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Dollars Per Six: Who are the Most Valuable Six Hitters in IPL History?

Let’s discuss the most valuable IPL cricketers—with a twist.

In the 17 years of the Indian Premier League (IPL), which batter has provided the best return on investment in terms of hitting sixes? The #1 batter on this list may surprise you!

Let’s find out.

Key Takeaways

  • Chris Gayle (357), Rohit Sharma (257), AB De Villiers (251), MS Dhoni (239), and Virat Kohli (234) have hit the most sixes in the IPL.
  • Ambati Rayudu ($34,442), Chris Gayle ($37,808), Jos Buttler ($43,812), and Andre Russell ($45,430) have the best ratios of dollar per six in IPL history, while Rohit Sharma ($116,381), MS Dhoni ($119,280), and Virat Kohli ($120,470) have been the most expensive buys per six in this list.
  • Andre Russell is just a beast in the frequency of sixes he hits. He takes approximately 6.74 balls per six, that is almost one per over! Russell is comfortably ahead of the other two West Indians on this list—Chris Gayle (9.34), Kieron Pollard (10.39) who are then followed by AB de Villiers (13.56), Yusuf Pathan (14.18), Jos Buttler (14.58), and Shane Watson (14.78).
  • Chris Gayle (2.53), KL Rahul (1.54), and AB De Villiers (1.48) have the best ratio for the most sixes per innings.

Most Sixes in IPL Career

To begin our analysis, here is the list of players with the most number of sixes hit in the IPL.

PlayerInningsSixes
Chris Gayle142357
Rohit Sharma143257
AB de Villiers170251
MS Dhoni218239
Virat Kohli229234
David Warner176226
Kieron Pollard171223
Suresh Raina200203
Andre Russell96193
Shane Watson141190
Sanju Samson148182
Robin Uthappa197182
Ambati Rayudu187173
KL Rahul109168
Glenn Maxwell120158
Yusuf Pathan154158
Jos Buttler95149
Yuvraj Singh126149
Shikhar Dhawan218148

Honorable Mentions: Faf du Plessis – 145, Dinesh Karthik – 139, Nitish Rana – 131, and Brendon McCullum – 130 miss out).

Top 19 Most Valuable Six Hitters in the Indian Premier League (IPL)

*Note: We have limited our analysis to the top 19 six hitters in the IPL (cutoff of 148 sixes).

Also note that before 2014, IPL auctions were held in US dollars. The auctions have been held in INR (Indian Rupees) ever since. For comparison, we have kept everything in $USD. The conversion we used is based on the $US dollar-INR conversation rate on that year (2008-2023) as shown in the table here.

Here is a quick preview of the Top 10 most valuable cricketers by the number of sixes hit versus the salary amount they were purchased at.

Let’s dive in!

1. Ambati Rayudu – 173 Sixes ($34,422 Per Six)

Since it took about $5,955,000 for his 173 sixes, Ambati Rayudu cost his franchises about $34,422 per six in the IPL.

  • Teams: MI, CSK
  • Matches/Innings: 204/187
  • Runs (Balls): 4348 (3409)
  • Strike Rate (Sixes/Fours): 127.54 (173/359)

Average IPL Salary: $425,357 ($5,955,000 over 14 seasons)

  • Number of Balls Per Six: 19.71 (3409/173)
  • Number of Sixes Per Innings: 0.93 (173/187)

Ambati Rayudu’s IPL Salary Over the Years

YearTeamSalarySixes
IPL 2010MI$25,00013
IPL 2011MI$66,0009
IPL 2012MI$66,00014
IPL 2013MI$66,0004
IPL 2014MI$641,000 (INR 4 Crore)8
IPL 2015MI$641,000 (INR 4 Crore)16
IPL 2016MI$641,000 (INR 4 Crore)12
IPL 2017MI$641,000 (INR 4 Crore)3
IPL 2018CSK$346,000 (INR 2.2 Crore)34
IPL 2019CSK$346,000 (INR 2.2 Crore)7
IPL 2020CSK$346,000 (INR 2.2 Crore)12
IPL 2021CSK$346,000 (INR 2.2 Crore)17
IPL 2022CSK$892,000 (INR 6.75 Crore)15
IPL 2023CSK$892,000 (INR 6.75 Crore)9
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2. Chris Gayle – 357 Sixes ($37,808 Per Six)

Since it took $13,497,500 for his 357 sixes, Chris Gayle cost his franchises about $37,808 per six in the IPL.

  • Teams: KKR, RCB, PBKS
  • Matches/Innings: 142/141
  • Runs (Balls): 4965 (3333)
  • Strike Rate (Sixes/Fours): 148.96 (357/404)

Chris Gayle’s Average IPL Salary: $1.038 Million ($13,497,500 over 13 seasons)

  • Number of Balls Per Six: 9.34 (3333/357)
  • Number of Sixes Per Innings: 2.53 (357/141)

Chris Gayle’s IPL Salary Over the Years

*Note: Chris Gayle withdrew from IPL 2008

YearTeamSalaryNumber of Sixes
IPL 2009KKR$800,00010
IPL 2010KKR$800,00016
IPL 2011RCB$650,00044 (Replacement)
IPL 2012RCB$2,000,00059 (Retained)
IPL 2013RCB$2,000,00051
IPL 2014RCB$1,521,000 (INR 9.5 Crore)12 (Retained)
IPL 2015RCB$1,521,000 (INR 9.5 Crore)38
IPL 2016RCB$1,521,000 (INR 9.5 Crore)21
IPL 2017RCB$1,521,000 (INR 9.5 Crore)14
IPL 2018PBKS$314,500 (INR 2 Crore)27
IPL 2019PBKS$283,000 (INR 2 Crore)34
IPL 2020PBKS$283,000 (INR 2 Crore)23
IPL 2021PBKS$283,000 (INR 2 Crore)8
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3. Jos Buttler – 149 Sixes ($43,812 Per Six)

Since it took about $6,528,000 for his 149 sixes, Jos Buttler cost his franchises about $43,812 per six in the IPL.

  • Teams: MI, RR
  • Matches/Innings: 96/95
  • Runs (Balls): 3223 (2173)
  • Strike Rate (Sixes/Fours): 148.32 (149/319)

Jos Buttler’s Average IPL Salary: $816,000 ($6,528,000 over 8 seasons)

  • Number of Balls Per Six: 14.58 (2173/149)
  • Number of Sixes Per Innings: 1.57 (149/95)

Jos Buttler’s IPL Salary Over the Years

YearTeamSalarySixes
IPL 2016MI$560,000 (INR 3.8 Crore)11
IPL 2017MI$560,000 (INR 3.8 Crore)15
IPL 2018RR$692,000 (INR 4.4 Crore)21
IPL 2019RR$692,000 (INR 4.4 Crore)14
IPL 2020RR$692,000 (INR 4.4 Crore)16
IPL 2021RR$692,000 (INR 4.4 Crore)13
IPL 2022RR$1.32 Million (INR 10 Crore)45
IPL 2023RR$1.32 Million (INR 10 Crore)14
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4. Andre Russell – 193 Sixes ($45,430 Per Six)

Since it took about $8,768,000 for his 193 sixes, Andre Russell cost his franchises about $45,430 per six in the IPL.

  • Teams: DD (Delhi Daredevils), KKR
  • Matches/Innings: 112/96
  • Runs (Balls): 2262 (1300)
  • Strike Rate (Sixes/Fours): 174.00 (193/150)

Andre Russell’s Average IPL Salary: $797,091 ($8,768,000 over 11 seasons)

  • Number of Balls Per Six: 6.74 (1300/193)
  • Number of Sixes Per Innings: 2.01 (193/96)

Andre Russell’s IPL Salary Over the Years

YearTeamSalarySixes
IPL 2012DD$450,0003
IPL 2013DD$450,0000
IPL 2014KKR$96,000 (INR 60 Lakh)0
IPL 2015KKR$96,000 (INR 60 Lakh)19
IPL 2016KKR$96,000 (INR 60 Lakh)15
IPL 2017KKRWithdrawn
IPL 2018KKR$1.1 Million (INR 7 Crore)31
IPL 2019KKR$1.1 Million (INR 7 Crore)52
IPL 2020KKR$1.1 Million (INR 7 Crore)9
IPL 2021KKR$1.1 Million (INR 7 Crore)14
IPL 2022KKR$1.59 Million (INR 12 Crore)32
IPL 2023KKR$1.59 Million (INR 12 Crore)18
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5. David Warner – 226 Sixes ($55,690 Per Six)

Since it took about $12,586,000 for his 226 sixes, David Warner cost his franchises about $55,690 per six in the IPL.

  • Teams: DD (Delhi Daredevils), SRH, DC (Delhi Capitals)
  • Matches/Innings: 176/176
  • Runs (Balls): 6397 (4572)
  • Strike Rate (Sixes/Fours): 139.91 (226/646)

David Warner’s Average IPL Salary: $899,000 ($12,586,000 over 14 seasons)

  • Number of Balls Per Six: 20.23 (4572/226)
  • Number of Sixes Per Innings: 1.28 (226/176)

David Warner’s IPL Salary Over the Years

YearTeamSalarySixes
IPL 2009DD$30,000 (15 Lakh, Pre-Signing)5
IPL 2010DD$30,000 (15 Lakh)14
IPL 2011DD$750,00011
IPL 2012DD$750,00014
IPL 2013DD$750,00014
IPL 2014SRH$881,000 (INR 5.5 Crore)24
IPL 2015SRH$881,000 (INR 5.5 Crore)21
IPL 2016SRH$881,000 (INR 5.5 Crore)31
IPL 2017SRH$881,000 (INR 5.5 Crore)26
IPL 2018SRHWithdrawn
IPL 2019SRH$1.7 Million (INR 12 Crore)21
IPL 2020SRH$1.7 Million (INR 12 Crore)14
IPL 2021SRH$1.7 Million (INR 12 Crore)6
IPL 2022DC$826,000 (INR 6.25 Crore)15
IPL 2023DC$826,000 (INR 6.25 Crore)10
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6. Kieron Pollard – 223 Sixes ($55,780 Per Six)

Since it took about $12,439,000 for his 223 sixes, Kieron Pollard cost his franchises about $55,780 per six in the IPL.

  • Teams: MI
  • Matches/Innings: 189/171
  • Runs (Balls): 3412 (2316)
  • Strike Rate (Sixes/Fours): 147.32 (223/218)

Kieron Pollard’s Average IPL Salary: $1.037 Million ($12,439,000 over 13 seasons)

  • Number of Balls Per Six: 10.39 (2316/223)
  • Number of Sixes Per Innings: 1.30 (223/171)

Kieron Pollard’s IPL Salary Over the Years

YearTeamSalarySixes
IPL 2010MI$750,00017
IPL 2011MI$900,000 (Retained)6
IPL 2012MI$900,00014
IPL 2013MI$900,00029
IPL 2014MI$1.2 Million (INR 7.5 Crore)15
IPL 2015MI$1.2 Million (INR 7.5 Crore)28
IPL 2016MI$1.2 Million (INR 7.5 Crore)16
IPL 2017MI$1.2 Million (INR 7.5 Crore)22
IPL 2018MI$849,000 (INR 5.4 Crore)7
IPL 2019MI$849,000 (INR 5.4 Crore)22
IPL 2020MI$849,000 (INR 5.4 Crore)22
IPL 2021MI$849,000 (INR 5.4 Crore)16
IPL 2022MI$793,000 (INR 6 Crore)9
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7. Sanju Samson – 182 Sixes ($62,121 Per Six)

Since it took about $11,306,000 for his 182 sixes, Sanju Samson cost his franchises about $62,121 per six in the IPL.

  • Teams: DC, RCB
  • Matches/Innings: 152/148
  • Runs (Balls): 3888 (2834)
  • Strike Rate (Sixes/Fours): 137.19 (182/304)

Average IPL Salary: $942,166 ($11,306,000 over 12 seasons)

  • Number of Balls Per Six: 15.57 (2834/182)
  • Number of Sixes Per Innings: 1.23 (182/148)

Sanju Samson’s IPL Salary Over the Years

*Note: Sanju Samson did not play a single game in IPL 2012 but was still in the squad.

YearTeamSalarySixes
IPL 2012KKR$22,000 (Did not play)
IPL 2013RR$22,0005
IPL 2014RR$641,000 (INR 4 Crore)17
IPL 2015RR$641,000 (INR 4 Crore)8
IPL 2016DD$620,000 (INR 4.2 Crore)8
IPL 2017DD$620,000 (INR 4.2 Crore)19
IPL 2018RR$1.26 Million (INR 8 Crore)19
IPL 2019RR$1.26 Million (INR 8 Crore)13
IPL 2020RR$1.26 Million (INR 8 Crore)26
IPL 2021RR$1.26 Million (INR 8 Crore)17
IPL 2022RR$1.85 Million (INR 14 Crore)26
IPL 2023RR$1.85 Million (INR 14 Crore)24
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8. Yusuf Pathan – 158 Sixes ($65,863 Per Six)

Since it took about $10,406,400 for his 251 sixes, Yusuf Pathan cost his franchises about $65,863 per six in the IPL.

  • Teams: RR, KKR
  • Matches/Innings: 174/154)
  • Runs (Balls): 3204 (2241)
  • Strike Rate (Sixes/Fours): 142.97 (158/262)

Average IPL Salary: $867,200 ($10,406,400 over 12 seasons)

  • Number of Balls Per Six: 14.18 (2241/158)
  • Number of Sixes Per Innings: 1.03 (158/154)

Yusuf Pathan’s IPL Salary Over the Years

YearTeamSalarySixes
IPL 2008RR$475,00025
IPL 2009RR$475,00012
IPL 2010RR$475,00024
IPL 2011KKR$2.1 Million13
IPL 2012KKR$2.1 Million7
IPL 2013KKR$2.1 Million14
IPL 2014KKR$521,000 (INR 3.25 Crore)20
IPL 2015KKR$521,000 (INR 3.25 Crore)12
IPL 2016KKR$521,000 (INR 3.25 Crore)13
IPL 2017KKR$521,000 (INR 3.25 Crore)6
IPL 2018SRH$298,700 (INR 1.9 Crore)11
IPL 2019SRH$298,700 (INR 1.9 Crore)1
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9. AB De Villiers – 251 Sixes ($65,976 Per Six)

Since it took about $16,560,000 for his 251 sixes, AB De Villiers cost his franchises about $65,976 per six in the IPL.

  • Teams: DD (Delhi Daredevils), RCB
  • Matches/Innings: 184/170
  • Runs (Balls): 5162 (3403)
  • Strike Rate (Sixes/Fours): 151.68 (251/413)

AB De Villiers’ Average IPL Salary: $1.183 Million ($16,560,000 over 14 seasons)

  • Number of Balls Per Six: 13.56 (3403/251)
  • Number of Sixes Per Innings: 1.48 (251/170)

AB De Villiers’ IPL Salary Over the Years

YearTeamSalarySixes
IPL 2008DD$300,0001
IPL 2009DD$300,00012
IPL 2010DD$300,0000
IPL 2011RCB$1.1 Million14
IPL 2012RCB$1.1 Million15
IPL 2013RCB$1.1 Million15
IPL 2014RCB$1.2 Million (INR 7.5 Crore)24
IPL 2015RCB$1.2 Million (INR 7.5 Crore)22
IPL 2016RCB$1.2 Million (INR 7.5 Crore)37
IPL 2017RCB$1.2 Million (INR 7.5 Crore)16
IPL 2018RCB$1.89 Million (INR 11 Crore)30
IPL 2019RCB$1.89 Million (INR 11 Crore)26
IPL 2020RCB$1.89 Million (INR 11 Crore)23
IPL 2021RCB$1.89 Million (INR 11 Crore)16
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10. Shane Watson – 190 Sixes ($67,563 Per Six)

Since it took about $12,837,000 for his 190 sixes, Shane Watson cost his franchises about $67,563 per six in the IPL.

  • Teams: RR, RCB, CSK
  • Matches/Innings: 145/141
  • Runs (Balls): 3874 (2809)
  • Strike Rate (Sixes/Fours): 137.19 (182/304)

Shane Watson’s Average IPL Salary: $1.070 Million ($12,837,000 over 12 seasons)

  • Number of Balls Per Six: 14.78 (2809/190)
  • Number of Sixes Per Innings: 1.35 (190/141)

Shane Watson’s IPL Salary Over the Years

YearTeamSalarySixes
IPL 2008RR$125,00019
IPL 2009RRWithdrawn
IPL 2010RR$125,0009
IPL 2011RR$1.3 Million (Retained)17
IPL 2012RR$1.3 Million (Retained)14
IPL 2013RR$1.3 Million (Retained)22
IPL 2014RR$2 Million (INR 1.25 Crore)14
IPL 2015RR$2 Million (INR 1.25 Crore)14
IPL 2016RCB$1.4 Million (INR 9.5 Crore)12
IPL 2017RCB$1.4 Million (INR 9.5 Crore)1
IPL 2018CSK$629,000 (INR 4 Crore)35
IPL 2019CSK$629,000 (INR 4 Crore)20
IPL 2020CSK$629,000 (INR 4 Crore)13
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11. KL Rahul – 168 Sixes ($70,964 Per Six)

Since it took about $11,922,000 for his 168 sixes, KL Rahul cost his franchises about $70,964 per six in the IPL.

  • Teams: RCB, KXIP, LSG
  • Matches/Innings: 118/109
  • Runs (Balls): 4163 (3097)
  • Strike Rate (Sixes/Fours): 134.42 (168/355)

Average IPL Salary: $1.192 Million ($11,922,000 over 10 seasons)

  • Number of Balls Per Six: 18.43 (3097/168)
  • Number of Sixes Per Innings: 1.54 (168/109)

KL Rahul’s IPL Salary Over the Years

YearTeamSalarySixes
IPL 2013RCB$22,0000
IPL 2014SRH$160,000 (INR 1 Crore)3
IPL 2015SRH$160,000 (INR 1 Crore)5
IPL 2016RCB$160,000 (INR 1 Crore, Transferred)16
IPL 2017RCBWithdrawn
IPL 2018KXIP$1.73 Million (INR 11 Crore)32
IPL 2019KXIP$1.73 Million (INR 11 Crore)25
IPL 2020KXIP$1.73 Million (INR 11 Crore)23
IPL 2021KXIP$1.73 Million (INR 11 Crore)30
IPL 2022LSG$2.25 Million (INR 17 Crore)30
IPL 2023LSG$2.25 Million (INR 17 Crore)4
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12. Suresh Raina – 203 Sixes ($78,138 Per Six)

Since it took about $15,862,000 for his 203 sixes, Suresh Raina cost his franchises about $78,138 per six in the IPL.

