When a country dominates a whole sport, it goes without saying that the teams that play there and form their domestic league will be some of the most popular, but also valuable. The same is true across the sports world, like with the NBA (USA and Canada) teams in Basketball, or the top European football clubs, mainly those in the Premier League (England) and Spain (La Liga). In the case of cricket, it is without any doubt India, the country that swears by the sport and has it as an integral part of its culture and tradition. But just how much more are IPL teams bigger than their competition elsewhere in the world?
India Dominates the World
In short, Indian Premier League teams are considerably more valuable than those from any other cricketing country and are in a league of their own. Australia, England, New Zealand, and not even the United Arab Emirates have teams that are comparable in value to those from the Indian Subcontinent. Nobody else can truly match them yet, and the reasons for this are many, including TV rights, sponsorship money, fan base size, and player salaries and league revenue. It is also where betting on cricket is the most popular, with sportsbooks like 10CRIC INDIA leading the way.
The IPL outperforms every other cricket league in all four of these areas. The media rights deals alone are worth billions of dollars, while certain franchises we will talk about are valued between $150 and $270 million. Closest comparisons outside of India are the Big Bash League in Australia and their Sydney Sixers, Pakistan Super League with Lahore Qualandars, and the Hundred in England, with the Oval Invincibles. However, these teams are valued between $20 and $40 million, so even the strongest of them are much as 5-10 times less valuable than IPL.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)
Royal Challengers Bengaluru is the most valuable cricket franchise in the world in 2025, with a brand value of approximately $269 million. This record is largely due to their first ever IPL title win in 2025. Founded in 2008 and based in Bengaluru, Karnataka, RCB is owned by Royal Challengers Sports Private Ltd (part of United Spirits/Diageo) and plays home games at the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, one of the finest grounds in the world.
Long beloved for its passionate fan base and star power, the team had years of near misses before finally clinching the title under captain Rajat Patidar. The success ended an 18 year wait and captivated fans worldwide. The current squad is a mix of experience and firepower with superstars and legends such as Virat Kohli, fan favorite Devdutt Padikkal, and dynamic all rounders like Tim David and Krunal Pandya leading the charge. RCB is a global cricket brand and commercial powerhouse recognized wherever the sport is popular.
Mumbai Indians (MI)
The Mumbai Indians stand as one of the most iconic and valuable teams in franchise cricket. They currently have an estimated brand value of around $242 million. The team was founded in 2008 and is owned by Indiawin Sports, a subsidiary of Reliance Industries, with its base of operations in Mumbai, Maharashtra, at the historic Wankhede Stadium. The team has a storied legacy of success as the most decorated IPL franchise with five championship titles.
They are renowned for their depth, consistency, and ability to nurture talent. Hardik Pandya is the captain and Mahela Jayawardene is his coach, while the roster features seasoned performers like stalwart batter Rohit Sharma, elegant hitter Surya Kumar Yadav, and superb talents like Ryan Rickelton and Will Jacks. Experience, youth, and a strong corporate backing are the recipe that makes MI an enduring powerhouse and one of cricket’s most valuable global brands.
Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
CSK is one of cricket’s most respected and successful franchises, valued at more than $235 million for the new 2026 season. Like many others, the team was founded in 2008. It is owned by Chennai Super Kings Cricket Limited and is based in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. The Super Kings play their matches at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium. Known for their consistency and smart team building, CSK have clinched five IPL titles, meaning they are tied with MI for the most in league history.
Legendary captain MS Dhoni has been their leader for many years, while stars like Ruturaj Gaikwad, all round talent Shivam Dube, and bowler Matheesha Pathirana complete the superstar roster. Their loyal fan base, disciplined culture, and sustained commercial success help keep them near the top of global cricket valuations, helping them nurture one of the sport’s most iconic brands.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
Kolkata Knight Riders have an estimated brand value of roughly $222 million. Based in Kolkata, West Bengal, KKR is co owned by Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, actress Juhi Chawla, and her husband Jay Mehta, who wisely combine entertainment and sport in one powerful package. The team plays its home fixtures at the legendary Eden Gardens, one of cricket’s most storied venues.
KKR has won three IPL titles and has a passionate fan base that appreciates their flair and competitive edge. Stars like Andre Russell provide firepower, while Rinku Singh, Quinton de Kock, and Ajinkya Rahane contribute balance. The combination of star appeal, strong performance, and savvy marketing, like investing in other leagues, keeps the Knight Rider brand atop of the cricketing world.