Cricket’s global popularity translates into substantial earnings for top players. With significant salary increases from lucrative IPL contracts, this article highlights the world’s highest-paid cricketers of 2024. Let’s explore the factors contributing to their impressive salaries.
Kane Williamson – $24.3 Million
Kane Williamson, known for his humility and leadership, has captained New Zealand since 2016. The fastest New Zealander to reach 6,000 Test runs, he also leads the ICC Test Rankings. Williamson, who guided New Zealand to its first Test Championship win, earns $24.3 million annually, including his contract with Gujarat Titans in the IPL.
Jasprit Bumrah – $24.6 Million
Jasprit Bumrah celebrated for his precision yorkers and adaptability, has been a cornerstone for Mumbai Indians in the IPL. His ability to perform under diverse conditions makes him indispensable. As an A+ BCCI-contracted player, Bumrah earns $24.6 million annually.
Trent Boult – $24.9 Million
Following the top batters, we spotlight Trent Boult, New Zealand’s premier bowler. Known for his versatility and skill across all game phases, Boult is also an agile fielder. Despite selective appearances for New Zealand, his consistent impact in global T20 leagues, particularly the IPL, keeps him in the spotlight. Boult’s annual income stands at $24.9 million.
Jos Buttler – $25.2 Million
Jos Buttler, England’s white-ball captain, has gained global acclaim, especially through the IPL. Known for his explosive batting, he scored an impressive 863 runs, including four centuries, in the 2022 season with Rajasthan Royals. Buttler also holds the record for most keeper catches in an innings and led England to victory in the 2022 T20 World Cup.
Rohit Sharma – $25.8 Million
Indian captain Rohit Sharma, renowned for his powerful ODI batting, stands sixth with an annual income of $25.8 million. He holds the unique feat of scoring three double centuries in ODIs and five centuries in T20Is. Sharma is also second only to Virat Kohli in T20I runs and has played the most T20I matches.
David Warner – $26.1 Million
David Warner, a notable cricket star, recently retired from Test cricket yet continues to excel in shorter formats. With an annual income of $26.1 million, Warner’s earnings are bolstered by participation in global T20 leagues, including the IPL. Formerly captain of Sunrisers Hyderabad and currently with Delhi Capitals, Warner holds the record for the most 50+ scores in IPL, surpassing Virat Kohli.
Steve Smith – $27.4 Million
Steven Smith, a Test cricket legend, boasts an annual income of $27.4 million, despite not participating in the IPL this year. He is the fastest player to reach 8,000 Test runs and is nearing 10,000 runs overall. Smith has captained Australia in all formats, highlighting his exceptional caliber and significant earnings.
Mitchell Starc – $28.7 Million
Mitchell Starc, renowned for his speed and accuracy, has an annual income of $28.7 million. In the IPL 2024 auction, he signed a $2.97 million deal with Kolkata Knight Riders, surpassing Pat Cummins. Starc is the fastest bowler to reach 200 ODI wickets and is also a valuable lower-order batsman, having previously played for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).
Pat Cummins – $29.5 Million
Next is Pat Cummins, the captain of the 2023 World Cup-winning team, earning an impressive $29.5 million annually. His popularity surged following the World Cup victory over India, making him a prime target for IPL teams. In the IPL 2024 auction, Cummins became the second most expensive player, just behind Mitchell Starc.
Virat Kohli – $36.2 Million
Virat Kohli, a Grade A+ BCCI player, earns an impressive $36.2 million annually from IPL and match fees. As a key player for Royal Challengers Bangalore, he has become a global cricket icon, holding records for the highest T20I run-scorer, fastest to 13,000 ODI runs, and most T20 fifties, reflecting his immense commercial appeal.