  • Teams: CSK, GL (Gujarat Lions)
  • Matches/Innings: 205/200
  • Runs (Balls): 5528 (4043)
  • Strike Rate (Sixes/Fours): 136.73 (203/506)

Suresh Raina’s Average IPL Salary: $1.22 Million ($15,862,000 over 13 seasons)

  • Number of Balls Per Six: 19.92 (4043/203)
  • Number of Sixes Per Innings: 1.02 (203/200)

Suresh Raina’s IPL Salary Over the Years

YearTeamSalarySixes
IPL 2008CSK$650,00018
IPL 2009CSK$650,00021
IPL 2010CSK$650,00022
IPL 2011CSK$1.3 Million (Retained)17
IPL 2012CSK$1.3 Million (Retained)19
IPL 2013CSK$1.3 Million (Retained)18
IPL 2014CSK$1.2 Million (INR 7.5 Crore)19
IPL 2015CSK$1.2 Million (INR 7.5 Crore)16
IPL 2016GL$1.256 Million (INR 9.5 Crore)10
IPL 2017GL$1.256 Million (INR 9.5 Crore)13
IPL 2018CSK$1.7 Million (INR 11 Crore)12
IPL 2019CSK$1.7 Million (INR 11 Crore)9
IPL 2020CSKWithdrawn
IPL 2021CSK$1.7 Million (INR 11 Crore)9
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13. Glenn Maxwell – 158 Sixes ($79,911 Per Six)

Since it took about $12,626,000 for his 158 sixes, Glenn Maxwell cost his franchises about $79,911 per six in the IPL.

  • Teams: DD (Delhi Daredevils), KXIP, RCB
  • Matches/Innings: 124/120
  • Runs (Balls): 2719 (1725)
  • Strike Rate (Sixes/Fours): 157.62 (158/226)

Average IPL Salary: $1.148 Million ($12,626,000 over 11 seasons)

  • Number of Balls Per Six: 10.92 (1725/158)
  • Number of Sixes Per Innings: 1.32 (158/120)

Glenn Maxwell’s IPL Salary Over the Years

YearTeamSalarySixes
IPL 2012DD$22,0000
IPL 2013MI$1 Million4
IPL 2014KXIP$961,000 (INR 6 Crore)36
IPL 2015KXIP$961,000 (INR 6 Crore)8
IPL 2016KXIP$961,000 (INR 6 Crore)8
IPL 2017KXIP$961,000 (INR 6 Crore)26
IPL 2018KXIP $1.4 Million (INR 9 Crore)9
IPL 2019KXIPWithdrawn
IPL 2020KXIP$1.5 Million (INR 10.75 Crore)0
IPL 2021RCB$1.96 Million (INR 14.25 Crore)21
IPL 2022RCB$1.45 Million (INR 11 Crore)15
IPL 2023RCB$1.45 Million (INR 11 Crore)31
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14. Robin Uthappa – 182 Sixes ($82,478 Per Six)

Since it took about $15,011,000 for his 182 sixes, Robin Uthappa cost his franchises about $82,478 per six in the IPL.

  • Teams: MI, RCB, RR, PWI, KKR, CSK
  • Matches/Innings: 205/197
  • Runs (Balls): 4952 (3799)
  • Strike Rate (Sixes/Fours): 130.35 (182/481)

Average IPL Salary: $1 Million ($15,011,000 over 15 seasons)

  • Number of Balls Per Six: 20.87 (3799/182)
  • Number of Sixes Per Innings: 0.92 (182/197)

Robin Uthappa’s IPL Salary Over the Years

YearTeamSalarySixes
IPL 2008MI$800,0009
IPL 2009RCB$800,000 (traded)3
IPL 2010RCB$800,00027
IPL 2011PWI$2.1 Million10
IPL 2012PWI$2.1 Million10
IPL 2013PWI$2.1 Million12
IPL 2014KKR$801,000 (INR 5 Crore)18
IPL 2015KKR$801,000 (INR 5 Crore)7
IPL 2016KKR$801,000 (INR 5 Crore)8
IPL 2017KKR$801,000 (INR 5 Crore)21
IPL 2018KKR$1 Million (INR 6.4 Crore)21
IPL 2019KKR$1 Million (INR 6.4 Crore)10
IPL 2020RR$421,500 (INR 3 Crore)7
IPL 2021CSK $421,500 (INR 3 Crore, Transferred)5
IPL 2022CSK$264,000 (INR 2 Crore)14
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15. Yuvraj Singh – 149 Sixes ($94,605)

Since it took about $14,096,100 for his 149 sixes, Yuvraj Singh cost his franchises about $95,605 per six in the IPL.

  • Teams: KXIP, PWI
  • Matches/Innings: 132/126
  • Runs (Balls): 2750 (2120)
  • Strike Rate (Sixes/Fours): 129.71 (149/217)

Average IPL Salary: $1.281 Million ($14,096,100 over 11 seasons)

  • Number of Balls Per Six: 14.23 (2120/149)
  • Number of Sixes Per Innings: 1.18 (149/126)

Yuvraj Singh’s IPL Salary Over the Years

YearTeamSalarySixes
IPL 2008KXIP$1.06 Million19
IPL 2009KXIP$1.06 Million16
IPL 2010KXIP$1.06 Million14
IPL 2011PWI$1.8 Million18
IPL 2012PWIWithdrawn
IPL 2013PWI$1.8 Million15
IPL 2014RCB$2.24 Million (INR 14 Crore)28
IPL 2015DD$2.56 Million (INR 16 Crore)10
IPL 2016SRH$1.03 Million (INR 7 Crore)13
IPL 2017SRH$1.03 Million (INR 7 Crore)8
IPL 2018KXIP$314,500 (INR 2 Crore)2
IPL 2019MI$141,600 (INR 1 Crore)6
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16. Shikhar Dhawan – 148 Sixes ($97,976 Per Six)

Since it took about $14,500,400 for his 148 sixes, Shikhar Dhawan cost his franchises about $97,976 per six in the IPL.

  • Teams: DD (Delhi Daredevils), MI, DC (Deccan Chargers), SRH, DC (Delhi Capitals), PBKS
  • Matches/Innings: 217/216
  • Runs (Balls): 6617 (5203)
  • Strike Rate (Sixes/Fours): 127.17 (148/750)

Average IPL Salary: $906,275 ($14,500,400 over 16 seasons)

  • Number of Balls Per Six: 35.16 (5203/148)
  • Number of Sixes Per Innings: 0.69 (148/216)

Shikhar Dhawan’s IPL Salary Over the Years

YearTeamSalarySixes
IPL 2008DD$50,0008
IPL 2009MI$50,000 (trade)0
IPL 2010MI$50,0003
IPL 2011DC$300,0007
IPL 2012DC$300,00018
IPL 2013DC$300,0005
IPL 2014SRH$2 Million (INR 12.5 Crore)7
IPL 2015SRH$2 Million (INR 12.5 Crore)6
IPL 2016SRH$2 Million (INR 12.5 Crore)8
IPL 2017SRH$2 Million (INR 12.5 Crore)9
IPL 2018SRH$817,600 (INR 5.2 Crore)14
IPL 2019DC$817,600 (INR 5.2 Crore, Transferred)11
IPL 2020DC$817,600 (INR 5.2 Crore)12
IPL 2021DC$817,600 (INR 5.2 Crore)16
IPL 2022PBKS1.09 Milllion (INR 8.25 Crore)12
IPL 2023PBKS1.09 Milllion (INR 8.25 Crore)12
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17. Rohit Sharma – 257 Sixes ($116,381 Per Six)

Since it took about $29,910,000 for his 257 sixes, Rohit Sharma cost his franchises about $116,381 per six in the IPL.

  • Teams: DC (Deccan Chargers), MI
  • Matches/Innings: 243/238
  • Runs (Balls): 6211 (4776)
  • Strike Rate (Sixes/Fours): 130.04 (257/554)

Rohit Sharma’s Average IPL Salary: $1.869 Million ($29,910,000 over 16 seasons)

  • Number of Balls Per Six: 18.58 (4776/258)
  • Number of Sixes Per Innings: 1.08 (257/238)

Rohit Sharma’s IPL Salary Over the Years

YearTeamSalarySixes
IPL 2008DC $750,00019
IPL 2009DC$750,00018
IPL 2010DC$750,00014
IPL 2011MI$2 Million13
IPL 2012MI$2 Million18
IPL 2013MI$2 Million28
IPL 2014MI$2 Million (INR 12.5 Crore)16
IPL 2015MI$2 Million (INR 12.5 Crore)21
IPL 2016MI$2 Million (INR 12.5 Crore)16
IPL 2017MI$2 Million (INR 12.5 Crore)9
IPL 2018MI$2.36 Million (INR 15 Crore)12
IPL 2019MI$2.36 Million (INR 15 Crore)10
IPL 2020MI$2.36 Million (INR 15 Crore)19
IPL 2021MI$2.36 Million (INR 15 Crore)14
IPL 2022MI$2.11 Million (INR 16 Crore)13
IPL 2023MI$2.11 Million (INR 16 Crore)17
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18. MS Dhoni – 250 Sixes ($119,280 Per Six)

Since it took about $29,820,000 for his 250 sixes, MS Dhoni cost his franchises about $119,280 per six in the IPL.

  • Teams: CSK, RPS
  • Matches/Innings: 250/218
  • Runs (Balls): 5082 (3739)
  • Strike Rate (Sixes/Fours): 135.91 (239/349)

MS Dhoni’s Average IPL Salary: $1.864 Million ($29,820,000 over 16 seasons)

  • Number of Balls Per Six: 14.96 (3739/250)
  • Number of Sixes Per Innings: 1.15 (250/218)

MS Dhoni’s IPL Salary Over the Years

YearTeamSalarySixes
IPL 2008CSK$1.5 Million15
IPL 2009CSK$1.5 Million9
IPL 2010CSK$1.5 Million8
IPL 2011CSK$1.8 Million23
IPL 2012CSK$1.8 Million9
IPL 2013CSK$1.8 Million25
IPL 2014CSK$2 Million (INR 12.5 Crore)20
IPL 2015CSK$2 Million (INR 12.5 Crore)17
IPL 2016RPS$1.65 Million (INR 12.5 Crore)14
IPL 2017RPS$1.65 Million (INR 12.5 Crore)16
IPL 2018CSK$2.36 Million (INR 15 Crore)30
IPL 2019CSK$2.36 Million (INR 15 Crore)23
IPL 2020CSK$2.36 Million (INR 15 Crore)7
IPL 2021CSK$2.36 Million (INR 15 Crore)3
IPL 2022CSK$1.59 Million (INR 12 Crore)10
IPL 2023CSK$1.59 Million (INR 12 Crore)10
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19. Virat Kohli – 234 Sixes ($120,470 Per Six)

Since it took about $16,560,000 for his 251 sixes, Virat Kohli cost his franchises about $120,470 per six in the IPL.

  • Teams: RCB
  • Matches/Innings: 237/229
  • Runs (Balls): 7263 (5586)
  • Strike Rate (Sixes/Fours): 130.02 (234/643)

Virat Kohli’s Average IPL Salary: $1.761 Million ($28,190,000 over 16 seasons)

  • Number of Balls Per Six: 23.87 (5586/234)
  • Number of Sixes Per Innings: 1.02 (234/229)

Also Read: Virat Kohli Net Worth 2023 (in Dollars USD and Indian Rupee INR): How Do Cricketers Earn Money?

Virat Kohli’s IPL Salary Over the Years

YearTeamSalarySixes
IPL 2008RCB$50,0004
IPL 2009RCB$50,0008
IPL 2010RCB$50,00012
IPL 2011RCB$1.8 Million16
IPL 2012RCB$1.8 Million9
IPL 2013RCB$1.8 Million22
IPL 2014RCB$2 Million (INR 12.5 Crore)16
IPL 2015RCB$2 Million (INR 12.5 Crore)23
IPL 2016RCB$2 Million (INR 12.5 Crore)38
IPL 2017RCB$2 Million (INR 12.5 Crore)11
IPL 2018RCB$2.67 Million (INR 17 Crore)18
IPL 2019RCB$2.67 Million (INR 17 Crore)13
IPL 2020RCB$2.67 Million (INR 17 Crore)11
IPL 2021RCB$2.67 Million (INR 17 Crore)9
IPL 2022RCB$1.98 Million (INR 15 Crore)8
IPL 2023RCB$1.98 Million (INR 15 Crore)16
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Final Thoughts

Some interesting revelations here.

Ambati Rayudu may probably be one of the steals of the IPL auctions!

Because Rayudu was an uncapped player for early part of his IPL career, his IPL salary was comparatively low to his contemporaries. He was a clutch player for both MI & CSK over the years and was worth every penny.

However, take this list with a grain of salt. The fact that Rohit Sharma, MS Dhoni, and Virat Kohli end at the bottom of the list is due to the fact that they were retained almost every time. We are only comparing dollars per six here, but these three provided their IPL franchises a lot more value—Leadership, Fours, Runs, Orange Caps, IPL Titles, brand value, fan loyalty, match winning performances, and much more.

Thanks for reading, until next time.

Please do share ahead with your cricket loving friends!

Also Read:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who has hit the most sixes in the IPL?

Chris Gayle has hit the most sixes in the IPL (357), followed by Rohit Sharma (257) and AB De Villiers (251).Image of MS Dhoni shown with a caption, "IPL's most valuable six hitter?"

Who is the most valuable batter in the IPL?

Ambati Rayudu ($34,442), Chris Gayle ($37,808), and Jos Buttler ($43,812) have the best ratios of dollar per six in IPL history.Photo of Chris Gayle in the Background. Statistics shown for the most valuable IPL batters by number of sixes hit.

© Copyright @Nitesh Mathur and Broken Cricket Dreams, LLC 2023. Originally published on 03/16/2024. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Broken Cricket Dreams with appropriate and specific direction to the original content (i.e. linked to the exact post/article).

They Don’t Make Warriors like Neil Wagner Anymore

Let’s jump straight in. The day has finally arrived when the New Zealand great, Neil Wagner, announced his retirement.

After all, he was fifteen days away from his 38th birthday. How long could he possibly bowl his bloody bouncers on flat pitches through the dead heat in the middle of Day 3?

Well probably till he was 82 or somethin’. Wagner could likely continue to bowl his heart out if his team needed him to till the very day he died.

Because that is what Wagner did.

What Made Wagner Special?

Did Wagner swing it like Southee? No.

Did he bend it like Boult? Nope.

Was he as fast as Shoaib? As scary as Murali? As consistent as McGrath?

No, No, and No.

So what made Wagner special? One word—Grit. Author Travis Bradberry’s quote can be applied to perfectly sum up Wagner’s character:

“Grit is that ‘extra something’ that separates the most successful people from the rest. It’s the passion, perseverance, and stamina that we must channel in order to stick with our dreams until they become reality.”

Travis Bradberry

He has batted for 107 minutes to save a Test. He bowled with a fractured toe once and with broken fingers another time.

Surely he has grit. After all, he famously said, “Unless they carry me off a stretcher, I am going to try and do everything I can.” 

You can’t help but love Neil Wagner. He is a fighter. He is a warrior. 

Wagner could swing it just enough. He was ultra scary for short periods of time. He could crank up his speeds for a few spells in a Test. And boy, was he consistent with those short ball spells used to trap set batters. 

The fact that he could combine these multiple skill sets together over long periods of time is what set him apart. 

The Journey of a Thousand Miles 

Although Wagner in his own words did not think of himself as the “most talent or most gifted bloke,” he was exactly the type of character that the team needed. One that would give it his all regardless of the conditions or the circumstances of the match.

Someone who would never give up. 

His arduous journey to the Kiwi Test cap would instill in him the valuable lesson of perseverance. Born in South Africa, Wagner came would play alongside AB de Villiers & Faf du Plessis in the Affies school team

Partially due to the quota system, Wagner never got his big break in South African cricket. So he decided to leave his home nation to find a better opportunity in England. Although he had a couple of decent seasons in the County circuit, this did not work out either. It was coach Mike Hesson who sought Wagner’s services in New Zealand.

At the age of 26, Wagner finally had a new home.

Neil Wagner Stats: The Numbers Tell the Story

Fast forward a decade, one of Wagner’s and New Zealand’s shining moments was the World Test Championship Final win in 2021

It featured perhaps New Zealand’s best fast bowling unit—Tim Southee, Trent Boult, Neil Wagner, and Kyle Jamieson. 

Four versatile bowlers that played their own roles beautifully. Statistically speaking, Southee, Boult, and Wagner are definitely in the Top 5 of New Zealand’s all time bowling list (If you take Vettori out of the list, Hadlee-Southee-Boult-Wagner are clearly NZ’s Top 4 fast bowlers).

    Neil Wagner Stats

    In Test cricket, Wagner is New Zealand’s 

    • 5th Highest Wicket-Taker (260)
    • 5th Best Figures in an Innings (7/39 vs West Indies)
    • 5th Highest Bowling SR (52.78)
    • 6th Most 4-Fers (22) 

     

    It is astonishing what Wagner has accomplished as a first change bowler. Jarrod Kimber brilliantly described in his video essay that “there is no other bowler in the history of cricket like Neil Wagner.” Definitely recommend watching this after this article.

    In an era of T20 dominance, Wagner ended up playing 205 first class matches, including 64 Tests. Although he played 116 List A matches and 86 domestic T20s, he never played a single limited over international.

    Neil Wagner’s Greatest Moments

    As a fast bowler, Neil Wagner was involved in multiple great battles. 

    My favorite one of them all, Neil Wagner vs Matthew Wade & Steve Smith.

    Two characters that just never back down. Wagner kept bowling bouncers, Wade kept taking the blows and later pulled and hooked Wagner. And the leg slip setup to Steve Smith in that series was just wonderful to watch. A great diving caught and bowled later in the series as well.

    Another memorable moment was the 1-run win against England in 2023. What an ending.

    What Will I remember the Most?

    The roar of a tiger. The expressions. The perfect team man.

