Five of the ten teams in the Indian Premier League will be stepping out with the new captain this season. The mega-auction gave them an opportunity to overhaul the entire squad, and infuse a breath of fresh air in the team for the new season. While some franchise retained their captain from the last season, others went into the auction to find their new captain. As a result, there were intense bidding wars between franchises for players like Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant, who bring a wealth of captaincy experience. Let's take a look at the salaries of all the IPL captains.
IPL 2025 Captains And Their Salaries
Rishabh Pant - Lucknow Super Giants
Salary: ₹27 Crore
Rishabh Pant was released by Delhi Capitals ahead of the mega auction for IPL 2025, and he was acquired by Lucknow Super Giants at a whopping sum of ₹27 Crore. Having got rid of KL Rahul, Lucknow were looking for someone to lead the team, and they placed their trust in Pant. His ability to turn games single-handedly—be it with audacious strokeplay or quick thinking behind the stumps—makes him a prized asset. Pant’s stint with Delhi Capitals showcased his knack for inspiring teams, blending youthful exuberance with tactical nous.
Shreyas Iyer - Punjab Kings
Salary: ₹26.75 Crore
Shreyas Iyer led Kolkata Knight Riders to their third IPL title last year, yet the franchise did not retain him. But the Indian batter would not complain, as he joined Punjab Kings at a salary of ₹26.75 Crore, much higher than what he would have received at Kolkata.
Pat Cummins - Sunrisers Hyderabad
Salary: ₹18 Crore
As Australia’s Test and ODI captain, Pat Cummins has led the team to multiple ICC titles and has earned fame for his strategic brilliance and unrelenting work ethic. Under his leadership, Sunrisers Hyderabad reached the final of the IPL 2024, where they lost to Kolkata Knight Riders. Cummins was retained by the franchise at ₹18 Crore.
Ruturaj Gaikwad - Chennai Super Kings
Salary: ₹18 Crore
Ruturaj Gaikwad is a rising star with a mature head on young shoulders. A technically sound batsman, his elegant strokeplay and consistency have made him a fan favourite. Leading Chennai Super Kings, Gaikwad stepped into MS Dhoni’s colossal shoes, showcasing composure beyond his years. His valuation of ₹18 Crore reflects faith in his potential to evolve into a long-term leader.
Sanju Samson - Rajasthan Royals
Salary: ₹18 Crore
As consistency goes, not many can rival Sanju Samson, the captain of Rajasthan Royals. With his explosive batting and inspiring leadership, Samson transformed Rajasthan from perennial losers to title challengers. Samson, who was retained at ₹18 Crore by the franchise, will join the team once he recovers from the injury. In his absence, Riyan Parag will be leading the team.
Axar Patel - Delhi Capitals
Salary: ₹16.5 Crore
It was always a clash between Axar Patel and KL Rahul, and Delhi Capitals showed trust in Patel, who has been with the franchise for a long time now. Patel's stocks have risen in the international circuit as well, and now it's time to prove his leadership credentials. He was retained by Delhi at ₹16.5 Crore.
Shubman Gill - Gujarat Titans
Salary: ₹16.5 Crore
Shubman Gill took over as a captain at Gujarat Titans after Hardik Pandya's departure last season. Gill, the most promising star of Indian cricket, was also appointed as Rohit Sharma's deputy in the ODI cricket. Gill’s elegant strokeplay and ability to anchor innings make him a cornerstone for any side. His international exploits and IPL success signal a long, fruitful career ahead.
Hardik Pandya - Mumbai Indians
Salary: ₹16.35 Crore
Hardik Pandya, the dynamic all-rounder, joined Mumbai Indians (MI) last season as a captain. He will be getting ₹16.35 crore per season. Known for his explosive batting, crafty bowling, and sharp fielding, Pandya brings a wealth of experience to the role. Having previously led Gujarat Titans to an IPL title in 2022 and another final in IPL 2023, his leadership credentials are undeniable. Returning to MI, where he began his IPL journey, Pandya aims to steer the five-time champions to further glory.
Rajat Patidar - Royal Challengers Bangalore
Salary: ₹11 Crore
Royal Challengers Bangalore surprised everyone by naming Rajat Patidar, the stylish right-handed batsman, as their captain for IPL 2025. But for the followers of domestic cricket, Patidar's elevation to captaincy should not have come as a surprise. He brings a wealth of experience, as he is also the captain of Madhya Pradesh.
Ajinkya Rahane - Kolkata Knight Riders
Salary: ₹1.5 Crore
Kolkata Knight Rider's Ajinkya Rahane is the lowest-paid captain in the Indian Premier League 2025. Rahane was bought at a mere ₹1.5 crore by Kolkata, but the modest price shouldn't undermine the expertise he brings to the table. Rahane excels in guiding young squads, relying on his tactical acumen and understated aggression. While not a flashy T20 star, his ability to anchor innings and mentor talent keeps him relevant.
