Cricket franchises first gained global traction in 2008 with the launch of the Indian Premier League (IPL). The idea of city-based teams owned by business tycoons, celebrities, and corporate giants changed cricket forever. Unlike traditional domestic teams, franchises were built as commercial entities with a focus on branding, merchandising, sponsorship, and fan loyalty.
Over the years, franchise cricket has expanded across continents. Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL) brought a similar concept Down Under, while the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) added flair from the West Indies. Pakistan, England, South Africa, and the UAE followed suit, making franchise cricket a global business phenomenon.
By 2025, cricket franchises have become multi-million-dollar brands, with some valued over $1 billion USD. Teams now have academies, sister franchises in multiple leagues, and international marketing strategies. Franchises such as Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have not only dominated on the field but also off it, with massive social media reach, brand endorsements, and loyal fan communities.
This evolution has transformed cricket into a year-round spectacle, bridging gaps between international tournaments and redefining sports entertainment.
Criteria for Measuring the Biggest Franchise
When deciding the biggest cricket franchise in the world in 2025, multiple factors need to be considered. It’s not just about winning trophies, but also about brand strength, fan base, and financial impact. Here are the key criteria:
- Franchise Valuation: Current market worth, including sponsorship deals, broadcasting rights, and ownership investments.
- On-Field Success: Championships won, playoff appearances, and consistent performances in domestic and international leagues.
- Global Fan Following: Social media presence, fan clubs, and merchandise sales across the world.
- Revenue Streams: Earnings from sponsorships, ticket sales, TV rights, and digital platforms.
- Brand Expansion: Sister franchises in other leagues (e.g., KKR owning Trinbago Knight Riders, MI owning MI Cape Town).
- Cultural Influence: Ability to create a legacy, build player loyalty, and generate emotional connections with fans.
By evaluating these criteria, we can determine which team dominates not only in cricketing terms but also as a global sports business entity.
Top Cricket Leagues Driving Franchise Growth
The growth of cricket franchises wouldn’t be possible without the success of the leagues they compete in. Some of the most impactful leagues in 2025 include:
- Indian Premier League (IPL) – The richest and most competitive cricket league, contributing heavily to franchise valuations.
- Big Bash League (BBL) – Australia’s premier cricket league, known for innovation and high attendance.
- Caribbean Premier League (CPL) – Famous for its entertainment factor and connection with West Indies’ cricket culture.
- Pakistan Super League (PSL) – A growing powerhouse with passionate fans and rising franchise values.
- SA20 (South Africa) – Launched in 2023, now an important league backed by IPL team owners.
- International T20 Leagues (ILT20, The Hundred, MLC) – Expanding cricket into UAE, UK, and USA markets.
Among these, the IPL remains the crown jewel, with its franchises leading the world in terms of revenue, popularity, and business growth.
List of Most Valuable Cricket Franchise in the World
| Team | League | Brand Value / Valuation (2025, USD Millions) |
| Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) | IPL | US$ 269 million |
| Mumbai Indians (MI) | IPL | US$ 242 million |
| Chennai Super Kings (CSK) | IPL | US$ 235 million |
| Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) | IPL | US$ 227 million |
| Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) | IPL | US$ 154 million |
| Delhi Capitals (DC) | IPL | US$ 152 million |
| Rajasthan Royals (RR) | IPL | US$ 146 million |
| Gujarat Titans (GT) | IPL | US$ 142 million |
| Punjab Kings (PBKS) | IPL | US$ 141 million |
| Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) | IPL | US$ 122 million |
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) – US$ 269 million
Royal Challengers Bangalore, now the most valuable IPL franchise at US$ 269 million, clinched their first title in IPL 2025, ending years of near-misses. Their fanbase is massive — over 40 million across platforms — drawn by stars like Virat Kohli and the team’s flair in both batting and brand building. Emerging as commercial powerhouses, RCB leverages influencer engagement, digital content and strong sponsorships. Despite past disappointments, their new trophy gives authenticity to their “brand of dreams.”
| Feature | Details |
| Brand Value (2025) | US$ 269 million |
| IPL Titles Won | 1 (first title in 2025) |
| Captain | Rajat Patidar |
| Fan Base | One of the most loyal and massive fan bases in IPL; strong following across India and abroad |
| Known For | Star power, high scoring batting lineups, big names, energetic matches, aggressive cricket culture mixed with strong brand engagement |
| Founded | 2008 |
| Home Ground | M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru |
Mumbai Indians (MI) – US$ 242 million
Mumbai Indians, valued at US$ 242 million in 2025, remain one of IPL’s most successful franchises, with five championships and history of breaking records. They became the first team to cross 150 IPL match wins. Their fan following runs deep, especially in Mumbai and throughout India. Brand strength comes from consistency, star power, high performance under pressure, and excellent marketing. The MI Paltan remains one of the most loyal fan groups, combining tradition and modernity.