    His energy and the whole vibe. It felt like he simultaneously played for the fun of the game like like an innocent child but also played with the seriousness as if his life depended on it.

    What did Neil Wagner teach me?

    Wagner taught me to never back down in the face of adversity. Win or lose, but give it every ounce of energy you got. He taught me to tackle problems from different perspectives and keep innovating. He taught me to encourage others while learning from them at the same time.

    And most importantly, he taught me to stay true to who you are.

    Humility, character, determination. That’s what Neil Wagner was all about. 

    I will leave you with another quote, this time from the legendary basketball player, Larry Bird.

    “I’ve got a theory that if you give 100% all of the time, somehow things will work out in the end.”

    Larry Bird

    Neil Wagner gave his 100% all the time, both on and off the field.

    And at the end of the day, things did work out for him in the end.

    Neil Wagner, Legend.

    Neil Wagner Retirement Video

    Do watch Neil Wagner’s emotional retirement press conference.

    Ross Taylor, BJ Watling, and Neil Wagner, three of the stalwarts of NZ’s WTC Final victory have stepped off the international scene. The transition period is real. Only Southee, Boult, and Williamson left now. Let’s appreciate them while we can.

    If you like these type of tribute and biographical articles, do check out this page for more such articles.

    Imagine a World Without Sports

    Jimmy stares at the clock.

    It’s 3 o’clock. Just 15 minutes to go. School is about to end. Yet another day in the third grade comes to a close.

    The bell rings.

    Jimmy and his friends scream from the bottom of their lungs. The sprint out the door. They catch the bus and go home.

    Jimmy does his homework, completes his chores, watches cartoons, and goes to sleep.

    One day goes by. Then another. And another.

    The same cycle repeats.

    20 years later, Jimmy becomes a successful banker.

    Jimmy Anderson, Financial Analyst

    ****

    Michael is one of the most popular students at his university.

    He has an INSANE daily schedule.

    He wakes up at 4 AM, studies for his midterms, eats breakfast, and goes to marching band practice swiftly at 6:30.

    It’s 9 AM now, which means it is lecture time.

    He focuses on his classes, finishes his homework during lunch, peruses world history brooks at the library, and takes a short break for some delightful coffee.

    At 3 PM, he goes to his entrepreneurship club. To finish off his day, he decides to volunteer at the Food Bank.

    He later catches the 9 PM train while he studies some more before he reaches home and crashes on his couch at 10:30 PM.

    10 years later, Michael gets a coveted job at the United Nations headquarters.

    Michael Jordan, US Policy Analyst, Diplomat in Training.

    ****

    Roger is a doctor.

    Serena is an engineer.

    Rafael is a lawyer.

    Novak is a successful businessman.

    Roger spends his entire life in Switzerland. Serena spends her entire life in the United States.

    Rafael spends his entire life in Spain, and you guessed it—Novak spends his entire life in Serbia.

    Roger Federer, Serena Williams, Novak Djokovic, and Rafael Nadal never cross paths in their entire lives.

    ****

    We can have our endless debates—Who was the greatest of all-time? Michael Jordan? LeBron James? Or was it Kobe Bryant?

    We can have our mindless fan wars. Kohli vs Rohit vs Dhoni.

    We can have our arguing, fighting, and grappling. We can have our podcasts, pre-match analysis, post-match analysis, stories & tributes, the numbers game, and the statistical predictions.

    But for once, just once, imagine if this all went away on a whim.

    Imagine a world without sports.

    Just imagine and think—can be just take a step back for once, reflect, and be grateful for what we do have?

    What does sports means to you? How would life have been different without it? Comment Below.

    If you like these types of articles, you may like:

    © Copyright @Nitesh Mathur and Broken Cricket Dreams, LLC 2023. Originally published on 02/24/2024. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Broken Cricket Dreams with appropriate and specific direction to the original content (i.e. linked to the exact post/article).

    Top 51 Greatest South African Cricketers of All-Time (Updated 2024) | List of the Best South African Cricket Players (A Complete Guide)

    Who are the greatest South African cricketers of all-time?

    With the passing of Mike Procter, the Proteas family lost another legend. Today we explore the list of greatest cricketers this African nation has produced.

    Let’s dive right in.

    Key Takeaways

    • Jacques Kallis, Dale Steyn, AB De Villiers, Graeme Pollock, Barry Richards, Graeme Smith, Hashim Amla, Mike Procter, and Allan Donald have been judged as the Top 10 South African Cricketers of All-Time.
    • We included several players whose careers coincided with South African’s international isolation due to apartheid (1970-1990), namely Graeme Pollock, Barry Richards, Mike Procter, Clive Rice, Eddie Barlow, Jimmy Cook, Kepler Wessels, Peter Kirsten, David Richardson, Garth le Roux, Ken McEwan and Vintcent van der Bijl.

    Table of Contents

    By the Numbers: The Most Prolific South African Cricketers

    Some of the criteria we used to compile this list includes: Most Wickets/Runs in International Cricket*, international caps, ICC Hall of Fame status, World Cup performances, captaincy record, fielding & keeping record, anecdotes (especially for players in the early twentieth century), and match winning performances.

    *We considered also considered first class stats for the pre-1990s eras.

    Top 10 Most Wickets by South African Bowlers Across Formats: Which South African Cricketer Has taken the Most Wickets?

    We first look at the top 10 wicket-takers across formats. Also listed below are the top few wicket-takers in each format for South Africa.

    • Test: Dale Steyn (439), Shaun Pollock (421), Makhaya Ntini (390), Allan Donald (330), Morne Morkel (309)
    • ODI: Shaun Pollock (387), Alland Donald (272), Jacques Kallis (269), Makhaya Ntini (265), Dale Steyn (194)
    • T20I: Tabriz Shamsi (78), Dale Steyn (64), Imran Tahir (61), Lungi Ngidi (60), Wayne Parnell (59)
    PlayerWickets
    Shaun Pollock823
    Dale Steyn697
    Makhaya Ntini661
    Allan Donald602
    Jacques Kallis572
    Morne Morkel535
    Kagiso Rabada506
    Imran Tahir291
    Lance Klusener272
    Vernon Philander269

    *Does not include wickets taken for World XI teams

    Top 10 Most Runs by South African Batters Across Formats: Which South African Cricketer Has Scored the Most Runs?

    We now move on to the batting side of things.

    • Test: Jacques Kallis (13206), Hashim Amla (9282), Graeme Smith (9253), AB de Villiers (8765), Gary Kirsten (7289)
    • ODI: Jacques Kallis (11550), AB de Villiers (9427), Hashim Amla (8113), Herschelle Gibbs (8094), Graeme Smith (6989)
    • T20I: Quinton de Kock (2277), David Miller (2227), JP Duminy (1934)
    PlayerRunsCenturies
    Jacques Kallis2542262
    AB de Villiers1986447
    Hashim Amla1855355
    Graeme Smith1722437
    Herschelle Gibbs1466135
    Gary Kirsten1408734
    Quinton de Kock1234728
    Faf du Plessis1113623
    Mark Boucher102896
    Hansie Cronje92798

    Other South African Records

    Here are some other stats that will help us give us a complete picture.

    • Most Dismissals/Catches Combined: Mark Boucher (988), Quinton de Kock (550), AB de Villiers (475), Jacques Kallis (334), David Richardson (317)
    • The 100-Test Club: Jacques Kallis (165), Mark Boucher (146), Hashim Amla (124), Graeme Smith (116), AB de Villiers (114), Shaun Pollock (108), Gary Kirsten (101), Makhaya Ntini (101)
    • Most Matches as Test Captain: Graeme Smith (108), Hansie Cronje (53), Faf du Plessis (36), Shaun Pollock (26), Dean Elgar (18)
    • Most Matches as ODI Captain: Graeme Smith (149), Hansie Cronje (138), AB de Villiers (103), Shaun Pollock (92), Kepler Wessels (52)
    • List of South African Players in the ICC Hall of Fame: Allan Donald, Aubrey Faulkner, Jacques Kallis, Graeme Pollock, Shaun Pollock, Barry Richards

    Also Read:

    Top 51 Greatest South African Cricketers of All-Time (Ranked)

    Without further ado, here is the complete list of the 50 greatest South African cricketers of all-time. Enjoy!

    Note: Basil D’Oliveira is not considered since he played international cricket for England. He was born in South Africa and moved to England in 1966.

    51. Colin Bland (1961-1966)

    • Role: Batter
    • Matches: 21 (Test), 131 (FC)
    • Runs: 1669 (Test), 7249 (FC)
    • Hundreds: 3 (Test), 13 (FC)
    • Catches: 10 (Test), 51 (FC)

    Colin Bland revolutionized fielding with unmatched athleticism and set an example for future Protea teams. According to ESPNCricinfo, “Colin Bland will go down in cricket history as one of the greatest cover fielders.” With such greatness, I had to put him in this list.

    Embed from Getty Images

    50. JP Duminy (2004-2019)

    • Role: All-Rounder (Left Handed Batter, Right Arm Off Spinner)
    • Matches: 46 (Test), 199 (ODI), 81 (T20I)
    • Runs: 2103 (Test), 5117 (ODI), 1934 (T20I)
    • Hundreds: 6 (Test), 4 (ODI)
    • Wickets: 42 (Test), 69 (ODI)

    JP Duminy specialized in playing cameos in pressure situations down the order. Played a key part in the monumental 414 chase against Australia at Perth in the 4th innings, stitching a 111-run partnership with AB de Villiers.kepp

    Embed from Getty Images

    49. Fanie de Villiers (1992-1998)

    • Role: Fast Bowler
    • Matches: 18 (Test), 83 (ODI)
    • Wickets: 85 (Test), 95 (ODI)
    • 5-fers: 5 (Test)

    Fanie de Villiers, a force to be reckoned with in South African cricket during the 1990s, claimed 85 Test scalps and 121 ODI dismissals with his precise bowling

    Embed from Getty Images

    48. Jock Cameron (1927-1935)

    • Role: Wicketkeeper Batter
    • Matches: 26 (Test), 107 (FC)
    • Runs: 1239 (Test), 5396 (FC)
    • Hundreds: 11 (FC)
    • Dismissals: 51 (Test), 224 (FC)

    Jock Cameron, a cricketing stalwart of the early 20th century, distinguished himself with his masterful wicketkeeping skills and gritty batting. Once in a 1929 County cricket match, he took six catches and also had one stumping.

    Embed from Getty Images

    47. Kepler Wessels (1982-1994)

    • Role: Left Handed Batter
    • Matches: 16 (Test), 55 (ODI)
    • Runs: 1027 (Test), 1627 (ODI),
    • Hundreds: 2 (Test)

    Kepler Wessels, a true pioneer in South African cricket, won hearts with his gutsy batting, shrewd leadership, and the sheer joy he brought to the game, playing a key part in the nation’s cricketing resurgence while charming fans with his infectious spirit and love for the sport. Played for both Australia and South Africa.

    *Only South African statistics shown. Overall, he played 40 Tests & 109 ODIs.

    Embed from Getty Images

    46. Jonny Waite (1951-1965)

    • Role: Wicketkeeper Batter
    • Matches: 50 (Test), 199 (FC)
    • Runs: 2405 (Test), 9812 (FC)
    • Hundreds: 4 (Test), 23 (FC)
    • Dismissals: 141 (Test), 511 (FC)

    First South African to play 50 Tests. A constant force behind the stumps much like Boucher in the 2000s. Holds the South African record for joint most dismissals (26) in a 5-Test series.

    Embed from Getty Images

    45. David Richardson (1991-1998)

    • Role: Wicketkeeper Batter
    • Matches: 42 (Test), 122 (ODI)
    • Runs: 1359 (Test), 868 (ODI)
    • Hundreds: 1 (Test)
    • Dismissals: 152 (Test), 165 (ODI)

    Now known for his administrative positions in the ICC, Richardson was earlier South Africa’s keeper post the isolation period. Solid keeper.

    Embed from Getty Images

    44. Jackie McGlew (1951-1962)

    • Role: Batter
    • Matches: 34 (Test), 190 (FC)
    • Runs: 2440 (Test), 12170 (FC)
    • Hundreds: 7 (Test), 27 (FC)

    One of the most classical batters in South African history, producing some of the slowest innings of all-time. Noted for carrying the bat and batting for nine hours for a 105 against Australia.

    Embed from Getty Images

    43. David Miller (2010-)

    • Role: Left Handed Batter
    • Matches: 173 (ODI), 116 (T20I)
    • Runs: 4458 (ODI), 2268 (T20I)
    • Hundreds: 6 (ODI), 2 (T20I)

    A specialist limited over batter, Miller will go down as perhaps the greatest #6 ODI batter of all-time along with Michael Bevan, Jos Buttler, and MS Dhoni.

    At #6, Miller scored 2718 runs, 3 centuries, and twenty 50+ scores at an average of 40.56 & 104.78 SR. When in form, Killer Miller is just a sight to watch.

    *He might rise up the list by the end of his career.

    Embed from Getty Images

    42. Jonty Rhodes (1992-2003)

    • Role: Batter
    • Matches: 52 (Test), 245 (ODI)
    • Runs: 2532 (Test), 5935 (ODI)
    • Hundreds: 3 (Test), 2 (ODI)
    • Catches: 34 (Test), 105 (ODI)

    Not many people can boast that they changed their field of expertise. Jonty Rhodes definitely did. With his iconic diving catches and flying run outs, he captured audiences worldwide.

    Also Read: Top 32 Best Fielders in Cricket History: Jonty Rhodes, Paul Collingwood…Can You Guess The Rest?

    Embed from Getty Images

    41. Daryll Cullinan (1993-2001)

    • Role: Batter
    • Matches: 70 (Test), 138 (ODI)
    • Runs: 4554 (Test), 3860 (ODI)
    • Hundreds: 14 (Test), 3 (ODI)

    Daryll Cullinan, renowned for his elegant batting, showcased his prowess in memorable matches like his 275 against New Zealand in 1999, and his crucial knocks against Sri Lanka and England, solidifying his reputation as a key figure in South African cricket during the 90s.

    Embed from Getty Images

    40. Vintcent van der Bijl (1967-1983)

    • Role: Fast Bowler
    • Matches: 156 (FC), 92 (List A)
    • Wickets: 767 (FC), 132 (List A)
    • 5-fers: 46 (FC), 4 (List A)

    Held the record for most wickets in a South Africa’s domestic season (65) at that time. Played his entire career in South Africa’s isolation.

    Embed from Getty Images

    39. Brian McMillan (1991-1998)

    • Role: All-Rounder
    • Matches: 38 (Test), 78 (ODI)
    • Runs: 1968 (Test), 841 (ODI)
    • Hundreds: 3 (Test), 1 (ODI)
    • Wickets: 75 (Test), 70 (ODI)

    Brian McMillan, a key figure in South African cricket during the 1990s, played pivotal roles in memorable matches such as the 1992 World Cup and the historic readmission series, showcasing his all-round skills with both bat and ball

    Embed from Getty Images

    38. Garth Le Roux (1975-1989)

    • Role: Bowling All-Rounder
    • Matches: 239 (FC), 250 (List A)
    • Runs: 5425 (FC), 3151 (List A)
    • Wickets: 838 (FC), 378 (List A)
    • 5-fers: 35 (FC), 5 (list A)

    Garth le Roux, a fearsome fast bowler, struck fear into batsmen with his raw pace and hostile deliveries, making him a formidable force in South African cricket during the 1980s, and leaving a lasting impact with his aggressive bowling style and crucial wicket-taking ability.

    *His entire career was during South Africa’s isolation

    Embed from Getty Images

    37. Herbie Taylor (1912-1932)

    • Role: Batter
    • Matches: 42 (Test), 206 (FC)
    • Runs: 2936 (Test), 13105 (FC)
    • Hundreds: 7 (Test), 30 (FC)

    Herbie Taylor, a cricketing legend of the early 20th century, was celebrated for his elegant batting style and astute captaincy, leading South Africa with distinction and leaving an enduring legacy as one of the country’s finest batsmen and leaders on the cricket field.

    Also served in World War I.

    Embed from Getty Images

    36. Jimmy Sinclair (1896-1911)

    • Role: All-Rounder
    • Matches: 25 (Test), 129 (FC)
    • Runs: 1069 (Test), 4483 (FC)
    • Hundreds: 3 (Test), 6 (FC)
    • Wickets: 63 (Test), 491 (FC)
    • 5-fers: 1 (Test), 33 (FC)

    Jimmy Sinclair, a cricketing pioneer of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, captivated audiences with his exceptional batting and laid the foundation for South African cricket’s rich heritage.

    One of South Africa’s earliest cricket legends.

    Embed from Getty Images

    35. Dean Elgar (2012-2024)

    • Role: Left Handed Batter
    • Matches: 86 (Test), 8 (ODI)
    • Runs: 5347 (Test), 104 (ODI)
    • Hundreds: 14 (Test)

    One of the premier left handed batters of the 2010s, Elgar’s leadership ensured that South Africa had one world class senior batter during their transition period. One word comes to mind when watching Elgar bat, tenacity. Ready to take body blows and challenge the world.

    Embed from Getty Images

    34. Vernon Philander (2007-2020)

    • Role: Fast Bowling All-Rounder
    • Matches: 64 (Test), 30 (ODI), 7 (T20I)
    • Wickets: 224 (Test), 41 (ODI), 4 (T20I)
    • 5-fers: 13 (Test)

    Vernon Philander gave the South African bowling an edge like never before. They have always had pace, seam, and bounce. Philander’s ability to swing it both ways was exactly what the Proteas needed to complement Steyn & Morkel.

    Embed from Getty Images

    33. Trevor Goddard (1955-1970)

    • Role: All-Rounder (Left Handed Batter, Left Arm Medium Pacer)
    • Matches: 41 (Test), 179 (FC)
    • Runs: 2516 (Test), 11289 (FC)
    • Hundreds: 1 (Test), 26 (FC)
    • Wickets: 123 (Test), 534 (FC)
    • 5-fers: 5 (Test), 24 (FC)

    Trevor Goddard, a cricketing stalwart of the 1950s and 1960s, was a formidable all-rounder celebrated for his left-arm spin bowling and solid batting, playing a pivotal role in South African cricket history with his match-winning contributions and leadership on the field, earning him a revered status among fans and peers alike.

