Cricket leagues worldwide have experienced massive financial growth in recent years, fueled by record-breaking media rights, high-value sponsorships, rising franchise valuations, and expanding global viewership. What was once a sport-driven competition has now become a multi-billion-dollar entertainment industry.
Among all professional tournaments, one cricket league stands tall as the richest in the world, leading in revenue, brand value, and player earnings. This article examines which league tops the list, the core reasons behind its financial success, and how it compares with other major cricket leagues worldwide.
Top 11 Richest Cricket Leagues In The World
Here are the top 11 richest cricket leagues, ranked based on revenue generation, player salaries, and broadcast deals.
| League | Country | Format | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indian Premier League | India | T20 | USD 9.6 billion |
| International League T20 | UAE | T20 | USD 15 million |
| SA20 | South Africa | T20 | USD 12.5 million |
| Big Bash League | Australia | T20 | USD 10 million |
| The Hundred | England | 100-ball | USD 9 million |
| Major League Cricket | USA | T20 | USD 6.9 million |
| Pakistan Super League | Pakistan | T20 | USD 5.7 million |
| Bangladesh Premier League | Bangladesh | T20 | USD 4.8 million |
| Caribbean Premier League | West Indies | T20 | USD 4.6 million |
| Lanka Premier League | Sri Lanka | T20 | USD 3.1 million |
| Abu Dhabi T10 League | UAE | T10 | USD 2.5 million |
Now that the top 11 richest cricket leagues have been identified, let’s look at the factors that have contributed to their rise as the world’s wealthiest cricket competitions.
1. Indian Premier League
The Indian Premier League was launched in 2008 by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The tournament is played in a T20 format and features city-based franchises.
Since its inception, the IPL has expanded steadily and currently consists of 10 teams. The league is held annually and runs for around two months.
Key Financial and Commercial Highlights
- Revenue Generation:
The IPL generates revenue through central sponsorships, franchise fees, ticket sales, and digital partnerships. It is the highest-earning cricket league globally, with annual revenues far exceeding those of other T20 leagues. - Broadcast Deals:
The IPL secured a record-breaking media rights deal for the 2023–2027 cycle, valued at over USD 6 billion. Matches are broadcast across television and digital platforms, contributing significantly to the league’s overall valuation. - Player Salaries:
The auction-based system allows franchises to bid competitively for players. Top players earn salaries exceeding INR 20 crore per season, making the IPL the most lucrative league for cricketers. - Commercial Growth:
The league has attracted long-term sponsorships from major global and Indian brands. Title sponsorships, team partnerships, and in-stadium advertising form a key part of its commercial structure. - Brand Value:
The IPL is valued at over USD 10 billion, with several franchises individually valued at over USD 1 billion. Its global reach and consistent viewership have positioned it as the most valuable cricket league in the world.
2. International League T20
The International League T20 (ILT20) was launched in 2023 by the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB). The tournament is played in a T20 format and is based in the United Arab Emirates.
The league features six franchises and is positioned in the January–February window on the global cricket calendar.
Key Financial and Commercial Highlights
- Revenue Generation:
ILT20 generates revenue through franchise ownership fees, sponsorship agreements, ticket sales, and central commercial partnerships. While still in its early stages, the league has attracted steady investment from the outset. - Broadcast Deals:
The league has secured multi-platform broadcast coverage, including television and digital streaming, ensuring visibility across key cricketing markets. Broadcast revenue forms a growing share of ILT20’s commercial income. - Player Salaries:
ILT20 offers competitive player salaries, particularly for international cricketers. Several overseas players earn contracts comparable to mid-tier T20 leagues, making it an attractive option during the global winter season. - Commercial Growth:
Backed by strong ownership groups, including IPL-linked franchises, ILT20 has benefited from established commercial networks and sponsorship interest. The league continues to expand its brand partnerships each season. - Brand Value:
Although relatively new, ILT20 has built a stable commercial identity. Its strategic scheduling, international player presence, and UAE-based infrastructure have helped position it as an emerging league in the global T20 ecosystem.
3. SA20
SA20 was launched in 2023 by Cricket South Africa. The tournament is played in a T20 format and features six city-based franchises.
