Long gone are the days when cricket was considered yet another leisurely activity and a sport for passionate hobbyists. Over the past few decades, this exciting game of skill has evolved into a full-fledged career and a source of enormous wealth, fame, and fortune for the few who’ve successfully etched their names in cricket records. With the ever-increasing popularity of cricket, numerous extraordinary and skilled cricketers have been emerging worldwide, ranking among the most famed celebrities with enormous wealth and tremendous fan following. Join us as we take a dive into the aspirational lives of the top 10 richest cricketers in the world and learn more about their sources of fortune.
Additionally, Explore the Top 10 longest sixes in cricket history.
The List Of The Top 10 Richest Cricketers In The World
Now that we know how cricketers utilize different sources of income to gather heaps of never-ending wealth, let’s take a look at 10 of the most successful and wealthiest cricketers who’ve not only mastered their skill in the game but also managed to create wealth beyond comparison. The following table illustrates and ranks the top 10 richest cricketers in the world:
| Rank | Name | Nationality | Estimated Networth |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Sachin Tendulkar | India | $165 million |
| 2. | Mahendra Singh Dhoni | India | $111 million |
| 3. | Virat Kohli | India | $92 million |
| 4. | Ricky Ponting | Australia | $70 million |
| 5. | Brian Lara | West Indies | $60 million |
| 6. | Shane Warne | Australia | $50 million |
| 7. | Jacques Kallis | South Africa | $48 million |
| 8. | Virendra Sehwag | India | $40 million |
| 9. | Shane Watson | Australia | $40 million |
| 10. | Yuvraj Singh | India | $35 million |
1. Sachin Tendulkar
Sachin Tendulkar, often referred to as the "God of Cricket," needs no introduction. The former Indian cricketer is renowned for his exceptional batting skills and made his international debut at the remarkably young age of 16. Over his 24-year career, he set numerous records, including being the only player to score 100 international centuries. Known for his flawless technique and consistency, the Master Blaster’s most memorable moments include his double century in ODIs and leading India to victory in the 2011 World Cup.
Tendulkar's wealth primarily comes from his cricket career, brand endorsements, and business ventures. Throughout his career, he has endorsed brands like Pepsi, Adidas, and BMW, earning substantial fees. Master Blaster has also invested in various startups and owns a stake in the Indian Super League Team, Kerala Blasters. Royalty income from his autobiography, “Playing It My Way” is also a notable contributor to making him the richest cricketer in the world.
2. Mahendra Singh Dhoni
Second among the world's top 10 richest men in cricket is the former Indian cricketer and captain, Mahendra Singh Dhoni. "Captain Cool” is widely celebrated for his calm demeanor and exceptional leadership skills with which he led India to glorious victories in the 2007 T20 World Cup, 2011 Cricket World Cup, and 2013 Champions Trophy. His finishing abilities and wicket-keeping skills like the helicopter shot are iconic. His memorable moments include his match-winning six in the 2011 World Cup final.
Mahi earned a massive part of his fortune from his cricket captaincy, IPL contracts, and brand endorsements. He has been the face of brands like Reebok, Pepsi, and Gulf Oil. Dhoni also owns several businesses, including a sports management company and a chain of gyms called the “Fit7 Fitness Studio”. His investments in real estate and his role as a co-owner of Chennaiyin FC in the Indian Super League add to his wealth.
3. Virat Kohli
The third consecutive Indian to be on the list of the top 10 richest cricketers in the world is Virat Kohli, India’s aggressive batsman and fitness influencer. Kohli earned the title for the fastest century in ODIs by an Indian with his aggressive batting and fitness regime.
Just like his numerous records in cricket, “King Kohli” has numerous sources of income as well, including participating in marketing campaigns and sponsoring businesses. Kohli earns hefty endorsement fees from various multi-national brands including MRF, Puma, and Audi. Kohli also owns a fashion brand, Wrogn, and a nationwide chain of gyms, Chisel. His investments in real estate and his role as a co-owner of FC Goa in the Indian Super League play a significant role in his prosperity.
4. Ricky Ponting
Ricky Ponting, one of Australia's greatest cricketers, is best known for his aggressive batting and inspirational captaincy. Ponting earned a global applause during his unbeaten 140 in the 2003 World Cup Final. Ponting led Australia to two World Cup victories in 2003 and 2007. He is also the second-highest run-scorer in Test cricket and has been called the “Punter” by his cherished fans. Brands like Kookaburra, Adidas, and Rexona pay him graciously for endorsing their products to the masses. Additionally, coaching prominent cricket teams like Delhi Capitals form a large part of Ricky’s sources of income. His autobiography, Ponting: At the Close of Play, provides him with a regular stream of income in the form of royalties.