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    32. Peter Kirsten (1973-1997)

    • Role: Batter
    • Matches: 12 (Test), 40 (ODI), 327 (FC), 358 (List A)
    • Runs: 626 (Test), 1293 (ODI), 22635 (FC), 11403 (List A)
    • Hundreds: 1 (Test), 57 (FC), 10 (List A)

    Played international a few years past his prime due to international isolation. 22,635 first class runs is a testament to his talent.

    *played 12 Tests and 40 ODIs from 1991-1994

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    31. Ken McEwan (1972-1992)

    • Role: Wicketkeeper Batter
    • Matches: 428 (FC), 409 (List A)
    • Runs: 26628 (FC), 11866 (List A)
    • Hundreds: 74 (FC), 16 (List A)
    • Dismissals: 366 (FC), 142 (List A)

    30. Neil Adcock (1953-1962)

    • Role: Fast Bowler
    • Matches: 26 (Test), 99 (FC)
    • Wickets: 104 (Test), 405 (FC)
    • 5-fers: 5 (Test), 19 (FC)

    First South African fast bowler to 100 test wickets. One of the early greats of South African proud fast bowling history.

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    29. Faf du Plessis (2011-)

    • Role: Batter
    • Matches: 69 (Test), 143 (ODI), 50 (T20I)
    • Runs: 4163 (Test), 5507 (ODI), 1528 (T20I)
    • Hundreds: 10 (Test), 12 (ODI), 1 (T20I)

    A late entrant on the international stage, he grabbed his opportunity with both hands. His epic at Adelaide, blockathon at Delhi, and captaincy towards the end of his career, was the highlight of his career. Still plies his trade around the world after re-inventing himself as a swashbuckling T20 opener.

    Also Read: Faf du Plessis & AB De Villiers’ Friendship: Broken Dreams of Faf and ABD

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    28. Bruce Mitchell (1929-1949)

    • Role: Batter/Leg Spinner
    • Matches: 42 (Test), 173 (FC)
    • Runs: 3471 (Test), 11395 (FC)
    • Hundreds: 8 (Test), 30 (FC)

    Bruce Mitchell, a luminary of South African cricket during the 1930s and 1940s, captivated audiences with his elegant stroke play and strategic brilliance, amassing over 3,000 Test runs at an impressive average of 48.88.

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    27. Imran Tahir (2011-2019)

    • Role: Leg Spinner
    • Matches: 20 (Test), 107 (ODI), 38 (T20I), 404 (T20)
    • Wickets: 57 (Test), 173 (ODI), 63 (T20I), 502 (T20)
    • 5-fers: 2 (Test), 3 (ODI), 2 (T20I), 4 (T20)

    If you search hard enough, Imran Tahir is probably still playing somewhere around the world and running around the ground with his infectious celebration. Completed South Africa’s bowling attack in the 2010s. One of the greatest spinners to play for South Africa and definitely the greatest leg spinner.

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    26. Jimmy Cook (1972-1995)

    • Role: Batter
    • Matches: 3 (Test), 4 (ODI), 270 (FC), 286 (List A)
    • Runs: 107 (Test), 67 (ODI), 21143 (FC), 10639 (List A)
    • Hundreds: 64 (FC), 24 (ODI)

    Jimmy Cook, a stalwart of South African cricket during the apartheid era, demonstrated exceptional resilience and skill, dominating domestic cricket with his prolific run-scoring and earning widespread admiration despite being denied international opportunities due to the country’s sporting isolation.

    *played 3 Tests and 4 ODIs between 1991-1993.

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    Top 25 Greatest South African Cricketers of All-Time: Absolute Greats

    We are halfway there…

    25. Quinton de Kock (2012-)

    • Role: Wicketkeeper Batter
    • Matches: 54 (Test), 155 (ODI), 80 (T20I)
    • Runs: 3300 (Test), 6770 (ODI), 2277 (T20I)
    • Hundreds: 6 (Test), 21 (ODI), 1 (T20I)
    • Dismissals: 232 (Test), 226 (ODI), 92 (T20I)

    A child prodigy that fulfilled his potential. After Graeme Smith retired, Quinton de Kock fit straight through. Even though his Test and ODI careers did not last as long as people would have wanted, he provided plenty of memories. He always got his best out against India and his swivel sixes is still one of the sweetest shots in cricket.

    *may continue to rise up the list

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    24. Kagiso Rabada (2014-)

    • Role: Fast Bowler
    • Matches: 62 (Test), 101 (ODI), 56 (T20I)
    • Wickets: 291 (Test), 157 (ODI), 58 (T20I)
    • 5-fers: 14 (Test), 2 (ODI)

    One of the top bowlers of the current era. Alongside Jasprit Bumrah, Rabada is a complete bowler across formats. If he stays fit, he has the potential to break Steyn’s record of 439 Test wickets.

    *will most likely continue to rise up this list

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    23. Dudley Nourse (1935-1951)

    • Role: Batter
    • Matches: 34 (Test), 175 (FC)
    • Runs: 2960 (Test), 12472 (FC)
    • Hundreds: 9 (Test), 41 (FC)

    Dudley Nourse, a cricketing legend of the mid-20th century, captivated audiences with his elegant batting style and remarkable consistency, leaving an enduring legacy as one of South Africa’s finest batsmen, whose contributions during the pre- and post-war era remain etched in cricketing folklore.

    He served in the Middle East during the World War.

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    22. Peter Pollock (1961-1970)

    • Role: Fast Bowler
    • Matches: 28 (Test), 127 (FC)
    • Wickets: 116 (Test), 485 (FC)
    • 5-fers: 9 (Test), 27 (FC)

    Peter Pollock, a pace bowling sensation of the 1960s and 1970s, showcased his fiery pace and lethal accuracy, leaving a lasting impact on South African cricket with his ability to dismantle batting lineups, epitomizing the spirit of aggression and skill on the field.

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    21. Hansie Cronje (1992-2000)

    • Role: All-Rounder
    • Matches: 68 (Test), 188 (ODI)
    • Runs: 3714 (Test), 5565 (ODI)
    • Hundreds: 6 (Test), 2 (ODI)
    • Wickets: 43 (Test), 114 (ODI)
    • 5-fers: 1 (ODI)

    Charismatic batter. Even more charismatic captain. Legacy tarnished due to the match fixing scandal. Died too early.

    Also Read: Netflix ‘Bad Sport’ Fallen Idol Review: Must Watch for All Cricket Fans – How Will History Judge Hansie Cronje?

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    20. Morne Morkel (2006-2008)

    • Role: Fast Bowler
    • Matches: 86 (Test), 117 (ODI), 44 (T20I)
    • Wickets: 309 (Test), 188 (ODI), 47 (T20I)
    • 5-fers: 8 (Test), 2 (ODI)

    For every Michael Jordan, there is a Scottie Pippen. The height and constant line and length made him a threatening bowler. Combined with Steyn, the duo destroyed plenty of batting line ups around the world.

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    19. Eddie Barlow (1961-1970)

    • Role: All-Rounder
    • Matches: 30 (Test), 283 (FC)
    • Runs: 2516 (Test), 18212 (FC)
    • Hundreds: 6 (Test), 43 (FC)
    • Wickets: 40 (Test), 571 (FC)
    • 5-fers: 1 (Test), 16 (FC)

    Eddie Barlow, the dynamic all-rounder of South Africa in the 1960s and 1970s, left an indelible mark with memorable performances like his 114 against Australia in 1966 and his vital contributions in the series against England in 1965

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    18. Gary Kirsten (1993-2004)

    • Role: Left Handed Batter
    • Matches: 101 (Test), 185 (ODI)
    • Runs: 7289 (Test), 6798 (ODI)
    • Hundreds: 21 (Test), 13 (ODI)

    Gary Kirsten, a prolific batsman of the modern era, distinguished himself with his exceptional technique and unyielding determination, playing a pivotal role in South African cricket’s resurgence in the 1990s and early 2000s. He produced memorable performances such as his monumental 275 against England in 1999 and 188* in an ODI, solidifying his status as one of the nation’s cricketing icons.

    Coached India to 2011 World Cup victory to further cement his name in history.

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    17. Makhaya Ntini (1998-2011)

    • Role: Fast Bowler
    • Matches: 101 (Test), 173 (ODI), 10 (T20I)
    • Wickets: 390 (Test), 266 (ODI), 6 (T20I)
    • 5-fers: 18 (Test), 8 (ODI)

    Makhaya Ntini, a relentless fast bowler, broke barriers as the first black African cricketer to play for South Africa, leaving an indelible mark with his raw pace, fierce competitiveness, and memorable performances, inspiring a generation of young cricketers and symbolizing the transformation of South African cricket.

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    16. Aubrey Faulkner (1906-1924)

    • Role: All-Rounder
    • Matches: 25 (Test), 118 (FC)
    • Runs: 1754 (Test), 6366 (FC)
    • Hundreds: 4 (Test), 13 (FC)
    • Wickets: 82 (Test), 449 (FC)
    • 5-fers: 4 (Test), 33 (FC)

    Aubrey Faulkner, a cricketing pioneer of the early 20th century, mesmerized audiences with his remarkable all-round abilities, excelling as a stylish batsman and a cunning spin bowler, leaving an enduring legacy as one of South Africa’s greatest cricketers and a trailblazer for generations to come.

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    15. Hugh Tayfield (1949-1960)

    • Role: Off Spinner
    • Matches: 37 (Test), 187 (FC)
    • Wickets: 170 (Test), 864 (FC)
    • 5-fers: 14 (Test), 67 (FC)

    Hugh Tayfield, a spin bowling maestro of the 1950s, spun his way into cricketing history with his impeccable accuracy and cunning variations, amassing a record-breaking tally of wickets for South Africa and etching his name among the pantheon of cricketing legends.

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    14. Mark Boucher (1997-2012)

    • Role: Wicketkeeper Batter
    • Matches: 147 (Test), 295 (ODI), 25 (T20I)
    • Runs: 5515 (Test), 4686 (ODI), 268 (T20I)
    • Hundreds: 5 (Test), 1 (ODI)
    • Dismissals: 555 (Test), 425 (ODI), 19 (T20I)

    Mark Boucher is perhaps the most prominent figure behind the stumps in modern cricket. For 15 years, he almost played every match for the Proteas and was a constant force. He had moments with the bat as well such as sealing the 434 chase against Australia in 2006.

    Also Read: Top 17 Greatest Wicketkeepers in Cricket History (Men’s): Which Keepers Have the Most Dismissals Across Formats?

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    13. Lance Klusener (1996-2004)

    • Role: All-Rounder (Left Handed Batter/Right Handed Medium Pacer)
    • Matches: 49 (Test), 171 (ODI)
    • Runs: 1906 (Test), 3576 (ODI)
    • Hundreds: 4 (Test), 2 (ODI)
    • Wickets: 80 (Test), 192 (ODI)
    • 5-fers: 1 (Test), 6 (ODI)

    If you look purely from career stats, Klusener might not be able to compete with the rest of South Africa’s great all-rounders. However, his 1999 World Cup heroics pushes him up. This was the closest South Africa were to a World Cup win.

    281 runs at 140.5 average and 122.17 SR to go along with his 17 wickets and 4 player of the match performances. Pioneered the finisher and power hitting role in ODI cricket.

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    12. Herschelle Gibbs (1996-2010)

    • Role: Batter
    • Matches: 90 (Test), 248 (ODI), 23 (T20I)
    • Runs: 6167 (Test), 8094 (ODI), 400 (T20I)
    • Hundreds: 14 (Test), 21 (ODI)

    Herschelle Gibbs was quite the character. The dynamic between the strokemaker Gibbs & gritty Smith helped them become a strong partnership over the years. Gibbs had several moments of his own- The Six Sixes in the 2007 ODI World Cup, 175 in that iconic 434 chase, (oh yeah, and dropping Steve Waugh in the 1999 World Cup).

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    11. Clive Rice (1969-1994)

    • Role: All-Rounder
    • Matches: 3 (ODI), 482 (FC), 479 (List A)
    • Runs: 26 (ODI), 26331 (FC), 13474 (List A)
    • Hundreds: 48 (FC), 11 (List A)
    • Wickets: 2 (ODI), 930 (FC), 517 (List A)
    • 5-fers: 23 (FC), 6 (List A)

    Clive Rice, a dominant force in South African cricket during the apartheid era, showcased exceptional leadership and all-round skills, symbolizing resilience and determination, and leaving a lasting legacy as a true cricketing icon.

    *played 3 ODIs in 1991 at the age of 42

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    Top 10 Greatest South African Cricketers of All-Time: Undisputed Legends

    Time for the Final 10!

    10. Allan Donald (1991-2003)

    • Role: Fast Bowler
    • Matches: 72 (Test), 164 (ODI), 316 (FC)
    • Wickets: 330 (Test), 272 (ODI), 1216 (FC)
    • 5-fers: 20 (Test), 2 (ODI), 68 (FC)

    Allan Donald took South African fast bowling to new heights. Handed off the baton to the likes of Shaun Pollock, Ntini, and provided a template for Steyn to follow. Action, pace, celebration, Donald had it all.

    Also Read: Top 25 South African Fast Bowlers List (The Complete Guide) | Greatest South African Fast Bowlers of All Time (Updated 2024)

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    9. Mike Procter (1967-1970)

    • Role: All-Rounder
    • Matches: 7 (Test), 401 (FC), 271 (List A)
    • Runs: 226 (Test), 21936 (FC), 6624 (List A)
    • Wickets: 41 (Test), 1417 (FC), 344 (List A)
    • 5-fers: 1 (Test), 70 (FC), 7 (List A)

    According to ESPNCricinfo, Mike Procter was “probably one of the most natural talents the game has ever seen.” Set the tone for great right handed fast bowling all-rounders to come from this region of the world.

    Also Read: Top 55 All-Rounders in Cricket History List (The Complete Guide) | Greatest All-Rounders of All Time (Updated 2023)

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    8. Hashim Amla (2004-2019)

    • Role: Batter
    • Matches: 124 (Test), 181 (ODI), 44 (T20I)
    • Runs: 9282 (Test), 8113 (ODI), 1277 (T20I)
    • Hundreds: 28 (Test), 27 (ODI)

    One of the most elegant opening batters of all-time. He had all the ingredients—Time, Placement, Finesse. Fastest to 3000, 4000, 6000, and 7000 ODI runs.

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    7. Graeme Smith (2002-2014)

    • Role: Left Handed Batter
    • Matches: 117 (Test), 197 (ODI), 33 (T20I)
    • Runs: 9265 (Test), 6989 (ODI), 982 (T20I)
    • Hundreds: 27 (Test), 10 (ODI)

    One of the greatest left-handed openers of all-time, certainly in the Top 3 of the 21st century. Not the prettiest stroke player, it was his grit, courage, and leadership that differentiated Smith from the rest. Playing with a broken hand, Smith earned the respect of the mighty Australians and the rest of the cricketing fraternity. His captaincy led South Africa to a new era after the match fixing crisis.

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    6. Barry Richards (1964-1982)

    • Role: Batter
    • Matches: 4 (Test), 339 (FC), 233 (List A)
    • Runs: 508 (Test), 28358 (FC), 8506 (List A)
    • Hundreds: 2 (Test), 80 (FC), 16 (List A)

    A cricketing genius known for his sublime batting, international cricket missed out on one of the great talents. Played only 4 Tests but showed what he could do with 2 hundred, 2 fifties, and average of 72.57. Otherwise racked up 28358 runs with the best score of 356.

    *played 4 Tests in 1970

    Also Read: 155 Greatest Cricketers of All Time (Men’s): Who Is the King of Cricket? (Updated 2023)

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    5. Graeme Pollock (1963-1970)

    • Role: Left Handed Batter
    • Matches: 23 (Test), 262 (FC), 118 (List A)
    • Runs: 2256 (Test), 20940 (FC), 4656 (List A)
    • Hundreds: 7 (Test), 64 (FC), 12 (List A)

    One of the most elegant left handers of his time, Graeme Pollock played the last of his 23 Tests at the age of 26. Scored a magnificent 274 in the same test as Richards’ 140. South Africa declared for 622/8 and won by an innings and 129 at Durban against Australia. Little did they know that this was their last international series.

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    4. Shaun Pollock (1995-2008)

    • Role: All-Rounder
    • Matches: 108 (Test), 303 (ODI), 12 (T20I)
    • Runs: 3781 (Test), 3519 (ODI), 86 (T20I)
    • Hundreds: 2 (Test), 1 (ODI)
    • Wickets: 421 (Test), 393 (ODI), 15 (T20I)
    • 5-fers: 16 (Test), 5 (ODI)

    Opened the bowling for over a decade and built partnerships with Donald, Ntini, and later Steyn. Solid batter down the order as well and captained South Africa to the 1998 Commonwealth Gold, still one of the only victories to their name.

    Also Read: 17 South Africa World Cup Chokes and Heartbreaks: The Complete List (Men’s & Women’s Combined)

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    3. AB De Villiers (2004-2018)

    • Role: Batter/Wicket-Keeper
    • Matches: 114 (Test), 228 (ODI), 78 (T20I)
    • Runs: 8765 (Test), 9577 (ODI), 1672 (T20I)
    • Hundreds: 22 (Test), 25 (ODI)

    The most versatile batter of the modern age. He had the technical abilities to score 33 (220) and 43 (297) and the destructiveness to score the fastest hundred. One of the original stars of the IPL. Unfortunate to not lift a World Cup and retired from international cricket during his prime.

    Also Read: Top 11 Cricketers Who Retired Too Early – The Lost Generation

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    2. Dale Steyn (2004-2020)

    • Role: Fast Bowler
    • Matches: 93 (Test), 125 (ODI), 47 (T20I)
    • Wickets: 439 (Test), 196 (ODI), 64 (T20I)
    • 5-fers: 26 (Test), 3 (ODI)

    The most prolific South African Test fast bowler and arguably the best fast bowler of all-time. He had the perfect action, the rhythm, the speed, and that iconic celebration. The heart of the South African Test team that won around the world between 2008-2015. Freak injuries curtailed his career but his passion came through with multiple comeback attempts.

