Cricket holds a staggering global following of approximately 2.5 billion enthusiasts, and generates a massive revenue, bringing cricketers are on par with the richest sportsperson in the world.
The way the game is evolving, it is safe to say that we are heading towards a future where cricket could rival football in terms of revenue. Now, let’s delve into the list of the top 10 richest cricketers in the world.
1. Sachin Tendulkar (India)
The legendary Indian cricketer, revered as one of the sport’s finest batsmen, boasts a net worth surpassing $150 million USD. He is the all-time highest run scorer with over 18000 runs and 15000 runs overall in both ODI and Test formats. His cricketing career and various endorsements have significantly contributed to this substantial wealth, placing him at the top of the list of world’s richest cricketers.
2. MS Dhoni (India)
The former Indian captain, often referred to as ‘Captain Cool,’ commands a worldwide net worth of $125 million as of 2023. Dhoni’s savvy leadership and IPL success have propelled his net worth by 32% over recent years. Under Dhoni’s leadership, the Indian cricket team won the 2011 World Cup and he is regarded as one of the greatest cricketers of all time.
3. Virat Kohli (India)
The modern-era batting maestro and former Indian skipper has accrued a net worth of $122 million by 2023. Kohli stands atop India’s highest-earning cricketers, steering the national team and poised to surpass Tendulkar’s records. He recently became the first batter score 50 centuries in ODI cricket.
4. Jacques Kallis (South Africa)
A right-handed all-rounder who amassed over 10,000 runs in both one-day and test matches and took over 250 wickets, Kallis is regarded as a modern-day legend. The retired South African all-rounder’s total net worth estimated at $110 million primarily stems from cricket earnings, IPL contracts, and endorsements. Kallis also co-owns FC Goa in the Indian Super League (ISL).
5. Ricky Ponting (Australia)
An exemplary leader and batsman, Ponting’s net worth is approximately $100 million in 2023. He holds an impressive record for most international cricket wins with 220 victories in 324 matches. Australia have won two World Cups under his leadership. He has scored over 13,000 runs in both Test matches and ODIs.
6. Sourav Ganguly (India)
The influential Indian captain’s net worth stands at $80 million, majorly from cricket income and brand endorsements. Ganguly’s popularity extends globally, and his commentary roles significantly add to his earnings.
7. Brian Lara (West Indies)
The West Indian batting legend, known for numerous records, currently possesses a net worth of $60 million. Lara’s contributions to cricket and coaching duties in the IPL elevate his financial standing. Lara famously holds the record for the highest individual score in First Class and Test cricket with 501* and 400* respectively.
8. Chris Gayle (West Indies)
Renowned for his explosive batting, Gayle’s net worth hovers around $45 million in 2023. His T20 achievements and staggering records across formats underscore his financial success. He is also the only player (to date) to have scored a triple century in Test matches, a double century in ODIs and a century in T20 Internationals.
9. Virender Sehwag (India)
The aggressive Indian batsman, with a net worth of $42 million, etched his name in cricketing history with extraordinary innings, particularly his high-scoring Test performances. Sehwag also holds the distinction of scoring the highest score registered by an Indian in Test cricket, courtesy of his innings of 319 runs against Pakistan in 2006.
10. Shane Watson (Australia)
A handy right arm pace bowler and a dangerous batter at any position – Shan Watson has been a pivotal figure in Australia’s triumphs across ICC tournaments. He was part of Australia’s World Cup winning teams in 2007 and 2015. He stands at a net worth of $40 million in 2023 making him one of the richest cricketers on the globe.
These cricketers, with their unmatched skills and contributions to the sport, have not only shaped cricketing history but also amassed significant wealth through their stellar careers and endorsements.
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