The league is held during the January–February window and was introduced to strengthen South Africa’s domestic cricket structure through a franchise-based model.
Key Financial and Commercial Highlights
- Revenue Generation:
SA20 earns revenue through franchise ownership, central sponsorships, ticket sales, and commercial partnerships. Strong local support and consistent stadium attendance have contributed to its early financial stability. - Broadcast Deals:
The league has secured domestic and international broadcast agreements, ensuring wide coverage across multiple markets. Broadcast rights form a significant portion of SA20’s commercial income. - Player Salaries:
SA20 offers competitive player contracts, particularly for domestic players and overseas professionals. While salaries are lower than the IPL, they remain attractive compared to several other T20 leagues. - Commercial Growth:
All six franchises are owned by IPL-affiliated groups, which has helped SA20 leverage existing commercial networks, sponsorship models, and operational experience from established leagues. - Brand Value:
Despite being a relatively new tournament, SA20 has built a strong brand presence. The combination of recognizable franchise identities, competitive cricket, and consistent scheduling has supported its rapid commercial growth.
4. Big Bash League
The Big Bash League was launched in 2011 by Cricket Australia. The tournament is played in a T20 format and features eight city-based franchises.
It is held annually during the Australian summer, primarily between December and February, and has become a key fixture in Australia’s domestic cricket calendar.
Key Financial and Commercial Highlights
- Revenue Generation:
The BBL generates revenue through broadcast rights, sponsorships, ticket sales, and merchandise. Strong domestic viewership and consistent fan attendance have contributed to its financial stability over multiple seasons. - Broadcast Deals:
The league has secured long-term broadcast agreements with Australian television networks and digital platforms. These deals form the backbone of the BBL’s commercial structure and ensure wide national coverage. - Player Salaries:
Player salaries in the BBL are centrally regulated, with a structured salary cap system. While individual contracts are lower than the IPL, the league provides stable earnings for domestic players and selective overseas signings. - Commercial Growth:
The BBL has benefited from strong grassroots engagement and family-oriented marketing. Expansion into digital platforms and increased international broadcasting have supported its commercial growth. - Brand Value:
The Big Bash League has established a strong brand within Australia, driven by consistent scheduling, recognizable franchises, and broad audience appeal. It remains one of the most valuable T20 leagues outside India.
5. The Hundred
The Hundred was launched in 2021 by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). The tournament uses a 100-ball format and features eight city-based teams.
It is held annually during the English summer and includes both men’s and women’s competitions running alongside each other.
Key Financial and Commercial Highlights
- Revenue Generation:
The Hundred generates revenue through broadcast rights, central sponsorships, ticket sales, and franchise investment. The league was designed to attract new audiences and increase commercial returns for English cricket. The ECB sold stakes in six teams to private investors last year to boost their earnings. - Broadcast Deals:
The tournament has secured strong broadcast agreements with free-to-air and subscription-based television partners, ensuring wide reach across the UK. Digital streaming has further expanded its audience base. - Player Salaries:
Player contracts in The Hundred are structured through a draft system with set salary bands. While salaries are lower than the IPL, the league provides competitive earnings for both domestic and international players. - Commercial Growth:
The Hundred has benefited from heavy marketing, accessible match formats, and prime-time scheduling. The introduction of private investment into franchises has further strengthened its commercial outlook. - Brand Value:
The league has quickly established a recognizable brand, supported by strong broadcast visibility and its dual men’s and women’s format. It is considered a key commercial property in English cricket.
6. Major League Cricket
Major League Cricket was launched in 2023 by USA Cricket. The tournament is played in a T20 format and was introduced to establish a professional franchise-based cricket league in the United States.
The league features city-based teams and is held during the northern hemisphere summer.