    Also Read: Dale Steyn, The Embodiment of Simplicity and Intensity, Retires—The Greatest Fast Bowler of Them All

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    1. Jacques Kallis (1995-2014)

    • Role: All-Rounder
    • Matches: 166 (Test), 328 (ODI), 25 (T20I)
    • Runs: 13289 (Test), 11579 (ODI), 666 (T20I)
    • Hundreds: 45 (Test), 17 (ODI)
    • Wickets: 292 (Test), 273 (ODI), 12 (T20I)

    Simply the Greatest. Jacques Kallis is a name synonymous with consistency, hardwork, and discipline. His batting numbers themselves push him into legendary status but it was his fast bowling that provided South Africa the balance they needed.

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    Honorable Mentions: List of Players that were considered

    Honorable Mentions: Ken McEwan, Albie Morkel, Paul Adams, Cyril Vincent, Anrich Nortje, Vincent van der Bilj, Herbert Taylor, Alan Courie, Basil D’Oliviera, Frank Roro, Eric Petersen, Hylton Ackerman Sr, Henry Fotheringham, Ken McEwan, Stephen Jefferies, Denys Hobson, Ray Jennings, Jock Cameron, Denis Lindsay, Dave Richardson, Jimmy Sinclair, Herbie Taylor, Jackie McGlew, Temba Bavuma, Neil McKenzie, Ashwell Prince, Chris Morris, Wayne Parnell, Charl Langeveldt, Keshav Maharaj, Andre Nel, David Richardson, Nicky Boje

    Future Stars: Tristan Stubbs, Tabriz Shams, Lungi Ngidi, Heinrich Klaasen, Aiden Markram

    Note: “Frank Roro is widely considered the first great black African cricketer” according to ESPNCricinfo although he did not play international cricket.

    List of South African Players in World Cup Squads

    One key aspect of picking South Africa’s greats was looking at their tournament history and squads.

    South Africa won the 1998 Commonwealth Games, 1998 Champions Trophy, and the ICC Test Mace (2013-2015). They were also semi-finalists in the 1992, 1999, 2007, 2015, and 2023 ODI World Cups along with the 2009 & 2014 T20 World Cups.

    Here are the complete squads of those tournaments (except for the Test mace).

    1998 Champion Squads

    • 1998 Champions Trophy: Hansie Cronje (C), Mark Boucher (WK), Dale Benkenstein, Nicky Boje, Derek Crookes, Daryll Cullinan, Alan Dawson, Steve Elworthy, Jacques Kallis, Gary Kirsten, Makhaya Ntini, Shaun Pollock, Jonty Rhodes, Pat Symcox
    • 1998 Commonwealth Games: Shaun Pollock (C), Mark Boucher (WK), Alan Dawson, Andrew Hudson, Dale Benkenstein, Derek Crookes, Henry Williams, Herschelle Gibbs, Jacques Kallis, Makhaya Ntini, Michael Rindel, Nicky Boje, Paul Adams, Steve Elworthy

    ODI World Cups

    • 1992 ODI CWC: Kepler Wessels (C), David Richardson (WK), Tertius Bosch, Hansie Cronje, Allan Donald, Omar Henry, Andrew Hudson, Peter Kirsten, Adrian Kuiper, Brian McMillan, Meyrick Pringle, Jonny Rhodes, Mark Rushmere, Richard Snell
    • 1999 ODI CWC: Hansie Cronje (C), Mark Boucher (WK), Gary Kirsten, Herschelle Gibbs, Jacques Kallis, Daryll Cullinan, Dale Benkenstein, Shaun Pollock, Jonty Rhodes, Allan Donald, Derek Crookes, Alan Dawson, Lance Klusser, Steve Elworthy, Nicky Boje
    • 2007 ODI CWC: Graeme Smith (C), Mark Boucher (WK), AB de Villiers (WK), Loots Bosman, Herschelle Gibbs, Andrew Hall, Jacques Kallis, Justin Kemp, Charl Langeveldt, Andre Nel, Makhaya Ntini, Robin Peterson, Shaun Pollock, Ashwell Prince, Roger Telemachus
    • 2015 ODI CWC: AB de Villiers (C), Quinton de Kock (WK), Hashim Amla, Kyle Abbott, Farhaan Behardien, Faf du Plessis, JP Duminy, David Miller, Morne Morkel, Wayne Parnell, Aaron Phangiso, Vernon Philander, Rilee Rossouw, Dale Steyn, Imran Tahir
    • 2023 ODI CWC: Temba Bavuma (C), Quinton de Kock (WK), Heinrich Klaasen (WK), Keshav Maharaj, Gerald Coetzee, Reeza Hendricks, Marco Jansen, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Andel Phehlukwayo, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, Lizaad Williams, Rassie van der Dussen, Sisanda Magala*, Anrich Nortje*

    *replaced due to injury

    T20 World Cups

    • 2009 T20 WC: Graeme Smith (C), Mark Boucher (WK), Yusuf Abdulla, Johan Botha, AB de Villiers, JP Duminy, Herschelle Gibbs, Jacques Kallis, Albie Morkel, Morne Morkel, Justin Ontong, Wayne Parnell, Robin Peterson, Dale Steyn, Roelof van der Merwe
    • 2014 T20 WC: Faf du Plessis (C), Quinton de Kock (WK), Hashim Amla, Farhaan Behardien, AB de Villiers, JP Duminy, Beuran Hendricks, Imran Tahir, David Miller, Albie Morkel, Morne Morkel, Wayne Parnell, Aaron Phangiso, Dale Steyn, Lonwabo Tsotsobe

    Final Thoughts

    The rich tapestry of South African cricket is woven with the extraordinary contributions of countless remarkable players spanning different eras.

    From the pioneering feats of Jimmy Sinclair and Herbie Taylor to the modern-day brilliance of stars like AB De Villiers and Dale Steyn, each player has left an indelible mark on the sport, shaping its history and inspiring generations.

    Through their skill, resilience, and unwavering passion, these cricketing icons have not only entertained fans but also united a nation, showcasing the transformative power of sport in South Africa and beyond.

    Who were your favorite players? Comment below.

    You May Also Like: Top 50 Greatest West Indies Cricketers of All Time: The Complete List (2023)

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Greatest South African Cricketers of All-Time

    Who are the greatest South African cricketers of All-Time?

    Jacques Kallis, Dale Steyn, AB De Villiers, Greame Pollock, Barry Richards, Graeme Smith, Hashim Amla, Mike Procter, and Allan Donald were judged as the Top 10 Greatest South African Cricketers of All-Time. Greatest South African Cricketers of All Time: (From left to right) Allan Donald, Hashim Amla, Barry Richards, Shaun Pollock, AB de Villiers, Jacques Kallis, Dale Steyn, Graeme Pollock, Graeme Smith, Mike Procter

    Which cricket talent did South Africa lose out during their international cricket isolation due to apartheid?

    Some great players like Graeme Pollock, Barry Richards, Mike Procter, Clive Rice, Eddie Barlow, Jimmy Cook, Kepler Wessels, Peter Kirsten, David Richardson, Garth le Roux, Vincent van der Bijl, and Ken McEwan lost out on some or all of their careers in the isolation era. Greatest South African Cricketers of All Time: (From left to right) Allan Donald, Hashim Amla, Barry Richards, Shaun Pollock, AB de Villiers, Jacques Kallis, Dale Steyn, Graeme Pollock, Graeme Smith, Mike Procter

    Sources: ESPN Cricinfo’s All-Time XIs South Africa Edition

    © Copyright @Nitesh Mathur and Broken Cricket Dreams, LLC 2023. Originally published on 02/18/2024. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Broken Cricket Dreams with appropriate and specific direction to the original content (i.e. linked to the exact post/article).

    An Open Letter to the ICC: 14 Points & Cricket’s League of Nations Proposal for Survival of the Sport

    In 1918, US President Woodrow Wilson gave a speech in the US Congress that would be regarded as the “Fourteen Points.” It proposed potential resolutions to end the ‘Great War’ (World War I), outlined how the world could move towards peace and prevent future wars, and was a key factor during the Treaty of Versailles.

    Now I know what you may be thinking. What kind of comparison is this? Cricket is not war!

    It definitely isn’t, but we can all agree that cricket has its share of problems.

    Two years ago, I wrote an article about 15 Problems that will plague cricket in the next decade. It’s time to provide actionable solutions and remedy some of those problems.

    Background – The Economics of Cricket

    As much as we don’t like to talk about it, money is the center of most issues facing cricket.

    Over the past year, I have worked on investigating approximately how much money it takes to host a Test match, why teams like New Zealand lose money, and learn about the economics of modern-day cricket. This includes:

    Yesterday, the West Indies and England reminded us how special Test cricket truly is. The ebbs and flows, last day drama, the inspiration of an injured Shamar Joseph and Jack Leach fighting for their countries, the comeback of Tom Hartley, the camaraderie between the teams, and much, much more.

    It reminded me why I started watching cricket in the first place, and I would love more of days like yesterday.

    Hence, without further ado, here are my Fourteen Points to help preserve Test cricket, reduce the conflicts in the current cricketing calendar, and help fuel the growth of cricket in smaller nations.

    Table of Contents

    I. Creation of the ICC Test Match Fund

    A Test match fund shall be formed from ICC’s annual budget to support the endeavors of Test cricket around the world. This budget shall, at a minimum, include match fees (players, support staff, ground staff, umpires, administrators), minimum set of cameras to support the DRS (decision review system), miscellaneous finances (hotel, food, and travel), advertising & marketing costs, and all such costs which shall be deemed necessary and proper for carrying into execution a proper Test match. The distribution of the budget shall be approximately proportional to the number of Tests a cricketing nation hosts per year.

    How will it work?

    In 2015, the Test Match fund was pondered, where the ICC would offer $12.5 million to the non-Big 3 Test playing countries to support Test matches over a few years.

    This idea, however, never materialized. In our research, we found that it takes anywhere from $350,000-$1.4 million to host just a single one Test match, which is often a burden on the smaller nations. If a team hosts 2 three-match Test series in a year, that could incur a cost ranging from $2 million-$8.5 million per year.

    Potential Problems

    Even at the lower estimates, $2 million for 12 Test playing nations would cost the ICC about $24 million per year. That is a lot of money.

    This will be a huge effort on the part of the ICC, which may require additional sponsorships, broadcast rights expansions, etc.

    To start off this process, the ICC Test match fund could be piloted among the cricketing nations who are losing money to host a Test (ex: New Zealand, South Africa, Sri Lanka, West Indies, Pakistan, etc.).

    Who Said What?

    “Unless the boards change the economic model, I don’t think Test cricket will thrive outside of the Big 3.”

    Johnny Grave, Cricket West Indies’ CEO

    II. Establishment of the Minimum Test Match Fees

    An adequate minimum Test match fees shall be established to players across all nations for both women’s & men’s Test cricket, the monetary value of which should be updated every two years based on inflation and market economics. Boards are free to provide additional bonuses to their players.

    How Will it Work?

    Currently, India pays its men’s Test players $18,800 per Test, Australia pays about $12,500-$17,725 USD per Test, and England pays its players around $17,600. On the other hand, a New Zealand men’s Test match fee is about $6,600 USD.

    The ICC will need to setup a committee and decide what a decent minimum Test match fee is and then work with each of the cricket boards to split duties on minimum fees.

    For example, if we decide that $ 17,600 (like England) is a good enough Test match fee and NZ cricket board are already paying their players $6,600, then the ICC would jump in and make up the deficit of $11,000 per Test per player. Hence, the Big 3 may not need support from the ICC (and will be allowed to pay their players bonuses on top of the minimum fee), but the ICC would need to help the other countries out.

    Potential Problems

    Once again, we are asking ICC to bear a potentially high cost, but does the ICC even have this much money?

    If not, how can they bring in more money? If this causes the ICC to host more World Cups and tournaments, then this will crowd the already crowded cricket calendar. We do not want to create more issues to solve one problem.

    Who Said What

    South Africa sending a second-string squad to New Zealand in favor of a strong domestic SA20 franchise tournament is now a well-documented phenomenon and caused reactions from several players like Steve Waugh.

    “We’ve got to figure out a way for them [other countries] to be incentivized to play international and particularly Test cricket. That requires transparency from all cricket boards around the world to try to figure out how to pay the players the best way they can.”

    – Usman Khawaja

    “…Similarly to save Test wicket they should introduce standard match fee for all the boards, so that all players of Test cricket nations can have the same match fee.”

    Mohammad Hafeez

    III. Introduction of Test Match Windows

    Two Test match windows, one each for the Northern & Southern hemispheres respectively, shall be implemented for three months of the year.

    How Will it Work?

    A few people have suggested having 3-month window where only Test cricket is played. However, I think this is an incomplete solution since the Northern and Southern hemispheres have different seasons for cricket.

    What could happen is from May-July, there should be a window to play Tests in England, West Indies, and the subcontinent nations while December-February should have a window for Test cricket in New Zealand, South Africa, and Australia. In these windows, we may simultaneously see the Ashes, Ind-SA Tests, and NZ-Pak Tests for example. So the focus of the fan base is solely on Test cricket.

    Now we cannot stop franchise cricket for six months, so what can be done?

    We can customize the window per nation. For example, when a country is hosting or touring for Test cricket within those two larger windows, they are not allowed to host a franchise league. This will help avoid clashes that we are seeing with South Africa and the SA20. On the flip side, leagues like the BBL can benefit because the BBL will have all their international players to choose from.

    Potential Problems

    This will definitely cause backlash by the franchises because prime time will be taken away from them.

    For example, this rule would mean The Hundred cannot be scheduled in the summer months when Test cricket takes priority. This is the time that students have vacations, the weather is decent, and there is time to spend with family. The broadcasters may also suffer due to lower television ratings.

    Who Said What

    IV. Abolishment of the Bilateral ODI Series

    The bilateral ODI series shall be abolished from the cricket calendar.

    How Will it Work?

    As simple as, no more bilateral ODI series.

    Don’t worry, I am not advocating the ‘Death of ODI cricket’ or anything like that. We saw in the 2023 ODI World Cup that fans still enjoy ODI cricket albeit in a smaller dose. Removing ODI bilaterals will provide space in the calendar to accommodate Test cricket, franchise leagues, and qualification matches (more on this, a few sections later).

    Potential Problems

    Loss of sponsorships and advertising revenues for host countries.

    V. Abolishment of the Bilateral T20I Series

    The bilateral T20I series shall be abolished from the cricket calendar.

    How Will it Work?

    Read point IV. Same as above.

    This year, India will only have the 3-match T20I series against Afghanistan and the IPL to choose its players for the World Cup. The franchise tournaments will be enough to assess the player pool for T20 World Cups.

    Potential Problems

    India does not allow their players to play in foreign leagues, so players will not have opportunities to improve and fight for their places in the World Cups.

    VI. Transformation of the two-year World Test Championship cycle into a Concentrated Test World Cup

    Every four years, the league of Test nations shall assemble to play in a Test World Cup during the two 3-month Test windows. The top eight ranked teams shall compete, four winners proceed to a round-robin semi-final, and the Top 2 compete in the Best of 3 final series at a pre-determined venue.

    How Will it Work?

    Four 3-match series will occur for the Top 8 ranked teams during the first six months of the year in two different neutral countries (ex: Aus v WI (#1 v#8), Ind v SL (#2 v #7), Eng v Pak (#3 v #6), SA v NZ (#4 v #5)).

    The four winners will then play 6 Tests in a round-robin format in the ‘Final Stage’ of this Test World Cup. The Top 2 teams will then play a 3-match series for the World Cup Final.

    Note: During this Test World Cup year, regular bilateral Test series will not take place since this will take place during the Test windows.

    Potential Problems

    The teams that did not qualify in the Top 8 or lost in the first stage may not play much Test cricket that year.

    Who Said What

    VII: Two-Tiered Test League with Relegation & Promotion

    Relegation and Promotion shall be established in Test cricket that will feed into the Test Match World Cup. Teams will be promoted and relegated at the end of every two-year cycle.

    How Will it Work?

    The 12-Test playing nations will be divided into two brackets (#1-6 in Bracket A and #7-12 in Bracket B). At the end of each two-year league, the bottom two of Bracket A will be demoted to Bracket B and vice-versa.

    The detailed rules are outlined here: Relegation & Promotion Proposal in World Test Championship. Each team will play 18 Tests and 5 series during this time (against each member of their bracket).

    The top eight-teams (all 6 teams in Bracket A and top 2 of Bracket B) will compete in the Test World Cup.

    Potential Problems

    Since we are proposing Test match windows, some windows may have too much Test cricket if that’s even possible.

    VIII: 4-Day 3 Match Series instead of 2 Tests

    The two-match Test series shall no longer be in existence. If for some reason, due to calendar conflicts, financial reasons, or unforeseen circumstances, there is only space for 15-20 days, then a three-match four-day Test series shall take place with the approval of the cricket boards of the interested parties.

    How Will it Work?

    If the Test match fund and calendar problems are solved with the above solutions, then there will not be a need for a 2-Test series (since teams will have enough money to host Tests).

    However, if the situation arises that only 2-Tests are possible, then instead a 3-match 4-day Test series should take place. This will only add two days to the overall match time and maybe an additional week for the overall tour.

    Potential Problems

    This could result in too many draws if multiple teams agree on this approach.

    Who Said What

    “I’m not sure whether it’s changing it to four-day Test matches, so you can have an extra day to make sure that you play that third Test match.”

    – Faf du Plessis

    IX. Advertising Revenue and ICC Funding for County Cricket, Sheffield Shield, Ranji, and other domestic four-day tournaments.

    The cricket boards will have to allocate their respective annual budgets to the betterment of domestic cricket. This includes, but is not limited to, advertising, recruiting, providing better facilities, etc. The ICC shall subsidize cricketing boards with a poor financial situation.

    How Will it Work?

    Franchise cricket is popular because the best players play in these leagues and sponsorship/TV revenue is high. On the other hand, County Cricket is shown on some YouTube channels, if at all.

    The ICC should have a mandate to oversee that cricket boards are actively publicizing domestic cricket. This could be done by providing boards additional capital for domestic tournaments, having free to air channels, or by marketing domestic tournaments on social media channels.

    Potential Problems

    This could take additional manpower and resource, which will increase the costs of all parties involved.

    X: Mandatory Practice Games with Similar Pitches

    Each visiting team will be provided at least one practice match (for a 3-Test series) and two practice matches (for a series with 4 or more Tests). An impartial inspector from the ICC shall monitor practice pitches to ensure they are closely aligned with the pitches that the series will offer.

    How Will it Work?

    I have no problems with India coming up with rank turners or South Africa’s bounce troubling batters. I do, however, have a problem with multiple Tests finishing within two to three days and the lack of practice matches.