5. Brian Lara
Known for his elegant batting and record-breaking performances, Brian Lara, a legendary West Indian cricketer, holds the record for the highest individual score in Test cricket (400 not out). Brian is popular among his fans and followers as the "Prince of Port of Spain" for his batting style and ability to dominate bowlers. Multiple business ventures and participation in marketing campaigns for brands like MRF and Angostura have allowed Brian to accumulate heaps of wealth and fortune. Lara has been involved in various business ventures, including real estate and a cricket academy.
6. Shane Warne
Widely regarded as one of the greatest leg-spinners in cricket history, Shane Warne, an iconic Australian cricketer, is one of the top 10 richest cricketers in the world. Along with his exceptional spin bowling and charismatic personality, Warne is critically acclaimed for his "Ball of the Century" pitched to Mike Gatting in 1993. Long-term endorsements for brands like Victoria Bitter and Advanced Hair Studio have been a significant source of Shane’s fortunes. Similar to other veteran cricketers, “Warnie” has been earning as a prominent cricket commentator in recent years.
7. Jacques Kallis
Jacques Kallis, a South African cricket legend, is globally known for his all-round abilities. One of the greatest all-rounders in cricket history, Jacques Kallis “Kalahari” has scored over 10,000 runs and taken more than 250 wickets in both Tests and ODIs and his most memorable moments include the match-winning performances in the 1998 ICC KnockOut Trophy. Kallis's wealth is derived from his mainstream cricket roles and brand endorsements for Slazenger and Castle Lager. Post-retirement, Kallis has taken up coaching roles, including being the head coach of the Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL.
8. Virender Sehwag
Famed for his aggressive style and ability to score quickly, “Viru” holds the record for the highest individual score by an Indian in Test cricket (319). His triple centuries against South Africa and Pakistan earned him the title of "Nawab of Najafgarh”. Sehwag's wealth comes from his cricket career, commentary roles, and endorsements for brands like Hero Honda and Boost. Post-retirement, Sehwag has been a prominent cricket commentator and a cricket analyst. Moreover, he runs a modern and elite school called the Sehwag International School along with a thriving publication business that provides him with a consistent source of income.
9. Shane Watson
The Australian all-rounder, Shane Watson is popularly known for his powerful batting and effective bowling. After his match-winning performance in the 2009 ICC Champions Trophy, he has been a key player for Australia in all cricket formats. Nicknamed by his fans as “Watto”, a large part of like Asics and TAG Heuer. Post-retirement, Watson has been involved in coaching and commentary roles. Moreover, he also earns from his publications.
10. Yuvraj Singh
Yuvraj Singh, a dynamic Indian cricketer, is celebrated for his explosive batting and remarkable all-round performances. Best known for hitting six sixes in an over against England during the 2007 T20 World Cup, the ‘Sixer King’ began accumulating wealth from the very beginning of his cricket career through IPL contracts and numerous brand endorsements. He has been associated with global brands like Puma, Pepsi, Revital, and Reebok. After retiring from active cricket, Yuvi has ventured into business, launching his own fashion label, YouWeCan, and investing in startups. He also earns from his autobiography, “The Test Of My Life” and occasional public appearances.
Conclusion
Cricket legends around the world have built heaps of wealth and live a life of prosperity and fame. To support their sparkling lifestyles, our beloved cricketers ensure to have earning sources beyond the pitch and pavilion. From astronomical match fees to hefty endorsement deals and investing in personal ventures, cricketers have successfully turned their passionate sport into a rewarding avenue to create wealth beyond comparison. Having a closer look at the income streams of the top 10 richest cricketers in the world is just as inspiring and captivating as it can get. It presents a wonderful means of motivation for anyone eager to pair their skills and talents with smart planning and flawless execution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Who is the second richest cricketer in the world?
Ans. As of 2024, Team India’s former captain, Mahendra Singh Dhoni ranks second among the world's top 10 richest men in cricket.
Q2. Who is the highest net-worth cricketer in the world in 2024?
Ans. Presently, Sachin Tendulkar, popularly known as the ‘Master Blaster’ is the top richest cricketer in the world.
Q3. Who is the youngest and richest cricketer in the world?
Ans. Team India’s batsman cum wicket-keeper, Rishabh Pant stands among the richest and youngest cricketers in the world with an estimated net worth of Rs. 100 crores at the age of 26.
Q4. What is Sachin Tendulkar's net worth?
Ans. According to a recent article from the Times Of India, the God of Cricket, Sachin Tendulkar holds a whooping net worth of $165 million, roughly equivalent to ₹1350 crores!