Key Financial and Commercial Highlights
- Revenue Generation:
MLC generates revenue through franchise investments, sponsorship deals, ticket sales, and central commercial partnerships. The league has benefited from early-stage investment and interest from cricket stakeholders in the US market. - Broadcast Deals:
The tournament has secured broadcast and digital streaming arrangements to reach both domestic and international audiences. These deals have helped MLC gain visibility in established cricketing regions as well as in emerging markets. - Player Salaries:
MLC offers competitive contracts, particularly for international players. While overall salary levels remain below top-tier leagues like the IPL, the league provides attractive short-term opportunities for overseas professionals. - Commercial Growth:
The league has seen steady commercial development, supported by IPL-linked ownership groups and infrastructure investment in cricket-specific venues in the United States. - Brand Value:
As a developing league, MLC is focused on long-term growth. Its presence in a large sports market, combined with structured investment and international participation, positions it as a league with future commercial potential.
7. Pakistan Super League
The Pakistan Super League was launched in 2016 by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). The tournament is played in a T20 format and currently features six franchises.
Initially hosted in the UAE, the PSL has gradually shifted to Pakistan, with matches now played across multiple home venues each season. The PCB added two new teams to the league for the 2026 season through a bidding process.
Key Financial and Commercial Highlights
- Revenue Generation:
The PSL generates revenue through franchise fees, central sponsorships, ticket sales, and commercial partnerships. The league has shown steady financial growth despite operational and logistical challenges in its early years. - Broadcast Deals:
The PSL has secured domestic and international broadcast agreements, ensuring coverage across major cricketing regions. Media rights form a significant portion of the league’s overall revenue. - Player Salaries:
Player contracts in the PSL are structured across multiple salary categories. While salaries are lower than the IPL, the league offers competitive earnings for both domestic players and overseas professionals. - Commercial Growth:
The league has benefited from improved infrastructure, increased local attendance, and growing sponsor confidence since returning to home venues. Expansion in digital viewership has also contributed to its commercial development. - Brand Value:
The PSL has established itself as Pakistan’s premier franchise tournament. Consistent scheduling, strong fan support, and the development of local talent have helped maintain its position among the leading T20 leagues globally.
8. Bangladesh Premier League
The Bangladesh Premier League was launched in 2012 by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). The tournament is played in a T20 format and features multiple city-based franchises.
The league is typically held during the winter season in Bangladesh and has undergone several structural changes since its inception.
Key Financial and Commercial Highlights
- Revenue Generation:
The BPL generates revenue through franchise fees, sponsorship agreements, ticket sales, and central commercial partnerships. Financial performance has varied across seasons due to changes in ownership structures and operational models. - Broadcast Deals:
The league has secured domestic broadcast agreements, with selected international coverage. Broadcast rights contribute to the league’s overall revenue, though at a lower scale compared to top-tier T20 leagues. - Player Salaries:
Player salaries in the BPL are generally lower than leagues such as the IPL and BBL. However, the tournament provides opportunities for domestic players and attracts overseas professionals seeking match exposure. - Commercial Growth:
The BPL has experienced periods of growth and restructuring. Improved governance and operational planning in recent seasons have aimed to strengthen its commercial stability. - Brand Value:
The BPL remains an important domestic league for Bangladesh cricket. While its global brand value is modest, the league plays a key role in talent development and fan engagement within the country.
9. Caribbean Premier League
The Caribbean Premier League was launched in 2013 by Cricket West Indies. The tournament is played in a T20 format and features franchises representing various Caribbean nations.
It is typically held between August and September and is a key fixture in the West Indies cricket calendar.
Key Financial and Commercial Highlights
- Revenue Generation:
The CPL generates revenue through sponsorships, broadcast rights, ticket sales, and central commercial partnerships. The league benefits from strong regional support and international interest due to its timing and entertainment-driven approach. - Broadcast Deals:
The CPL has secured broadcast agreements across the Caribbean and in key international markets. These deals provide steady exposure, although broadcast revenues are lower compared to larger leagues. - Player Salaries:
Player salaries in the CPL are competitive for a mid-tier T20 league. The tournament attracts international players, particularly those not engaged in overlapping global leagues, while also providing opportunities for regional talent. - Commercial Growth:
The CPL has built a distinct identity through fan engagement, cultural elements, and consistent scheduling. Partnerships with global brands and digital platforms have supported its commercial sustainability. - Brand Value:
The CPL holds a strong brand presence within the Caribbean and maintains international recognition. While its overall financial value is lower than top-tier leagues, it remains a stable and well-established T20 competition.
