricketer in the world. As the leader of the Australian team, he features in all formats of the game and commands a central contract valued at an astounding USD 2 million (₹16.41 crore), which includes a captaincy bonus of USD 200k. Cummins' formidable presence on the field, coupled with his outstanding performances in all three facets of the game, has secured his place as a vital member of the team. As a result, he currently stands as Australia's highest-earning player.
Pat Cummins is Australia's skipper in all three formats (Twitter)
The 30-year-old has been an integral part of the Australian team for several years, consistently delivering match-winning performances and establishing his position as one of the world's premier pace bowlers. His impressive achievements on the field, combined with his immense earning potential, make him worthy of occupying the top spot in the list of the highest-paid cricketers in the world.
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