ADVERTISEMENT
The Indian Premier League (IPL) has consistently featured in the world's richest leagues, giving cricket its rightful place among global sports leagues. In fact, the IPL has witnessed remarkable revenue growth since its launch in 2008.
A 2024 valuation study by Houlihan Lokey released earlier this year highlighted that the IPL's business value surged from $8.5 billion in 2022 to an impressive $16.4 billion within two years, a growth of 92.94 per cent.
In terms of brand value, which includes trade names and trademarks, the IPL was valued at $1.8 billion in 2022, rising to $3.2 billion the following year and reaching $3.4 billion in 2024.
Among the franchises, five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) is the most valuable team. CSK's valuation increased from $212 million last year to $231 million in 2024. CSK is followed by the Royal Challengers Bangalore, valued at $227 million, and the Kolkata Knight Riders at $216 million. The Lucknow Super Giants at the bottom of the list is valued at $91 million.
The rise in player salaries has also been significant. In the inaugural season of 2008, MS Dhoni was the highest-paid player, earning Rs11 crore. In 2024, KL Rahul's reported salary is Rs 17 crore. Mitchell Starc leads with a salary of Rs 24.75 crore. The current highest-paid player has seen a 125 per cent increase compared to 2008. Back in 2008, Andrew Symonds was the second-highest earner at Rs 9.5 crore, whereas Pat Cummins now holds the second spot with a salary of Rs 20.50 crore.