The Indian Premier League (IPL) isn’t just a cricket tournament—it’s a spectacle, a cultural phenomenon, and, for its captains, a golden paycheck. As we gear up for the IPL 2025 season, the buzz isn’t just about the on-field action but also the off-field numbers. Who’s earning what? Who’s leading whom? And what does it all mean for the teams they helm? At the top of this financial leaderboard stands Pat Cummins, the Aussie pace sensation, followed by Axar Patel and a roster of other talented skippers. Let’s unpack this earnings countdown, sprinkle in some personal takes, and see what’s at stake for these leaders.
I’ve always found the IPL fascinating—not just for the sixes and wickets, but for the sheer scale of its economics. It’s like a stock market for cricket talent, and the captains? They’re the blue-chip stocks. This year, with Pat Cummins leading the pack, we’re seeing a blend of international flair and homegrown grit. So, grab a cup of chai (or coffee, if you’re like me and need that extra kick), and let’s dive into the countdown.
Pat Cummins: The ₹18 Crore Trailblazer
Pat Cummins isn’t just a captain—he’s a statement. Retained by Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) for a cool ₹18 crore, he’s the highest-earning captain in IPL 2025. It’s a figure that makes you sit up and take notice, especially when you consider he’s the only overseas skipper this season. Last year, SRH shelled out ₹20.5 crore to snag him, and though his salary took a slight dip, it’s still a hefty sum that reflects his value.
Watching Cummins last season was a treat. He turned SRH into a fearless unit, guiding them to the IPL 2024 final with a style that screamed confidence. I remember chatting with a friend during that campaign—he said, “Cummins doesn’t just bowl; he leads like he’s got a point to prove.” And prove it he did. With his sharp captaincy and those searing yorkers, he’s earned every rupee of that ₹18 crore. For SRH, it’s not just about the money—it’s about banking on a proven winner who’s tasted success on the global stage, from the ODI World Cup to the World Test Championship.
Axar Patel: The ₹16.5 Crore Homegrown Hero
Next up is Axar Patel, the Delhi Capitals’ new captain, clocking in at ₹16.5 crore. Now, I’ll admit, when DC named him skipper, I raised an eyebrow. Rishabh Pant’s departure to Lucknow Super Giants left big shoes to fill, and Axar wasn’t the obvious choice—not with KL Rahul in the squad. But the more I thought about it, the more it made sense. Axar’s been the heartbeat of DC since 2019, delivering with bat, ball, and that cool-headed vibe you can’t teach.
That ₹16.5 crore retention fee? It’s a nod to his consistency. Last season, he smashed 235 runs and grabbed 11 wickets, all while keeping things tight with an economy rate of 7.65. I’ve seen him play live once, and what struck me was his calm—like he’s playing a chess game while everyone else is scrambling. Leading DC won’t be easy, but at ₹16.5 crore, he’s a bargain for a team desperate to finally lift that elusive trophy.
Ruturaj Gaikwad and Sanju Samson: The ₹18 Crore Tie
Here’s where it gets interesting. Ruturaj Gaikwad (Chennai Super Kings) and Sanju Samson (Rajasthan Royals) are tied at ₹18 crore, matching Cummins’ paycheck but with a different flavor. Ruturaj’s journey fascinates me—he went from being MS Dhoni’s understudy to the man in charge at CSK. Last year, he led them to seven wins in 14 games, narrowly missing the playoffs. That ₹18 crore retention feels like a vote of confidence, doesn’t it? It’s CSK saying, “You’re our guy, now go win it.”
Sanju Samson, meanwhile, is RR’s rock. He’s been captain since 2021, taking them to the 2022 final, and that ₹18 crore reflects his growth. I’ve always admired Sanju’s flair—those lofted cover drives are poetry—but it’s his leadership that’s matured. With Rahul Dravid now in the RR dugout, I can’t help but wonder: will this be Sanju’s year? Both he and Ruturaj, at ₹18 crore, are bets on youth and potential, and I’m rooting for them to shine.
Shubman Gill: The ₹16.5 Crore Prodigy
Shubman Gill, Gujarat Titans’ captain, also sits at ₹16.5 crore, tying with Axar. Gill’s story is one of loyalty—he took a pay cut to ensure GT could retain Rashid Khan, dropping from a potential auction windfall to this still-impressive figure. Last season, his first as captain, wasn’t stellar—GT finished eighth—but there’s something about Gill that screams future star.