    England have gone to India for a 5-match Test series without a practice match!

    What should happen are at least 2 mandatory practice 4-day matches on pitches with similar conditions. If India plan on putting up rank turners, they need to make rank turners for these practice matches. If the series will have a variety of surfaces (for example, Dharamsala and Chennai), then the two practice matches need to have different surfaces. The ICC need to get involved as the impartial spectator to ensure consistency in pitches.

    Potential Problems

    This could mean longer tours for visiting teams and time away from home.

    XI. Revival of the ODI Super League, Revamping of Qualification Systems & ICC Rankings

    The ODI & T20 World Cup qualification systems shall be revamped and the ODI Super League shall be revived. No country, with the exception of the host nation, will be guaranteed a place in an ICC tournament. The space provided by the abolishment of bilateral series will be replaced by qualifying rounds that feed into the ODI Super League and World Cup qualifications.

    How Will it Work?

    The ODI Super League shall be revived for the benefit of ‘Associate’ nations like the Netherlands and Scotland.

    Unlike the first edition of the ODI Super League, the Super League will be divided into a few groups (for example, 18-team Super League with 3 groups of 6). Every few months, a country will hold a Qualification round to play some of the matches. After a couple of rotations, each team in the group have played against each other twice (at least 10 matches per team before the World Cup).

    These matches will be all be a part of World Cup qualification. No additional friendly bilateral games.

    Potential Problems

    Scheduling could be a problem with the various franchise leagues going around.

    XII. Staggered ODI & T20 World Cups every 2 years, Removal of the ICC Champions Trophy

    Each ICC World Cup tournament for both men’s & women’s cricket shall be held every four years, staggered by two years for the format. The Test World Cups will occur in the years there is no bilateral World Cups.

    How Will it Work?

    There are too many World Cups happening now. T20 World Cups in 2021 & 2022, an ODI World Cup in 2023, and another T20 WC coming up in 2024.

    That’s an overkill. Rather, we can have ODI World Cups in 2027, 2031, 2035, etc. while T20 World Cups are hosted in 2029, 2033, 2037, etc. – also every four years. Then there will be space for the Test World Cup in 2028, 2032, 2036, etc.

    This should also be implemented in the women’s game (One idea could be to stagger all 4 – 2027 Men’s ODI, 2028 WODI, 2029 – MT20, 2030 – WT20, etc.).

    Potential Problems

    Players might retire earlier if they know they cannot make it to the next ICC tournament.

    XIII. Maximum Leagues Cap for Nationally Contracted Players

    If a player is nationally contracted by their national cricket boards, they are limited to a maximum of three leagues (IPL, domestic league, and one other) per year or four leagues per year (if no IPL contract provided) or risk being fined their match fees. If a player does not have a national contract, they are not obligated to follow this limit.

    How Will it Work?

    We can come up with a compromise so that nationally contracted players can play a maximum of 3 leagues per year (including the IPL), any 4 leagues (if no IPL deals), and no restrictions if without a contract.

    If Test windows and minimum Test match fees is implemented, then this should benefit both international cricket and the players themselves.

    Potential Problems

    Players may not sign the national contract at all and be franchise freelancers if that benefits them in the long run.

    XIV: Re-Establish Champions League, Limit Expansion of the IPL

    The Indian Premier League (IPL) shall not expand beyond the three-month window it is currently provided. The franchises are free to invest in other leagues around the world and a one-month window will be allocated for an annual Champions League.

    How Will it Work?

    It is clear that IPL franchises are starting to own stakes in other leagues. In the past, the Champions League did not provide value because a single player would have conflicts over multiple franchise but end up playing for their IPL teams.

    If the IPL team starts doing year long contracts (for example, the same player plays for MI, MI Cape Town, MI NY, etc.), then there shouldn’t be a conflict of interest as before.

    Potential Problems

    For yet another competition to be in the cricket calendar, the IPL has to stop at the 10 teams, 3-month format. If the IPL is any longer, international cricket may cease to exist.

    Final Thoughts

    I was trying to write this article for a couple of weeks but for some reason, couldn’t find the words and ideas. But on a day where Shamar Joseph and Tom Hartley created history and Test cricket came to life, the idea just magically flowed through.

    Much like Woodrow Wilson’s Fourteen points and the League of Nations (precursor to the United Nations), I fully expect the ICC to not pay attention to any of this and lead to major chasms in cricket in the coming years (much like the US themselves did not join the League of Nations, thereby weakened it, and ultimately were not able to prevent World War II).

    This article may sound a bit quixotic in nature, but we have to start somewhere, don’t we? The world can only change if conversations begin.

    The future of cricket is at stake. Will the ICC do something about it?

    What are your thoughts? I want to know, comment below! How would you solve the problems that cricket faces today?

    If you like reading about potential solutions to problems in cricket, do read the following:

    © Copyright @Nitesh Mathur and Broken Cricket Dreams, LLC 2023. Originally published on 01/29/2024. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Broken Cricket Dreams with appropriate and specific direction to the original content (i.e. linked to the exact post/article).

    13 Insanely Jaw Dropping Moments That Show How Ravichandran Ashwin Changed the Way You Think About Cricket

    What do Aristotle, Socrates, René Descartes, Swami Vivekananda, Bertrand Russell, Immanuel Kant, Confucius, Dostoevsky, Jean-Jacques Rosseau, and Ravichandran Ashwin have in common? 

    These are the names of some of the greatest thinkers and philosophers of all time.

    They didn’t just exist! They thought outside the box. Questioned the status quo. Changed the world.

    And yes, you may have noticed that I subtly slipped in Ravichandran Ashwin’s name in there. Why, you may ask? 

    Because Ravichandran Ashwin is more than your average cricketer. He is different. He is also a thinker and has transformed into one of the most influential cricketers of this generation.

    As Ashwin gets closer to his monumental 500th wicket, we look at 11 Moments which illustrates how Ravichandran Ashwin has changed the way YOU think about cricket.

    Key Takeaways

    • Ashwin has taken 496 wickets at a bowling average of 23.79 and 51.4 strike rate. This includes 24 4-fers, 34 5-fers, and 8 10-wicket hauls in a match. 
    • He has scored 3222 Test runs at 26.66 batting average. This includes 5 Test hundreds and 14 fifties. 
    • His best figures are 7/59 (innings), 13/140 (match), and the highest score of 124. 
    • Across formats, Ravichandran Ashwin has taken 724 international wickets and scored more than 4000 runs. 
    • He is currently ranked at #2 for the Best All-Rounder in Men’s Test Cricket.

    1. Desensitizing the Non-Strikers Run-Out

    Let’s start with the elephant in the room—The non-strikers run-out or ‘Mankad’ as it was known in the pre-Ashwin era.

    The most infamous moment was Ashwin vs Buttler. Watch the video below. 

    And if you are looking for more, here is another incident from 2012. 

    How did this change Cricket? 

    Ashwin’s involvement about the non-strikers run-out opened a conversation in cricket that was long overdue.

    What do the laws of cricket say? Why does ‘Spirit of Cricket’ get selectively applied in this case? What can the bowlers do to gain advantage just like the batters when backing up? 

    There is still some way to go to desensitize the non-strikers run-out completely, but the bowlers are at least warning the batters more often (also a little bit of tension during the game is always fun).

    2. Scoring Hundreds and Finishing Tense Chases in Test Cricket

    Ashwin’s highest scores in Test cricket read: 124, 118, 113, 106, 103, 91*, 72, 70, 68, 67, 62, 61, 58, 58, 58, 56, 54, 50.

    These are significant scores. Ashwin has scored plenty of hundreds against the West Indies (both home & away) and also has had key contributions in South Africa, Australia, England, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. That is serious pedigree.

    After the 50 in tough conditions in Bangladesh, Dinesh Karthik described Ashwin as a ‘Scientist.’

     “I call him a scientist. He keeps discovering new things about himself. Be it bowling or batting. That is very nice for a cricketer. And that is why – the talent he has, he has maximized it over the years.”

    My Favorite Ashwin Innings

    My favorite Ashwin batting innings was the chase in the 2nd Test against Bangladesh in 2022. Chasing a target of 145, India had collapsed to 74/7 with Mehidy Hasan Miraz bamboozling the Indian batting.

    Then came in the duo of Shreyas Iyer & Ravichandran Ashwin, constructing a counterattacking rearguard effort. By the end of it, Ashwin had scored the highest score in a fourth innings chase by a batter at #9 or below (42*) and stitched together the highest 8th wicket partnership in a successful fourth innings chase (71*) with Iyer.

    No wonder he climbed to the #1 spot in Test all-rounder ranking and ranks as one of the Best 55 All-Rounders of All-Time in our list.

    3. Opening the Bowling in T20 Cricket Way Back in 2010

    It was the 2010 IPL that brought Ashwin into the national contention.

    Playing under captain MS Dhoni, Ashwin began opening the bowling and keeping things tight in the Powerplays.

    Remember in those days, spinners opening the bowling was still a rare instance. Even Sunil Narine would debut a year later.

    Ashwin ended up with the best economy (6.10) in the competition (for anyone bowling more than 6 overs in the whole IPL), CSK won the IPL for the first time, which started what would become a famed legacy, the Dhoni-Ashwin partnership began, and Ashwin (and India) was on his way to a glorious golden eighteen months.

     4. Bowling that Final Ball with the Iconic Stop in the 2013 Champions Trophy Final

     The golden age of Indian cricket in recent memory between 2007-2013 from the 2007 T20 World Cup to the 2013 Champions Trophy Final. 

    Oh yeah and there was the 2011 World Cup Final as well. 

    In a rain-curtailed low scoring Champions Trophy Final thriller, MS Dhoni in the most MS Dhoni fashion, handed the ball to Ravichandran Ashwin. 

    A six to win, four to tie. Wet conditions. Ashwin does a mini-pause, Tredwell starts to move, Ashwin spins the ball prodigiously. 

    A magnificent spell of 4-0-15-2 to drive India home in a famous victory. 

    5. Saving the Test at Sydney and Putting His Body on the Line

    Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21. We are never forgetting this, are we? 

    Third Test Day 5. Series in the balance. Rahane departs early. 

    Rishabh Pant & Cheteshwar Pujara are full flow. Pant departs on 97, Hazlewood bowls a jaffa to Pujara, Vihari suffers a hamstring injury. 

    Surely Australia is cruising to victory here?  Think again.

    Ashwin & Vihari come together to put together one of the greatest rearguard actions in recent Test history.

    Ashwin had already been suffering back pains. Now the fast bowlers were bowling bouncers and targeted his rib cage. He suffered but stayed in the game. By the end of the day, he was pulling short balls for four. 

    6. Inventing New Deliveries and Experimenting with Bowling Action

    “Methods, madness, and courage” are characteristics that drive Ashwin. In his own words,

    “There is a method to my madness. People ask, ‘What is he doing? Why is he trying so many different things. It is a matter of perception.” 

    Method in the Madness

    One of the things that sets him apart is the ability to take risks and always try out something new. 

    He began his career as an off-spinner and when T20 cricket demanded, he opened the bowling. 

    As leg spinners gained prominence in the 2010s and Ashwin was dropped from the limited overs side in 2017, he knew he had to do something different. 

    He changed his action, experimented with delivery strides, added the carrom ball in his arsenal of weapons, and even developed the leg spinner. 

     

    Watch this video where explains his different variations to Ian Ward and how he bowled Alastair Cook with a beauty! 

    7. Batting at #3 and as a Finisher in the IPL

    Ashwin has received a new lease of life with the Rajasthan Royals in the IPL. It jumpstarted his comeback into the Indian T20I side, but more than that, it is the manner in which has gone about his cricket at RR which is heartening to see.

    In the 2022 IPL, he has helped finish games in the lower order, batted at #3, and has even opened the batting when situations demand it.

    Once again we see a common theme—Ashwin continues to try new things to become a better version of himself every day.

    Embed from Getty Images

    8. Pioneering the Retired Out

    If you think you have seen everything, think again.

    Ashwin went one step further than changing his batting number around. He became the first player in the IPL to tactically retire himself out. He was batting on 28* (23), but at the end of the 19th over, he left the ground.

    This provided specialist finishers, Riyan Parag and Shimron Hetmyer, the extra few balls to finish off the innings.

    Ravichandran Ashwin has become such a cult figure for out-of-the-box tactics that after Rohit Sharma retired himself during the double Super Over against Afghanistan, coach Rahul Dravid said, “Rohit retiring himself out was Ashwin-level thinking.”

    9. Presence of Mind in the T20 World Cup Match Against Pakistan

    Now let’s come to one of the most iconic moments in recent memory.

    An India vs Pakistan match to cherish. In the 19th over, Virat Kohli played the shot heard around the world against Haris Rauf.

    India were getting closer, but Hardik Pandya departed. A few balls later, Virat Kohli was on the non-strikers end.

    Then came time for the finisher from the Nidahas trophy final, Dinesh Karthik. His comeback story and career revamp as a finisher had led to this one moment. But he was stumped when Nawaz bowled a wide one near outside his leg.

    The Iconic Moment

    Next ball, Ravichandran Ashwin is in. Nawaz attempts a similar delivery.

    What does Ashwin do? HE LEAVES IT. I repeat, he leaves it! The audacity, brilliant! Wide ball called. Scores leveled.

    Next ball, he just lifts the ball straight past the bowler for a four.

    Calm, collected, champion. That is Ravi Ashwin for you.

    Embed from Getty Images

    10. Kutti Stories YouTube Channel

    The world is changing every day due to the internet and social media.

    Cricket is also changing and players have to ensure they are planning for the future during their careers. We can already see the likes of Stuart Broad and Dinesh Karthik commentating before retirement. Others have put their hats into the coaching baskets.

    Ashwin in his usual self, has done something slightly differently. He has started a YouTube channel! And not just any channel – the thoughtful interviews and Kutti stories have already garnered him 1.34 Million YouTube subscribers! 

    What is neat about this experience is the insights we are gaining from Ashwin about what happens inside the dressing room. The media is known for speculation and controversies, but Ashwin brings a more human, deeper side to the Indian cricket team. I hope more cricketers follow this path in the future.

    Here is an interview series with Harsha Bhogle on India’s stories during ODI World Cups.

    11. Never Backing Down

    One characteristic I admire about Ravichandran Ashwin is his honesty and the ability to speak his mind regardless of the pressure. 

    We have already seen from a strategic point of view that he never backs down and keeps improving his skills. 

    Off the field as well, he doubles down on this personality trait. We can see from the press conference below (where he questions why journalists have a pre-determined view about Indian pitches) or the memorable sledge against Tim Paine that Ashwin will always be up for a fight. 

    12. From Engineering to Cricket

    Not many athletes have dual careers at the beginning of their careers. Ashwin graduated with a BTech degree.

    Listen to Ashwin in his Cricbuzz interview about his journey:

    “My dad used to wake me up at 5:30…My mom wanted me to be an engineer. And I did it, because I actually struggled through it. I actually slogged my entire sweat out to actually do engineering and cricket. It used to be extremely hard. And extremely hard is an understatement.”

    Along with family pressure, he also suffered a pelvis injury, which kept him out of cricket for a year in his peak high school years. 

    As a society, we judge and admire individuals after success has been achieved, but it is often the stories behind the scenes that helps us understand the true character of the individual. 

    13. Playing Cricket All Day Every Day

    And finally, where there is cricket, there is Ashwin. 

    In modern-day cricket, there is barely any space for free time. There is always a World Cup, international cricket, or T20 leagues happening around the world. 

    But whenever Ashwin finds time, you can see him playing in the TNPL and other local matches. 

    Here is a hilarious clip of Ashwin reviewing a ball TWICE in the small ball because he was not satisfied with the discussion.

    Classic Ashwin!  

    Final Thoughts – How Did Ravichandran Ashwin Change the Game of Cricket

    Ravichandran Ashwin pioneered the retired out, made non-strikers run-out cool again, finished clutch matches in Test cricket, opened the batting in T20 cricket, put the body on the line to fight for his country, bowled off spin, leg spin, carrom ball, won World Cup matches on his own, started a YouTube channel, and even took two reviews on the same ball!

    Ravichandran Ashwin is not just a cricketer. He transcends human nature. A true genius, thinker, philosopher, and scientist.

    I’m glad to have watched Ravichandran Ashwin’s career unfold. 

    If this is not a story we should all appreciate, I don’t know what is.

     

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    What is the Salary of a Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) Cricketer in Bangladesh? (Updated 2024)

    Today we will discuss the salary of a Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) player in the West Indies.

    With the great Bangladesh generation of the Bangladesh comprising of Shakib, Tamim, Mahmudullah, Liton, and more—the BPL has generated lots of hype over the years.

    However, there’s one question on every cricket fan’s mind: just how much do these players make?

    BPL Salary – By the Numbers

    • The average salary range of a Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) player is $20,472-$52,969. The estimated maximum salary cap for the entire BPL ranges from $2.6 million-$6.6 Million for about 127 players, divided among 7 teams.
    • The average salary for a domestic Bangladesh Premier League player is about $17,000-$37,000 (estimated range of $ 1.2 million-$2.6 million for a total of 71 domestic players). The average salary for an overseas BPL cricketer is about $25,000-$71,000 (estimated range of $1.4 million-$4 million for 56 signed overseas players).
    • Compared to other leagues, the BPL ranks at #9 in the richest cricket leagues (according to average salaries). In other words, the BPL is the third poorest league by average player salaries after the Abu Dhabi T10 League & the Sri Lanka Premier League (SLPL).

    Also Read: Why Shakib And Co are the True Fab 5 of this Era, Gentleman’s Game No More: Shakib Al Hasan & Ollie Robinson Highlight Larger Disciplinary Issue

    Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) Draft – How Much Was Each Local Draft Pick?

    CategorySalary Amounts – $USD (BDT)
    Category A$72,897 (BDT 80 Lakh)
    Category B$45,561 (BDT 50 Lakh)
    Category C$27,337 (BDT 30 Lakh)
    Category D$18,224 (BDT 20 Lakh)
    Category E$13,668 (BDT 15 Lakh)
    Category F$9,112 (BDT 10 Lakh)
    Category G$4,556 (BDT 5 Lakh)

    Note: We use the conversion, $1 US Dollar = 109.77 Bangladeshi Taka (BDT) as of 1/18/2024.

    Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) Overseas Signings

    CategorySalary Amounts – $USD
    Category A$80,000
    Category B$60,000
    Category C$40,000
    Category D$30,000
    Category E$20,000

    *The draft salary amounts include tax

    BPL Draft Picks – Salary of Bangladesh Premier League Player

    Note: We have provided ranges because signings (both local & overseas) and retention/transfer amounts are not disclosed.

    However, the minimum and maximum for player signings will align with the category table above. Hence, a local player signing can range from $4,556-$72,897 (5-80 Lakh BDT) and an overseas player signing can range from $20,000-$80,000.

    The number of players in the BPL is also highly variable due to the clashes with the BBL, SA20, and ILT20 (so there are lots of replacements/players that will only play for a few games).

    Also Read: What is the Salary of ILT20 player (International League T20) in the UAE?, What is the Salary of a SA20 player in South Africa?

    1. Chattogram Challengers ($350,000-$650,000)

    • Team Salary Cap Estimate: $347,685-$647,685
      • $177,685 (Local Draft)
      • $70,000 (Overseas Draft), $100,000-$400,000 (Overseas Signing Salary Estimate)
    • Number of Local Players: 10
    • Number of Overseas Players: 7

    Chattogram Challengers Draft Salaries – Overseas Players

    Overseas Signings: Mohammad Haris, Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Hasnain, Stephen Eskinazi, Bilal Khan

    PlayerCategorySalary
    Muhammad WaseemC$40,000
    Curtis CampherD$30,000

    Chattogram Challengers Draft Salaries – Local Players

    PlayerCategorySalary
    Shuvagata HomD$18,224 (BDT 20 Lakh)
    Ziaur RahmanD$18,224 (BDT 20 Lakh)
    NihaduzzamanD$18,224 (BDT 20 Lakh)
    Shohidul IslamD$18,224 (BDT 20 Lakh)
    Tanzid Hasan TamimD$18,224 (BDT 20 Lakh)
    Al-Amin HossainC$27,337 (BDT 30 Lakh)
    Shykat AliD$18,224 (BDT 20 Lakh)
    ImranuzzamanE$13,668 (BDT 15 Lakh)
    Shahadat Hossain DipuE$13,668 (BDT 15 Lakh)
    Salauddin SakilE$13,668 (BDT 15 Lakh)

    2. Comilla Victorians ($425,000-$1.48 Million)

    • Team Salary Cap: $424,019-$1,477,383
      • $145,795 (Local Draft), $18,224-$291,588 (Local Signings Salary Estimate)
      • $260,000-$1,040,000 (Overseas Signings Salary Estimate)
    • Number of Local Players: 10
    • Number of Overseas Players: 13

    Overseas Signings: Johnson Charles, Iftikhar Ahmed, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Rizwan, Moeen Ali, Rakheem Cornwall, Sunil Narine, Rashid Khan, Andre Russell, Matthew Forde, Naseem Shah, Noor Ahmad, Zaman Khan

    Local Signed/Retained Players: Liton Das, Towhid Hridoy, Mustafizur Rahman, Tanvir Islam

    Comilla Victorians Draft Salaries – Local Players

    PlayerCategorySalary
    Imrul KayesB$45,561 (BDT 50 Lakh)
    Jaker AliC$27,337 (BDT 30 Lakh)
    Mahidul Islam AnkonD$18,224 (BDT 20 Lakh)
    Mrittunjoy ChowdhuryC$27,337 (BDT 30 Lakh)
    Rishad HossainE$13,668 (BDT 15 Lakh)
    Musfik HasanE$13,668 (BDT 15 Lakh)

    3. Durdanto Dhaka ($277,000-$730,000)

    • Team Salary Cap: $276,683-$730,047
      • $118,459 (Local Draft), $18,224- $291,588 (Local Signings Salary Estimate)
      • $80,000 (Overseas Draft), $60,000-$240,000 (Overseas Signings Salary Estimate)
    • Number of Local Players: 10
    • Number of Overseas Players: 5

    Overseas Signings: Saim Ayub, Lahiru Samarakoon, Usman Qadir

    Local Signings/Retentions: Mosaddek Hossain, Arafat Sunny, Shoriful Islam, Taskin Ahmed

    Duranto Dhaka Draft Salaries – Overseas Players

    PlayerCategorySalary
    Sadeera SamarawickramaC$40,000
    Chaturanga de SilvaC$40,000

    Duranto Dhaka Draft Salaries – Local Players

    PlayerCategorySalary
    Irfan SukkurC$27,337 (BDT 30 Lakh)
    Mohammad NaimC$27,337 (BDT 30 Lakh)
    Saif HassanC$27,337 (BDT 30 Lakh)
    Alauddin BabuD$18,224 (BDT 20 Lakh)
    SM MeherobG$4,556 (BDT 5 Lakh)
    Sabbir HossainE$13,668 (BDT 15 Lakh)

    4. Fortune Barishal ($385,000-$1 Million)

    • Team Salary Cap: $385,023-$1,010,046
      • $191,355 (Local Draft), $13,668-$218,691 (Local Signings Salary Estimate)
      • $40,000 (Overseas Draft), $140,000-$560,000 (Overseas Signings Salary Estimate)
    • Number of Local Players: 10
    • Number of Overseas Players: 8

    Overseas Signings: Fakhar Zaman, Ibrahim Zadran, Shoaib Malik, Paul Stirling, Abbas Afridi, Yannic Cariah, Mohammad Amir

    Local Signings/Retentions: Tamim Iqbal, Mahmudullah, Mehidy Hasan Miraz

    Fortune Barishal Draft Salaries – Overseas Players

    PlayerCategorySalary
    Dunith WellalageC$40,000

    Fortune Barishal Draft Salaries – Local Players

    PlayerCategorySalary
    Mushfiqur RahimA$72,897 (BDT 80 Lakh)
    Soumya SarkarD$18,224 (BDT 20 Lakh)
    Mohammad SaifuddinC$27,337 (BDT 30 Lakh)
    Kamrul IslamD$18,224 (BDT 20 Lakh)
    Khaled AhmedC$27,337 (BDT 30 Lakh)
    Rakibul HasanE$13,668 (BDT 15 Lakh)
    Pritom KumarE$13,668 (BDT 15 Lakh)

    5. Khulna Tigers ($476,000-$853,000)

    • Team Salary Cap: $475,912-$852,594
      • $186,800 (Local Draft), $9,112-$145,794 (Local Signings Salary Estimate)
      • $200,000 (Overseas Draft), $80,000-$320,000 (Overseas Signings Salary Estimate)
    • Number of Local Players: 10
    • Number of Overseas Players: 7

    Overseas Signings: Evin Lewis, Dhananjaya de Silva, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Wasim

    Local Signings/Retentions: Nahidul Islam, Nasum Ahmed

    Khulna Tigers Draft Salaries – Overseas Players

    PlayerCategorySalary
    Shai HopeA$80,000
    Dasun ShanakaA$80,000
    Kasun RajithaC$40,000

    Khulna Tigers Draft Salaries – Local Players

    PlayerCategorySalary
    Akbar AliD$18,224 (BDT 20 Lakh)
    Anamul HaqueE$13,668 (BDT 15 Lakh)
    Mahmudul Hasan JoyC$27,337 (BDT 30 Lakh)
    Parvez Hossain EmonE$13,668 (BDT 15 Lakh)
    Afif HossainB$45,561 (BDT 50 Lakh)
    Mukidul IslamC$27,337 (BDT 30 Lakh)
    Rubel HossainC$27,337 (BDT 30 Lakh)
    Habibur Rahman SohanE$13,668 (BDT 15 Lakh)

    6. Rangpur Riders ($346,000-$1 Million)

    • Team Salary Cap: $345,794-$1,030,817
      • $132,126 (Local Draft), $13,668-$218,691 (Local Signings Salary Estimate)
      • $40,000 (Overseas Draft), $160,000-$640,000 (Overseas Signings Salary Estimate)
    • Number of Local Players: 10
    • Number of Overseas Players: 9

    Overseas Signings: Babar Azam, Brandon King, Nicholas Pooran, Azmatullah Omarzai, Wanindu Hasaranga, Ihsanullah, Matheesha Pathirana, Yasir Mohammad

    Local Signings/Retentions: Nurul Hasan, Mahedi Hasan, Hasan Mahmud

    Rangpur Riders Draft Salaries – Overseas Players

    PlayerCategorySalary
    Michael RipponC$40,000

    Rangpur Riders Draft Salaries – Local Players

    PlayerCategorySalary
    Rony TaludkarB$45,561 (BDT 50 Lakh)
    Fazle MahmudD$18,224 (BDT 20 Lakh)
    Hasan MuradE$13,668 (BDT 15 Lakh)
    Shamim HossainC$27,337 (BDT 30 Lakh)
    Abu HaiderD$18,224 (BDT 20 Lakh)
    Ashiqur ZamanG$4,556 (BDT 5 Lakh)
    Ripon MondolG$4,556 (BDT 5 Lakh)

    7. Sylhet Strikers ($359,000-$872,000)

    • Team Salary Cap: $358,575-$871,939
      • $150,351 (Local Draft), $18,224- $291,588 (Local Signings Salary Estimate)
      • $110,000 (Overseas Draft), $80,000-$320,000 (Overseas Signings Salary Estimate)
    • Number of Local Players: 11
    • Number of Overseas Players: 7

    Overseas Signings: Dushan Hemantha, Samit Patel, Richard Ngarava, George Scrimshaw

    Local Signings/Retentions: Najmul Hossain Shanto, Zakir Hasan, Mashrafe Mortaza, Tanzim Hasan Sakib

    Sylhet Strikers Draft Salaries – Overseas Players

    PlayerCategorySalary
    Ryan BurlB$60,000
    Harry TectorE$20,000
    Ben CuttingD$30,000

    Sylhet Strikers Draft Salaries – Local Players

    PlayerCategorySalary
    Mohammad MithunC$27,337 (BDT 30 Lakh)
    Yasir AliC$27,337 (BDT 30 Lakh)
    Ariful HaqueD$18,224 (BDT 20 Lakh)
    Nayeem HasanC$27,337 (BDT 30 Lakh)
    Rejaur Rahman RajaD$18,224 (BDT 20 Lakh)
    Shafiqul IslamD$18,224 (BDT 20 Lakh)
    Jawad Mohammad RoyenE$13,668 (BDT 15 Lakh)

    Final Thoughts

    The theory of evolution by Charles Darwin revolves around the idea of ‘Survival of the Fittest.’

    A decade ago, the Bangladesh Premier League was a decent league that attracted some talent from around the world.

    Fast forward to 2024 with ILT20 & SA20 pairing with the IPL and paying their players loads of money, the BPL is not thriving. The mismanagement of the league, lack of DRS, discipline issues, and lack of availability does not help either.

    Will the BPL survive? What do you think?

    Related Cricket Content

    Cricket and Finances Articles

    For other content on Finances in Cricket, do read:

    Sources: BPL T20 PLAYERS’ DRAFT 2024 (youtube.com), BPL 2024 Player’s Draft Base Price

    Image Courtesy: Canva.com

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Salary of Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) player

    What is the average salary for a Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) player in Bangladesh?

    The average salary range of a Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) player is $20,472-$52,969. The estimated maximum salary cap for the entire BPL ranges from $2.6 million-$6.6 Million for about 127 players, divided among 7 teams.

    Is Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) the richest cricket league in the world?

    No, the BPL is the 9th richest league in the world by player salaries (or the third poorest league) with the IPL still standing at #1.

    Who was the most expensive player in the BPL 2024 draft?

    Mushfiqur Rahim was the most expensive player in the 2024 Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) draft. He was the only category A player priced at 80 Lakh BDT ($72,897).

    © Copyright @Nitesh Mathur and Broken Cricket Dreams, LLC 2023. Originally published on 01/18/2024. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Broken Cricket Dreams with appropriate and specific direction to the original content (i.e. linked to the exact post/article).

    What is the Salary of ILT20 player (International League T20) in the UAE? (Updated 2024)

    Today we will discuss the salary of International League T20 (ILT20) player in the UAE.

    The league has generated enormous hype due to the salary they pay their players. Will this threaten to collapse the international cricket calendar.

    How much do these players make? Can the ILT20 compete with the IPL?

    ILT20 Salary – By the Numbers

    • The average salary of an International League T20 (ILT20) player is $138,888 (maximum 18 players in the squad with a maximum purse of $2.5 million). Hence, the maximum salary cap for the entire ILT20 was $15 million for a maximum of 108 players, divided among 6 teams.
    • Each team has allocated a purse ranging from $1.5 million (minimum wage bill) up to $2.5 million (maximum wage bill) to acquire their 18 players (maximum 12 overseas players). The maximum wage bill includes a $500,000 loyalty or signing-on bonus as well as a $500,000 bid purse per team that can be distributed among the players on top of their wage slots.
    • The maximum an ILT20 player can earn is up to $450,000 ($340,000 is the maximum wage and another $110,000 can come from the signing on bonus).
    • Zee Entertainment Enterprises signed a ten-year $100-$120 million deal with the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) for the media broadcasting rights.
    • Compared to other leagues, the ILT20 ranks at #2 in the richest cricket leagues (according to average salaries).

    The International League T20 (ILT20) – How Much Was Each Wage Slot?

    The second season of the ILT20 will run from 19 January-17 February 2024 in the UAE. This time around, these matches have been granted official List A status. In any case, here are the wage slots for the 18-men squad in the ILT20 league.

    Wage SlotsSalary Amounts (Minimum)
    Slot 1$340,000
    Slot 2$260,000
    Slot 3 $220,000
    Slots 4-5 $140,000
    Slot 6 $100,000
    Slots 7-8$60,000
    Slots 9-10$40,000
    Slots 11-12$20,000
    Slots 13-18 $10,000

    ILT20 Retained Players and Squads – Salary of International League T20 Player

    Another reason the ILT20 has garnered interest is because of its overseas player limit. The ILT20 has instilled a limit of nine overseas players in the XI. This is much more extreme than the 4-5 we see in the other teams.

    This is how the teams stack up:

    1. Abu Dhabi Knight Riders

    • Retained Players: Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Joe Clarke, Charith Asalanka, Sabir Ali, Ali Khan, Matiullah Khan, Marchant de Lange
    • Squad: Laurie Evans, Sam Hain, Michael Pepper, Alishan Sharafu, Ravi Bopara, Brandon McMullen, David Willey, Adhitya Shetty, Josh Little, Sabir Ali, Matiullah Khan, Jake Lintott

    2. Desert Vipers

    • Retained Players: Wanindu Hasaranga, Alex Hales, Tom Curran, Colin Munro, Sherfane Rutherford, Luke Wood, Matheesha Pathirana, Rohan Mustafa, Sheldon Cottrell, Dinesh Chandimal, Gus Atkinson* (withdrawn), Ali Naseer
    • Squad: Azam Khan, Adam Hose, Michael Jones, Bas de Leede, Shadab Khan, Aryan Lakra, Karthik Meiyappan, Tymal Mills, Shaheen Shah Afridi

    3. Dubai Capitals

    • Retained Players: Joe Root, Sikandar Raza, Rovman Powell, Dushmantha Chameera, Raja Akifullah Khan
    • Squad: Vritya Aravind, Sam Billings, Rahul Chopra, Max Holden, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Sadeera Samarawickrama, David Warner, Mohammad Mohsin, Dasun Shanaka, Roelof van der Merwe, Akif Raja, Nuwan Thurshara, Andrew Tye, Mark Wood, Haider Ali

    4. Gulf Giants

    • Retained Players: Shimron Hetmyer, Chris Jordan, James Vince, Jamie Overton, Chris Lynn, Aayan Khan, Sanchit Sharma, Richard Gleeson, Carlos Brathwaite, Rehan Ahmed, Gerhard Erasmus
    • Squad: Jordan Cox, Jamie Smith, Usman Khan, Aayan Afzal Khan, Dominic Drakes, Karim Janat, Mujeeb Ur Rahman*, Saurabh Netravalkar, Sanchit Sharma, Zuhaib Zubair

    *Mujeeb is banned from ILT20 for a season or two due to a breach in contract

    5. MI Emirates

    • Retained Players: Kieron Pollard, Dwayne Bravo, Nicholas Pooran, Muhammad Waseem, Daniel Mousley, Trent Boult, Zahoor Khan, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Jordan Thompson, Will Smeed, McKenny Clarke, Andre Fletcher
    • Squad: Asif Khan, Kusal Perera, Ambati Rayudu, Corey Anderson, Odean Smith, Akeal Hosein, Nosthush Kenjige, Muhammad Rohid, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth, Waqar Salamkheil, Zahoor Khan

    6. Sharjah Warriors

    • Retained Players: Chris Woakes, Junaid Siddique, Mark Deyal, Joe Denly, Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Muhammad Jawadullah
    • Squad: Basil Hameed, Johnson Charles, Martin Guptill, Kusal Mendis, Sean Williams, James Fuller, Lewis Gregory, Nilansh Keswani, Daniel Sams, Dilshan Madushanka, Qais Ahmad, Chris Sole, Mahesh Theekshana, Mark Watt

    Which team are you supporting?

    Also Read: How Many Cricket Leagues Are There in the World?

    Final Thoughts

    Cricket is at a breaking point. We have said this time and time again.

    We are now at an extremely crucial juncture in cricket’s history. Not only is international cricket competing with franchise leagues for a spot in the calendar, the T20 leagues themselves are at odds with each other.

    The SA20, ILT20, BBL, BPL, and New Zealand’s Super Smash are all competing for top talent between December and February, after which the PSL and IPL take over. Which leagues will survive?

    We do not know, but international cricket may not. Test cricket (outside of the Big 3), definitely, will not.

    Related Cricket Content

    Cricket and Finances Articles

    For other content on Finances in Cricket, do read:

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Salary of International League T20 (ILT20) player

    What is the average salary for a International League T20 (ILT20) player in the UAE?

    The average salary of an International League T20 (ILT20) player is $138,888 (maximum 18 players in the squad with a maximum purse of $2.5 million).

    Is International League T20 (ILT20) the richest cricket league in the world?

    No, the ILT20 is the second richest cricket league in the world after the Indian Premier League (IPL).

    Who was the most expensive player in the 2024 ILT20 competition?

    The ILT20 offered top players like David Warner up to $450,000 for the ILT20 competition.

