Rishabh Pant dethrones Virat Kohli as India's top-earning cricketer post IPL 2025 mega auction
Pant's earnings could increase further if he is promoted to the A+ category in the BCCI contracts, expected in March 2025
PTC Web Desk: The 2025 IPL mega auction has significantly reshaped India's cricketing landscape, with Rishabh Pant emerging as the highest-paid cricketer. The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) secured Pant for a record-breaking Rs 27 crore, making him the highest-earning Indian cricketer. Shreyas Iyer and Venkatesh Iyer also made headlines, being bought for Rs 26.75 crore and Rs 23.75 crore, respectively. In terms of player retention, Virat Kohli remained the top pick, with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) retaining him for Rs 21 crore. However, the auction results dethroned Kohli from his long-held position as India's highest-paid cricketer.
Pant vs.Kohli: Earning comparison
Rishabh Pant now leads with annual cricket earnings of Rs 32 crore, which include Rs 27 crore from IPL and Rs 5 crore from his BCCI central contract (Category A). Virat Kohli's annual income stands at Rs 28 crore, comprising Rs 21 crore from IPL and Rs 7 crore from his BCCI central contract (A Category).
Pant's earnings could increase further if he is promoted to the A category in the BCCI contracts, expected in March 2025. This move would reflect his vital role in India's plans across all formats. Conversely, Kohli, no longer part of India’s T20 squad, risks being demoted to Category A, which could result in a pay cut.
Shreyas Iyer and Venkatesh Iyer, while fetching substantial amounts at the auction, are currently not part of the BCCI central contracts. Shreyas, however, has a chance to return if he re-establishes himself in the Indian team.