The Indian Premier League (IPL) is more than a cricket tournament; it’s a global spectacle where every ball is amplified by the voices behind the microphone. In 2025, the IPL’s commentary box is a constellation of cricketing legends and broadcasting maestros, each commanding crores to bring the game’s drama to millions. These commentators, from Sunil Gavaskar’s statesmanlike wisdom to Harbhajan Singh’s fiery Punjabi flair, blend deep cricketing insight with charisma, making every boundary and wicket unforgettable. Their analyses, anecdotes, and catchphrases shape how fans experience the IPL, from packed stadiums to living rooms worldwide. Whether it’s Ian Bishop’s poetic cadence or Ravi Shastri’s booming exuberance, these commentators elevate the tournament’s electric atmosphere

Harsha Bhogle to Ravi Shastri: 8 Highest-paid Commentators of IPL 2025

Sunil Gavaskar

₹4.17 Crore Per Season (approx)

Sunil Gavaskar commands ₹4.17 crore for his IPL commentary. The former captain, known for his 10,122 Test runs, brings unmatched technical insight. His calm, authoritative voice dissects batting techniques and game strategies with precision. Gavaskar’s wit and anecdotes from his playing days.

Matthew Hayden

₹4.20 Crore Per Season (approx.)

Matthew Hayden, Australia’s towering opener, earns ₹4.20 crore for his vibrant IPL commentary. With 8,625 Test runs and a 2007 World Cup title, Hayden’s insights carry weight. His booming voice and infectious enthusiasm light up broadcasts, blending Aussie swagger with analytical depth.

Simon Doull

₹4 Crore Per Season (approx.)

Simon Doull, New Zealand’s former fast bowler, pockets ₹4 crore for his IPL commentary. Doull’s forthright style, occasionally sparking debates, keeps fans engaged. His humour and knack for spotting game-turning moments make him a broadcast gem.

Ian Bishop

₹4.25 Crore Per Season (approx.)

Ian Bishop blends poetic flair with technical expertise in his commentary, and he is one of the most revered men in this job. His iconic “Remember the name!” call for Carlos Brathwaite’s 2016 T20 World Cup heroics remains legendary. Bishop’s insights into fast bowling and player mentality are unmatched, reflecting his own injury-plagued career. His warmth and respect for the game endeared him to fans globally.

Murali Kartik

₹4 Crore Per Season (approx.)

Murali Kartik, India’s former left-arm spinner, commands ₹4 crore for his IPL commentary. His articulate breakdowns of pitch behaviour and bowler tactics offer fans a masterclass. Kartik’s understated humour and insider stories from his playing days add charm. A domestic cricket stalwart, he connects with audiences through his grounded perspective.

Harsha Bhogle

₹4 Crore Per Season (approx.)

Harsha Bhogle is also known as India’s voice of cricket, and he earns ₹4 crore for his IPL commentary. Without a playing background, Bhogle’s encyclopedic knowledge and eloquent delivery have made him a global icon. His ability to weave statistics, context, and emotion into commentary is unmatched. From Sachin Tendulkar’s milestones to T20’s rise, Bhogle’s voice is synonymous with cricket’s evolution.

Ravi Shastri

₹4.25 Crore Per Season (approx.)

Ravi Shastri, India’s flamboyant all-rounder turned commentator, earns ₹4.25 crore for his IPL role. Shastri’s larger-than-life persona dominates broadcasts. His booming voice and catchphrases like “That’s gone like a tracer bullet!” electrify fans. Shastri’s insights into captaincy and big-match mentality, drawn from coaching India, are invaluable.

Aakash Chopra

₹3 Crore Per Season (approx.)

Aakash Chopra, India’s former opener, earns around ₹3 crore for his IPL commentary. His YouTube channel, boasting millions of subscribers, showcases his knack for engaging fans. His relatable humour and fluency in Hindi broaden the IPL’s reach.

Sanjay Manjrekar

₹3 Crore Per Season (approx.)

Known for his bold opinions, Sanjay Manjrekar often sparks debates with his critiques of modern players. His deep understanding of batting and pitch conditions adds value to broadcasts. Manjrekar’s occasional controversies keep him in the spotlight, but his cricketing pedigree commands respect.