I met a GT fan at a local match once, and he said, “Gill’s got that Kohli-esque hunger.” I see it too—his technique, his poise. At ₹16.5 crore, GT’s banking on him to bounce back. It’s a big ask for a young leader, but if anyone can handle it, it’s Shubman.
Hardik Pandya: The ₹16.35 Crore Maverick
Hardik Pandya’s ₹16.35 crore deal with Mumbai Indians is a tale of loyalty and redemption. After a rocky 2024 season where MI finished last, you’d think they’d hesitate. Nope—they doubled down. Hardik’s a five-time IPL champion as a player, and his ₹16.35 crore retention shows MI believes he can reclaim that magic as captain.
I’ve got mixed feelings here. Hardik’s electric—he can change a game in an over—but last year’s captaincy flak left a mark. Fans booed, critics pounced. Yet, at ₹16.35 crore, MI’s saying, “We trust you.” It’s a gamble, and I’m curious to see if he’ll silence the doubters.
Shreyas Iyer: The ₹26.75 Crore Auction King
Now, Shreyas Iyer’s a different beast. Punjab Kings snapped him up for ₹26.75 crore at the auction, making him the second-highest earner among captains. Fresh off leading Kolkata Knight Riders to the 2024 title, Shreyas is a proven winner. That price tag? It’s the market speaking—teams know he delivers.
I love Shreyas’ vibe—calm yet commanding. Reuniting with Ricky Ponting at PBKS feels like fate, doesn’t it? They reached the 2020 final together at DC. At ₹26.75 crore, he’s not just a captain—he’s a statement of intent for a franchise chasing its first title.
Rishabh Pant: The ₹27 Crore Record-Breaker
Rishabh Pant tops the overall earnings chart at ₹27 crore, the most expensive buy in IPL history, now captaining Lucknow Super Giants. When LSG grabbed him, my jaw dropped. Pant’s a whirlwind—fearless, unpredictable—and his ₹27 crore price reflects that x-factor.
He led DC for years, with mixed results (24 wins, 19 losses), but his energy is unmatched. I once saw him smash a six off a yorker, and the crowd lost it. At ₹27 crore, LSG’s betting big on his charisma and bat. Can he justify it? I think he’s got the guts to try.
Rajat Patidar: The ₹11 Crore Dark Horse
Rajat Patidar’s ₹11 crore deal with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is the surprise package. Named captain over Virat Kohli, he’s a bold choice. Retained for ₹11 crore, Rajat’s got no IPL captaincy experience, but his 799 runs in 28 games for RCB show promise.
I’ll be honest—this feels risky. RCB’s trophy drought is legendary, and handing the reins to a rookie? Gutsy. But there’s something refreshing about it—like a new chapter. At ₹11 crore, he’s a steal if he pulls it off.
Ajinkya Rahane: The ₹1.5 Crore Veteran
Finally, Ajinkya Rahane rounds out the list at ₹1.5 crore, leading Kolkata Knight Riders. Yep, you read that right—₹1.5 crore. KKR picked him up at the auction, and while it’s the lowest captain’s salary, Rahane’s experience is priceless. He’s led in 25 IPL games before, and at 36, he’s got that old-school grit.
I’ve always respected Rahane—he’s understated but effective. KKR’s gamble here is fascinating. Can he defend their title on a budget? At ₹1.5 crore, it’s the ultimate underdog story.
What It All Means for IPL 2025
So, there’s the countdown—Pat Cummins at ₹18 crore, Axar Patel at ₹16.5 crore, and a mix of big bucks and bargains beyond. But here’s the thing: money doesn’t hit sixes or take wickets. It’s about how these captains wield their squads. Cummins has SRH’s firepower, Axar has DC’s balance, and the rest? They’ve got their own battles.
I can’t help but feel this season’s different. With five new captains and mega auction reshuffles, it’s a reset. Will the high rollers like Pant and Iyer dominate, or will the underdogs like Rahane and Patidar surprise us? I’m betting on a mix of both—because that’s the IPL for you: unpredictable, thrilling, and worth every rupee.
As March 22 nears, I’ll be glued to my screen, cheering for my favorites and marveling at the drama. What about you? Who’s your pick to shine? Let’s see how this earnings countdown plays out on the pitch.
Also Read –
Adam Gilchrist Warns Australian Star Of IPL Pressure As Slump Threatens Career