Blog

When you tune in to watch the Indian Premier League (IPL), it’s not just the crack of the bat or the roar of the crowd that captivates you. It’s also the electrifying commentary, the insightful analysis, and the passionate energy that flows from the voices behind the mic. But have you ever paused mid-innings and wondered, “How much do IPL commentators actually make?” Well, let’s pull back the curtain and take a behind-the-scenes look at the world of IPL commentator salaries.

The Glamorous Yet Grueling World of IPL Commentary

IPL commentary is a blend of entertainment, sports expertise, and real-time analysis. It demands an understanding of the game, a flair for words, and often, the ability to seamlessly switch between English, Hindi, or regional languages. With over 100 million viewers glued to their screens each season, being an IPL commentator is no small gig—and neither is the paycheck.

IPL Commentator Salary: Breaking It Down

The salary of an IPL commentator can vary widely based on several factors: experience, popularity, language proficiency, and former cricketing background. Let’s break it down by category to get a clearer picture.

1. Elite International Commentators

These are the big names—former cricket legends or globally renowned voices who lend star power to the broadcast. Think Ian Bishop, Michael Slater, or Danny Morrison. Their commentary not only adds gravitas but also appeals to a global audience.

Estimated Salary: $2,000 to $3,000 per match (approximately INR 1.5 to 2.5 lakhs).

Annual Earnings: Around INR 50 lakhs to INR 1 crore, depending on the number of matches covered.

2. Indian Cricket Legends

Big Indian names like Sunil Gavaskar, Ravi Shastri, and Harsha Bhogle command top-tier fees. Their deep knowledge of Indian cricket, fluent delivery, and fan following put them in high demand.

Estimated Salary: INR 2.5 to 4 lakhs per match.

Annual Earnings: INR 1 crore and above.

3. Regional Language Commentators

With the IPL broadcasting in multiple regional languages, there’s a growing demand for commentators fluent in Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Marathi, and Bengali. While they may not earn as much as the elite panel, their role is crucial for engaging local audiences.

Estimated Salary: INR 25,000 to 75,000 per match.

Annual Earnings: INR 10 to 30 lakhs, depending on matches and language popularity.

4. Studio Analysts and Presenters

While not technically commentators, these individuals appear in pre-match, mid-innings, and post-match segments. They provide expert opinions, predictions, and match breakdowns.

Estimated Salary: INR 1 to 2 lakhs per episode.

Annual Earnings: INR 25 to 60 lakhs, based on appearances and network contracts.

Here’s an updated look at the salaries of 10 prominent IPL 2025 commentators, spanning English, Hindi, and regional language panels:

🎙️ Top 10 IPL 2025 Commentators and Their Salaries

Note: Salary figures are approximate and based on available reports.

These figures highlight the significant earnings of IPL commentators, reflecting their expertise and the league’s global appeal If you’d like more details on other commentators or specific panels, feel free to ask!

🎙️ Full IPL 2025 Commentators List | Complete List of Hindi English and Other Regionals Commentators

Here’s a rundown of the IPL 2025 commentators, both for English and regional language broadcasts:

🏏 English Panel:

• Harsha Bhogle
• Sunil Gavaskar
• Ravi Shastri
• Matthew Hayden
• Ian Bishop
• Kevin Pietersen
• Graeme Swann
• Danny Morrison
• Lisa Sthalekar
• Scott Styris
• Tom Moody

🏏 Hindi Panel:

• Aakash Chopra
• Irfan Pathan
• Jatin Sapru
• Mohammad Kaif
• Sanjay Bangar
• Vivek Razdan
• Navjot Singh Siddhu

🏏 Regional Language Commentators (Selected):

• Murali Kartik (Tamil)
• Deep Dasgupta (Bengali)
• VVS Laxman (Telugu)
• Kiran More (Gujarati)
• Abhinav Mukund (Tamil)
• RP Singh (Hindi & regional crossover)

Note: Language-based commentary continues to grow, especially with regional fan bases booming, adding to the diversity and salary packages in the IPL broadcast setup.

Factors Influencing IPL Commentator Salary

So what exactly determines how much an IPL commentator earns? Let’s unpack a few key drivers:

1. Experience & Expertise

Naturally, someone like Sunil Gavaskar or Harsha Bhogle, who’ve been in the business for decades, commands a higher fee than a newcomer.

2. Language Skills

Multilingual commentators often have an edge. Those who can flip between English and Hindi, or regional languages, are especially valued.

3. Former Cricketer vs. Career Commentator

Former players often get paid more due to their firsthand insights. However, career broadcasters like Harsha Bhogle, with no professional cricket background, prove that charisma and knowledge can be just as valuable.

4. Network Affiliation

Star Sports, JioCinema, and other broadcasters have different budget allocations. A commentator’s earnings can vary depending on which network hires them.

5. Match Volume

More matches = more money. Simple math, right?

The Business of Cricket Commentary

Here’s where it gets even more interesting. Commentary isn’t just about love for the game anymore. It’s a full-fledged career with brand endorsements, social media fame, and even podcasting gigs riding on it. Some commentators have turned their popularity into personal brands, which further boosts their income streams.

Not Just Money: The Perks of Being an IPL Commentator

Besides the financial perks, there are other benefits too:

• Travel and accommodation at top-tier hotels.
• Access to players and behind-the-scenes action.
• Opportunities to build a global fan base.
• Brand collaborations and endorsement deals.

It’s an enviable gig for those who can mix cricket smarts with showbiz flair.

Challenges Behind the Glamour

Of course, it’s not all rosy. Being a commentator in the IPL requires:

• Long hours of prep for each match.
• Constant travel and erratic schedules.
• Staying updated with cricket stats and trends.
• Dealing with on-air slip-ups and instant public feedback.

Commentators also face stiff competition. With so many ex-cricketers trying their hand at broadcasting, staying relevant takes serious hustle.

The Evolving Landscape: Digital, AI & More

The commentary space is also evolving. With the rise of digital streaming platforms like JioCinema offering free IPL streaming, there’s a whole new game in town. More commentators are being hired to cater to online viewers, short-form content, and bite-sized analysis.

Not to mention, the future may even see AI-powered commentary or virtual co-commentators making an entrance. But human passion, experience, and the unique flavor each commentator brings? That’s irreplaceable.

In Conclusion: Is It Worth It?

So, is being an IPL commentator worth it? Absolutely—if you love cricket, enjoy public speaking, and can bring insight and entertainment together, it might just be your dream job.

The salaries are lucrative, especially for the top tier, and the fame and recognition that come with it are undeniable. From the roaring stadiums to your living room speakers, IPL commentators are the unsung heroes who make the tournament come alive.

Next time you hear one of your favorite voices dissecting a Yorker or chuckling over a dropped catch, remember—they’re not just talking cricket. They’re crafting moments, telling stories, and yes, earning a pretty handsome salary while they’re at it.