10. Lanka Premier League
The Lanka Premier League was launched in 2020 by Sri Lanka Cricket. The tournament is played in a T20 format and features franchise-based teams representing different regions.
The league is usually held during the mid-year window and was introduced to strengthen Sri Lanka’s domestic cricket structure through a professional league system.
Key Financial and Commercial Highlights
- Revenue Generation:
The LPL generates revenue through franchise fees, sponsorship agreements, ticket sales, and central commercial partnerships. As a developing league, its revenue base remains modest compared to longer-established tournaments. - Broadcast Deals:
The league has secured domestic broadcast agreements along with limited international coverage. Broadcast rights contribute to overall revenue, though on a smaller scale relative to major T20 leagues. - Player Salaries:
Player salaries in the LPL are lower than those in top-tier leagues. The tournament primarily focuses on providing opportunities for domestic players, while also attracting overseas professionals seeking regular playing time. - Commercial Growth:
The LPL has shown gradual commercial progress through improved organization and increased participation from international players. Stability in scheduling has supported its ongoing development. - Brand Value:
The LPL continues to build its identity as Sri Lanka’s primary franchise league. While its global brand value is still developing, it plays an important role in player development and fan engagement within the country.
11. Abu Dhabi T10 League
The Abu Dhabi T10 League, launched in 2017, is a UAE-based franchise tournament played in the fast-paced T10 format. Held annually between November and December, it features six teams and attracts both international and domestic players.
The league is known for its short match duration and high-scoring games, making it popular with fans and broadcasters. Its compact format allows multiple matches to be completed in a single day.
Key Financial and Commercial Highlights
- Revenue Generation:
The Abu Dhabi T10 League generates revenue primarily through sponsorships, franchise partnerships, broadcasting rights, and on-ground advertising. Its compact format allows multiple matches per day, increasing commercial inventory and sponsor visibility. - Broadcast Deals:
The league is broadcast across international television networks and digital platforms, helping it reach a global audience. Broadcast partnerships play a key role in expanding the league’s visibility beyond the UAE. - Player Salaries:
Player earnings are managed through a draft system, with an average salary of around USD 25,000. Minimum wages start at USD 5,000, while top-category players earn between USD 50,000 and USD 100,000, depending on demand and negotiations. - Commercial Growth:
Since its launch, the league has seen steady commercial growth, attracting international players, sponsors, and broadcasters. The fast-paced T10 format and short tournament window make it appealing to both fans and commercial partners. - Brand Value:
The Abu Dhabi T10 League has an estimated valuation of approximately USD 2.5 million. Its unique format, growing global reach, and association with top international cricketers continue to strengthen its brand presence in the cricketing ecosystem.
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Conclusion: IPL is the Richest League in the World!
Franchise-based cricket leagues have become a major part of the modern cricket economy, driven by broadcast rights, sponsorships, franchise investments, and global viewership. While the Indian Premier League clearly leads in terms of financial value and commercial reach, other leagues such as ILT20, SA20, Big Bash League, and The Hundred have established themselves as stable and sustainable competitions within their respective markets.
Mid-tier and emerging leagues like the PSL, BPL, CPL, and LPL continue to play an important role in regional development, talent exposure, and fan engagement. Each league operates within its own financial and structural limits, contributing to the broader global cricket ecosystem. Together, these tournaments highlight how the franchise model has reshaped the commercial landscape of the sport.
FAQs
The Indian Premier League (IPL) is the richest cricket league in the world in terms of revenue, broadcast deals, and overall brand value.
The IPL benefits from a large market size, record-breaking media rights deals, high franchise valuations, strong sponsorship backing, and global viewership.
Yes, both leagues have shown strong early commercial growth, supported by strategic scheduling, franchise ownership models, and broadcast partnerships.
While their revenues are lower, these leagues are important for domestic player development, regional fan engagement, and maintaining competitive cricket structures.
At present, no other league is close to matching the IPL’s financial scale. However, continued growth in emerging markets could narrow the gap over time.
