Cricket is more than just a sport—it’s big business. With millions of fans and billions of dollars involved, cricket franchises have grown into global sports empires. But which teams rule the world in 2025?
This updated list ranks the Top 10 Biggest Cricket Franchise in the World (2025 Ranked) by brand value, fan base, on-field success, global recognition, and commercial reach.
Top 10 Biggest Cricket Franchises in the World (2025 Ranked)
| Franchise | League | Estimated Value (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Mumbai Indians (MI) | IPL | $145 Million |
| Chennai Super Kings (CSK) | IPL | $135 Million |
| Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) | IPL | $120 Million |
| Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) | IPL | $115 Million |
| Delhi Capitals (DC) | IPL | $105 Million |
| Gujarat Titans (GT) | IPL | $100 Million |
| Lahore Qalandars | PSL | $78 Million |
| Sydney Sixers | BBL | $70 Million |
| Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) | CPL | $65 Million |
| Joburg Super Kings | SA20 | $60 Million |
What Makes These the Biggest Cricket Franchises in the World?
Cricket franchises are ranked not just by performance but by brand value, reach, fan engagement, and market impact. Let’s look at what drives each team to the top:
1. Mumbai Indians (MI) – The Powerhouse
Mumbai Indians continue to lead the cricketing world. With five IPL trophies and strong business partnerships, they’re not just India’s pride—they’re global icons.
Related terms: richest cricket team 2025, most valuable IPL team, biggest cricket team in the world
2. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) – The Legacy Giant
With MS Dhoni still a strong emotional anchor, CSK commands unmatched loyalty. Their value continues to rise with strategic branding and consistent playoff appearances.
3. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) – Bollywood Meets Cricket
Backed by Shah Rukh Khan, KKR has built an empire not just in India, but also through the Trinbago Knight Riders in the Caribbean Premier League.
4. Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) – The Social Kings
They might not have won an IPL title yet, but RCB dominates online platforms with players like Virat Kohli and Faf du Plessis.
5. Delhi Capitals (DC) – The Rising Star
Investments in youth and smart cricketing strategies make DC a brand for the future. They’ve seen sharp growth since rebranding in 2019.
6. Gujarat Titans (GT) – The New Contender
In just a few seasons, GT has built a solid reputation with a championship win and innovative fan marketing strategies.
7. Lahore Qalandars – Pakistan’s Fan-Favorite
Known for passionate fan support, Lahore Qalandars dominate the PSL with record engagement numbers.
Related terms: biggest PSL franchise 2025, top cricket franchise in Pakistan
8. Sydney Sixers – Australia’s Cricket Flagbearer
Sydney Sixers lead the Big Bash League both in performance and merchandising. Their appeal stretches across Asia-Pacific cricket fans.
9. Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) – West Indies’ Crown Jewel
As part of the KKR group, TKR links Caribbean cricket with India’s biggest sports market. They’ve also been CPL champions multiple times.
10. Joburg Super Kings – South Africa’s CSK Clone
Owned by Chennai Super Kings management, this SA20 team is capitalizing on Africa’s emerging T20 market.
(FAQs)
Which is the richest cricket franchise in the world in 2025?
Mumbai Indians remain the richest cricket franchise in the world with an estimated brand value of over $145 million USD in 2025.
Is IPL still the biggest cricket league in 2025?
Yes, the Indian Premier League (IPL) remains the top cricket league globally, dominating in revenue, viewership, and brand investment.
Which cricket franchise has the most fans in the world?
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) has one of the largest fanbases online, while CSK leads in stadium loyalty and family audiences.
Which non-IPL team is the biggest?
Among non-IPL teams, Lahore Qalandars (PSL) and Sydney Sixers (BBL) are the most valuable and widely followed franchises in their leagues.
What are the top 5 biggest cricket franchises right now?
- Mumbai Indians
- Chennai Super Kings
- Kolkata Knight Riders
- Royal Challengers Bangalore
- Delhi Capitals
Final Thoughts
Cricket franchises are evolving from local teams into global business brands. In 2025, IPL teams dominate, but strong contenders from PSL, BBL, CPL, and SA20 are closing in.
If you’re a cricket lover or investor, these teams are worth watching—not just for the sport, but for the billion-dollar ecosystem they power.