More Than Just Money: While the financial benefits of the IPL are undeniable, these cricketers agree that the tournament’s greatest offering is the chance to grow as a player, compete at the highest level, and learn from the best
Since its inception in 2008, the Indian Premier League (IPL) has revolutionized cricket, not only in terms of global appeal but also in financial opportunities for players, sportsboom.com reported.
The tournament has witnessed a significant rise in both prize money and player auction prices, enabling domestic cricketers to turn their dreams into reality.
From Lakhs to Crores: The Evolution of IPL Paychecks
In the inaugural edition of the IPL, Rajasthan Royals bagged ₹4.8 crore in prize money. Fast forward to today, and the prize money has increased fivefold, with individual players being auctioned for over ₹25 crore. For many uncapped domestic players who once earned a modest ₹37,000 per Ranji Trophy match, the IPL proved to be a financial windfall.
As the 18th season of the IPL kicks off with a staggering prize pool of ₹20 crore, several domestic cricketers have reflected on how the league transformed their careers and personal lives.
Shreevats Goswami: The First Car Dream
Shreevats Goswami, the Emerging Player Award winner in 2008, found himself in a lucrative position after securing an IPL contract with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) alongside U-19 World Cup-winning captain Virat Kohli.
“We were getting ₹12 lakh each, and along with the ₹10 lakh from the U-19 World Cup, I suddenly had ₹22 lakh in my account. I didn’t know what to do with it, so I bought my first car—a Honda City,” Goswami recalled.
For many, the journey from domestic cricket to the IPL was life-changing—not just in terms of wealth but in shaping their careers and aspirations
Although his IPL opportunities were limited, playing across four franchises—RCB, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Rajasthan Royals, and Sunrisers Hyderabad—Goswami values the friendships he forged with international stars like Kevin Pietersen, Ross Taylor, and David Warner.
Manvinder Bisla: Prioritizing Cricket Over Money
Manvinder Bisla, the hero of the 2012 IPL final for KKR with a match-winning 89 off 48 balls against Chennai Super Kings (CSK), also spent his first paycheck on a car—a blue Maruti Dzire. However, he emphasized that the real value of the IPL lies in the exposure and learning opportunities for domestic cricketers.
“The IPL allowed domestic players to hone their skills by playing with and against international stars. The money was a great incentive, but the platform to improve was even more valuable. Even if you don’t play for India, the IPL ensures financial stability if you perform well,” said Bisla, who amassed 798 runs in 39 IPL matches.
Shadab Jakati: A Home in Goa
For left-arm spinner Shadab Jakati, the IPL earnings meant securing a permanent home for his family in Goa. Having debuted in 2009 with a pay of ₹12 lakh, he was quick to invest in a 2BHK apartment.
“At that time, we didn’t own a house in Goa. My first investment with IPL money was booking a 2BHK. Uncapped players in those days were generally in the ₹10-20 lakh bracket,” said Jakati, who claimed 47 wickets in 59 IPL matches for CSK.
Jakati’s most cherished memory from the IPL was meeting then BCCI president and CSK owner N. Srinivasan, who delivered an inspiring speech when the team struggled in the 2010 season. “His words motivated us, and from there, we turned the season around and won the title,” said Jakati, who also dismissed Sachin Tendulkar in the final.
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