    © Copyright @Nitesh Mathur and Broken Cricket Dreams, LLC 2023. Originally published on 01/09/2023. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Broken Cricket Dreams with appropriate and specific direction to the original content (i.e. linked to the exact post/article).

    What is the Salary of a SA20 player in South Africa? (Updated 2024)

    Today we will discuss the salary of a SA20 player in South Africa.

    After years of failing to develop a T20 league, it looks like South Africa finally have a competition that will survive (with the help of the IPL franchises, of course).

    However, with Test match tour to NZ being deprioritized due to SA20, there is one question in everyone’s mind: just how much do these players make?

    SA20 Salary – By the Numbers

    • The average salary of a South Africa T20 League (SA20) player is $110,000 (maximum 19 players in the squad with a maximum purse of 39.1 million South African Rands or $2.09 Million USD). The salary cap in the 2024 SA20 season increased from R. 34 million to R. 39.1 million.
    • The maximum salary cap for the entire SA20 was $12.55 Million, for a maximum of 114 players, divided among 6 teams.
    • Compared to other leagues, the SA20 ranks at #3 in the richest cricket leagues (according to average salaries).

    The South Africa T20 League (SA20) – What is the Average SA20 Salary?

    *Note: The amounts shown below are average auction prices. Since pre-auction signing salaries are undisclosed, some of those players are probably earning much higher amounts since the average salary of a SA20 player is $110,000.

    Also, the wildcard picks have a minimum salary of R. 175,000, but this can be outside the salary purse.

    SA20 TeamAverage Auction Salary Amounts
    Durban Super Giants$86,550
    Joburg Super Kings$98,640
    MI Cape Town$63,270
    Paarl Royals$71,620
    Pretoria Capitals$95,200
    Sunrisers Eastern Cape$106,030

    We use the conversion, $1 USD = 18.69 South African Rand (as of 1/7/2024)

    SA20 Auction Picks – Salary of South Africa League T20

    Now we summarize the salaries for each team based on both the 2023 SA20 Auction as well as the 2024 mini-auction.

    If you’re interested in learning about the 2023 major auction as it happened, check this article on the Key Takeaways from the 2023 SA20 Auction.

    Note: For replacements, we show the price the original player was auctioned for.

    1. Durban Super Giants Player Salaries

    • Average DSG Auction Price: $86,550 (about $1,038,600 spent on 12 players)

    Total Number of Squad Players: 18

    • Most Expensive Player: Dwaine Pretorius ($219,000)

    Pre-Auction Picks: Quinton de Kock, Kyle Mayers, Reece Topley, Prenelan Subrayen, Naveen-ul-Haq, Bhanuka Rajapaksa

    Wildcard: Nicholas Pooran

    PlayerSA20 Salary (in South Africa Rands)SA20 Salary (in USD $)
    Keshav MaharajR. 2,500,000$134,000
    Heinrich Klaasen R. 4,500,000$240,000
    Matthew BreetzkeR. 175,000$9,400
    Keshav MaharajR. 2,500,000$134,000
    Wiaan MulderR. 1,900,000$102,000
    JJ SmutsR. 2,300,000$123,000
    Dwaine PretoriusR. 4,100,000$219,000
    Keemo PaulR. 850,000$45,000
    Tony de Zorzi* (replaced Kyle Abbott)R. 175,000$9,400
    Junior DalaR. 175,000$9,400
    Jason SmithR. 175,000$9,400
    Bryce ParsonsR. 75,000 $4,000

    2. Joburg Super Kings Player Salaries

    • Average JSK Auction Price: $98,640 (about $887,800 spent on 9 players)

    Total Number of Squad Players: 19

    • Most Expensive Player: Donovan Ferreira ($294,000)

    Pre-Auction Picks: Faf du Plessis, Gerald Coetzee, Moeen Ali, David Wiese, Sam Cook, Zahir Khan, Romario Shepherd

    Wildcard: Imran Tahir, Kyle Simmonds* (replaces Aaron Phangiso, who was the 2023 wildcard)

    PlayerSA20 Salary (in South African Rands)SA20 Salary (in USD $)
    Reeza HendricksR. 4,500,000$240,000
    Donovan FerreiraR. 5,500,000$294,000
    Leus Du PlooyR. 1,500,000$80,000
    Nandre BurgerR. 175,000$9,400
    Wayne MadsenR. 850,000$45,000
    Lizaad WilliamsR. 325,000$17,400
    Sibonelo Makhanya* (replaces Harry Brook)R. 2,100,000$112,000
    Dayyaan GaliemR. 1,600,000$86,000
    Ronan HermannR. 75,000 $4,000

    3. MI Cape Town Player Salaries

    • Average MI Cape Town Auction Price: $63,270 (about $759,200 on12 players)

    Total Number of Squad Players: 19

    • Most Expensive Player: Rassie van der Dussen, George Linde ($209,000)

    Pre-Auction Picks: Kagiso Rabada, Dewald Brevis, Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, Rashid Khan* (Kieron Pollard will replace him), Tom Banton

    Wildcard: Jofra Archer* (Nuwan Thushara replaces Archer)

    PlayerSA20 Salary (in South African Rands)SA20 Salary (in USD $)
    Rassie van der DussenR. 3,900,000$209,000
    Ryan RickeltonR. 1,000,000$53,500
    Grant RoelofsenR. 175,000$9,400
    Delano PotgieterR. 175,000$9,400
    Olly StoneR. 850,000$45,000
    George LindeR. 3,900,000$209,000
    Beuran HendricksR. 275,000$14,700
    Duan JansenR. 3,300,000$177,000
    Christopher BenjaminR. 175,000$9,400
    Neelan van HeerdenR. 175,000$9,400
    Thomas Kaber R. 175,000$9,400
    Connor EsterhuizenR. 75,000 $4,000

    4. Paarl Royals Player Salaries

    • Average PR Auction Price: $71,620 (about $931,000 spent on 13 players)

    Total Number of Squad Players: 19

    • Most Expensive Player: Tabraiz Shamsi ($230,000)

    Pre-Auction Picks: David Miller, Jos Buttler, Obed McCoy, Kwena Maphaka

    Wildcard: Fabian Allen, Andile Phehlukwayo (2023)

    PlayerSA20 Salary (in South African Rands)SA20 Salary (in USD $)
    Jason RoyR. 1,500,000$80,000
    Wihan LubbeR. 350,000$18,700
    Mitchell van BuurenR. 175,000$9,400
    Dane VilasR. 3,300,000$177,000
    Lungi NgidiR. 3,400,000$182,000
    Tabraiz ShamsiR. 4,300,000$230,000
    John TurnerR. 425,000$22,700
    Lorcan TuckerR. 175,000$9,400
    Ferisco AdamsR. 325,000$17,400
    Evan JonesR. 1,700,000$91,000
    Bjorn FortuinR. 1,500,000$80,000
    Codi YusufR. 175,000$9,400
    Lhuan-dre PretoriusR. 75,000 $4,000

    5. Pretoria Capitals Player Salaries

    • Average PC Auction Price: $95,200 (about $1,142,400 spent on 12 players)

    Total Number of Squad Players: 18

    • Most Expensive Player: Rilee Rossouw ($370,000)

    Pre-Auction Picks: Migael Pretorius, Anrich Nortje, Jimmy Neesham, Corbin Bosch (Paarl Royals earlier), Colin Ingram* (signed as replacement in 2023)

    Wildcard: Phil Salt, Senuran Muthusamy (2023)

    PlayerSA20 Salary (in South African Rands)SA20 Salary (in USD $)
    Eathan BoschR. 175,000$9,400
    Wayne ParnellR. 5,600,000$300,000
    Rilee RossouwR. 6,900,000$370,000
    Will JacksR. 1,100,000$59,000
    Kyle VerreynneR. 175,000$9,400
    Theunis de BruynR. 1,000,000$53,500
    Shane DadswellR. 175,000$9,400
    Paul StirlingR. 425,000$22,700
    Adil Rashid R. 2,400,000$128,000
    Matthew BoastR. 1,600,000$86,000
    Daryn DupavillionR. 1,700,000$91,000
    Steve StolkR. 75,000 $4,000

    6. Sunrisers Eastern Cape Player Salaries

    • Average SEC Auction Price: $106,030 (about $1,272,300 spent on 12 players)

    Total Number of Squad Players: 18

    • Most Expensive Player: Tristan Stubbs ($492,000)

    Pre-Auction Picks: Aiden Markram, Ottniel Baartman, Dawid Malan, Liam Dawson

    Wildcard: Craig Overton, Jordan Hermann (2023)

    PlayerSA20 Salary (in South African Rands)SA20 Salary (in USD $)
    Temba Bavuma (replaces Tom Abell)R. 850,000$45,000
    Tristan StubbsR. 9,200,000$492,000
    Sarel ErweeR. 175,000$9,400
    Adam Rossington R. 425,000$22,700
    Marco JansenR. 6,100,000$326,000
    Sisanda MagalaR. 5,400,000$289,000
    Brydon CarseR. 425,000$22,700
    Simon HarmerR. 200,000$10,700
    Ayabulela GqamaneR. 175,000$9,400
    Caleb SelekaR. 175,000$9,400
    Beyers SwanepoelR. 600,000$32,000
    Andile SimelaneR. 75,000$4,000

    Final Thoughts

    2024 is the year where international cricket calendar might finally crash.

    The inaugural seasons of SA20, ILT20, and MLC were all a huge season. Now, there is virtually no open space in the international calendar.

    The SA20, with its backing from the IPL franchises, will ensure South African cricketers make a decent living, but it may come at the expense of international cricket.

    Is it worth it? Can the leagues and international cricket co-exist? What is the solution?

    So many questions. What do you say? Comment Below! For now, we can go and enjoy good cricket in the SA20.

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    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Salary of South Africa T20 League (SA20) player

    What is the average salary for a South Africa T20 League (SA20) player in South Africa?

    The average salary for a SA20 player is about $110,000. Teams had a salary purse of 39.1 Million Rands or $2.09 Million for a maximum of 19 players in their squads. Salary of SA20 player in South Africa. Pictured here - Rabada, Quinton de Kock, and Tristan Stubbs, the most expensive player in the SA20 cricket league.

    Is the South Africa T20 League (SAT20) the richest cricket league in the world?

    No, the Indian Premier League (IPL) is the richest cricket league in the world. The SA20 (South African T20 League) is the 3rd richest league by average player salaries.

    Who was the most expensive player in the 2024 SA20 Competition?

    Tristan Stubbs (R. 9,200,000 or $492,000) is the most expensive player in the SA20 competition.

    © Copyright @Nitesh Mathur and Broken Cricket Dreams, LLC 2023. Originally published on 12/16/2023. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Broken Cricket Dreams with appropriate and specific direction to the original content (i.e. linked to the exact post/article).

    What is the Salary of a Pakistan Super League (PSL) Cricketer in Pakistan?

    Today we will discuss the salary of a Pakistan Super League (PSL) player in Pakistan.

    The PSL has finally become profitable over the last couple of years, and big names like Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Haris Rauf make this a T20 competition to behold.

    However, there’s one question on every cricket fan’s mind: just how much do these players make?

    PSL Salary – By the Numbers

    • The average salary of a Pakistan Super League (PSL) player is $66,667 or about 1.89 Crore PKR (maximum 18 players in the squad with a salary cap of $1.2 million or 33.6 Crore PKR). Hence, the maximum amount spent in the entire PSL draft was $7.2 million for a maximum of 108 players, divided among 6 teams.
    • The average salary for a domestic Pakistan Super League player is $61,824 or 1.72 Crore PKR ($4.575 million spent for a total of 74 domestic players). The average salary for an overseas PSL cricketer is $77,206 or 2.16 Crore PKR ($2.625 million spent for 34 signed overseas players).
    • Compared to other leagues, the PSL ranks at #6 in the richest cricket leagues (according to average salaries).

    The Pakistan Super League (PSL) – How Much Was Each Draft Pick?

    Draft PicksAverage Salary Amounts
    Platinum$150,000 (4,19,58,000 PKR)
    Diamond$72,500 (2,02,79,700 PKR)
    Gold$45,000 (1,25,87,400 PKR)
    Silver$20,000 (55,94,400 PKR)
    Emerging$7,500 (20,97,900 PKR)
    Supplementary$50,000 (1,39,86,000 PKR)

    Conversion Rate: As of 12/18/2023, $1 United States Dollar (USD) = 279.72 Pakistan Rupee (PKR)

    PSL 2024 Draft Picks – Salary of Pakistan Super League Player

    According to The Cricketer in PSL (2021), here were the price ranges for each of the different categories. In the last three years, there has not been any changes to this structure. In addition, a range has been provided for each category. However, the exact amounts for a particular player are unknown.

    1. Platinum Round Draft Pick (Average: $150,000/4.2 Crore PKR)

    • Base Price: $130,000 (3,63,63,600 PKR)
    • Maximum Price: $170,000 (4,75,52,400 PKR)
    • Shadab Khan, Naseem Shah, Jordan Cox (Islamabad United), Kieron Pollard, Daniel Sams, Mohammad Nawaz (Karachi Kings), Shaheen Shah Afridi, Fakhar Zaman, Rassie van der Dussen (Lahore Qalandars), Mohammad Rizwan, Iftikhar Ahmed, David Willey (Multan Sultans), Babar Azam, Rovman Powell, Noor Ahmad (Peshawar Zalmi), Rilee Rossouw, Sherfane Rutherford, Mohammad Amir (Quetta Gladiators)

    2. Diamond Round Draft Pick (Average: $72,500/2 Crore PKR)

    • Base Price: $60,000 (1,67,83,200 PKR)
    • Maximum Price: $85,000 (2,37,76,200 PKR)
    • Azam Khan, Imad Wasim, Tymal Mills (Islamabad United), Tim Seifert, James Vince, Hasan Ali (Karachi Kings), Haris Rauf, David Wiese, Sahibzada Farhan (Lahore Qalandars), Khushdil Shah, Usama Mir, Dawid Malan (Multan Sultans), Saim Ayub, Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Asif Ali (Peshawar Zalmi), Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Jason Roy, Wanindu Hasaranga (Quetta Gladiators)

    3. Gold Round Draft Pick (Average: $45,000/1.25 Crore PKR)

    • Base Price: $40,000 (1,11,88,800 PKR)
    • Maximum Price: $50,000 (1,39,86,000 PKR)
    • Faheem Ashraf, Alex Hales, Colin Munro (Islamabad United), Shan Masood, Shoaib Malik, Tabraiz Shamsi (Karachi Kings), Sikandar Raza, Abdullah Shafique, Zaman Khan (Lahore Qalandars), Abbas Afridi, Reece Topley, Reeza Hendricks (Multan Sultans), Mohammad Haris, Aamir Jamal, Naveen-ul-Haq (Peshawar Zalmi), Mohammad Hasnain, Abrar Ahmed, Sarfaraz Ahmed (Quetta Gladiators)

    4. Silver Round Draft Pick (Average: $20,000/56 Lakh PKR)

    • Base Price: $15,000 (41,95,800 PKR)
    • Maximum Price: $25,000 (69,93,000 PKR)
    • Rumman Raees, Matthew Forde, Salman Ali Agha, Qasim Akram, Shahab Khan (Islamabad United), Mir Hamza, Muhammad Akhlaq, M Amir Khan, Anwar Ali, Arafat Minhas (Karachi Kings), Mirza Tahir Baig, Rashid Khan, Mohammad Imran Jnr, Dan Lawrence, Ahsan Bhatti (Lahore Qalandars), Ihsanullah, Tayyab Tahir, Shahnawaz Dahani, Mohammad Ali, Usman Khan (Multan Sultans), Khurram Shahzad, Salman Irshad, Arif Yaqoob, Umair Afridi, Daniel Mousley (Peshawar Zalmi), Will Smeed, Saud Shakeel, Sajjad Ali Jnr, Usman Qadir, Omair Bin Yousaf (Quetta Gladiators)

    5. Emerging Round Draft Pick ($7,500/21 Lakh PKR)

    • Price: $7,500 (20,97,900 PKR)
    • Hunain Shah, Ubaid Shah (Islamabad United), Sirajuddin, M Irfan Khan (Karachi Kings), Jahandad Khan, Syed Faridoun (Lahore Qalands), Faisal Akram, Yasir Khan (Multan Sultans), Haseebullah Khan, Mohammad Zeeshan (Peshawar Zalmi), Adil Naz, Khawaja Nafay (Quetta Gladiators)

    6. Supplementary Round Draft Pick ($50,000/1.4 Crore PKR)

    • Price: $50,000 (1,39,86,000 PKR)
    • Shamyl Hussain, Tom Curran (Islamabad United), Saad Baig, Jamie Overton (Karachi Kings), Shai Hope, Kamran Ghulam (Lahore Qalandars), Chris Jordan, Aftab Ibrahim (Multan Sultans), Lungi Ngidi, Mehran Mumtaz (Peshawar Zalmi), Akeal Hossein, Sohail Khan (Quetta Gladiators)

    Final Thoughts

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    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Salary of Pakistan Super League (PSL) player

    What is the average salary for a Pakistan Super League (PSL) player in Pakistan?

    The average salary of a Pakistan Super League (PSL) player is $66,667. Each PSL team has a purse of $1.2 million for 18 total players.

    Is Pakistan Super League (PSL) the richest cricket league in the world?

    No, the Indian Premier League (IPL) is the richest cricket league in the world. The PSL is the sixth richest cricket league in the world (based on average player salary).

    Who was the most expensive player in the PSL 2024 draft?

    The most expensive players in the PSL 2024 draft were as follows: Shadab Khan, Naseem Shah, Jordan Cox (Islamabad United), Kieron Pollard, Daniel Sams, Mohammad Nawaz (Karachi Kings), Shaheen Shah Afridi, Fakhar Zaman, Rassie van der Dussen (Lahore Qalandars), Mohammad Rizwan, Iftikhar Ahmed, David Willey (Multan Sultans), Babar Azam, Rovman Powell, Noor Ahmad (Peshawar Zalmi), Rilee Rossouw, Sherfane Rutherford, Mohammad Amir (Quetta Gladiators). They all were the Platinum Draft Pick for their respective teams.

    © Copyright @Nitesh Mathur and Broken Cricket Dreams, LLC 2023 USA. Originally published on 12/18/2023. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Broken Cricket Dreams with appropriate and specific direction to the original content (i.e. linked to the exact post/article).