| Feature | Details |
| Brand Value (2025) | US$ 242 million |
| IPL Titles Won | 5 (2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2020) |
| Captain | Hardik Pandya (for 2025 season) |
| Fan Base | Massive, among the largest in IPL; strong loyalty & brand recognition across India and overseas |
| Known For | Consistency, winning mindset, strong leadership (under Rohit Sharma historically), proving ability to rebuild squads & performing under pressure |
| Founded | 2008 |
| Home Ground | Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai |
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) – US$ 235 million
Chennai Super Kings, with a brand value of US$ 235 million, have built an empire around consistency, identity, and stars. Led for long by MS Dhoni, they have won five IPL titles (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, 2023). Their “Yellow Army” and “Whistle Podu” supporters are legendary, giving CSK India’s biggest sports-franchise fan base. Strong social media presence (41.3 million+ followers) complements their stability and cultural significance. CSK blends emotional connect, winning pedigree, and brand excellence.
| Feature | Details |
| Brand Value (2025) | US$ 235 million |
| IPL Titles Won | 5 (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, 2023) |
| Captain | Ruturaj Gaikwad (start of season), MS Dhoni named captain for the remainder after Gaikwad’s injury |
| Fan Base | One of the largest & most loyal in the IPL; known as the “Yellow Army”, strong emotional connect in Chennai and across India; huge following on social media |
| Known For | Consistency, leadership (especially under MS Dhoni), winning culture, excellent home performances; balancing experienced stars with emerging talent |
| Founded | 2008 |
| Home Ground | M. A. Chidambaram Stadium (Chepauk), Chennai |
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) – US$ 227 million
Kolkata Knight Riders, valued at US$ 227 million, are more than just an IPL team. Co-owned by Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan, KKR has built cross-league appeal (IPL & CPL via Trinbago) plus a distinct identity in purple and gold. They’ve won the IPL twice and boast a passionate fanbase. Their marketing and brand outreach — in India and abroad — combine glitz, entertainment, and serious cricket, making KKR both commercially strong and culturally resonant.
| Feature | Details |
| Brand Value (2025) | US$ 227 million |
| IPL Titles Won | 3 (2012, 2014, 2024) |
| Captain | Ajinkya Rahane |
| Vice-Captain | Venkatesh Iyer |
| Fan Base | Very large and engaged; strong following nationally and internationally; known for passionate support at home games in Kolkata (Eden Gardens) |
| Known For | Bold leadership moves, entertainment value, powerful batting line-ups, big players, strong revival in 2024 by winning their third title after a gap; strong branding and fan loyalty. |
| Founded | 2008 |
| Home Ground | Eden Gardens, Kolkata |
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) – US$ 154 million
Sunrisers Hyderabad, at US$ 154 million brand value in 2025, are known for their balanced squads, especially strong bowling units, and for fostering young talent. They won the IPL in 2016 and remain competitive. Their fans in South India are devoted and their orange and black colours are distinct. SRH’s brand stands on resilient performances, stability, and excellent talent scouting. Though less flashy than some rivals, their value lies in consistency, character, and regional signature.
| Feature | Details |
| Brand Value (2025) | US$ 154 million |
| IPL Titles Won | 1 (won in 2016) |
| Captain | Pat Cummins (appointed for IPL 2024; led into 2025) |
| Fan Base | Strong regional support in Hyderabad & Telangana; “Orange Army” identity; known across India for passionate following |
| Known For | Excellent in bowling, tough competition under pressure, talent scouting, occasional high scoring games – gritty and resilient culture |
| Founded | 2012 |
| Home Ground | Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad |
Delhi Capitals (DC) – US$ 152 million
Delhi Capitals, with a 2025 valuation of US$ 152 million, have transformed in recent years into one of the more progressive franchises. Rebranded from Delhi Daredevils, they invested heavily in youth and infrastructure. Players like Rishabh Pant and others have emerged from their system. Fan-following stands strong, especially among the national capital’s cricket lovers. Their blend of young stars, branding refresh, and metro-city prestige contribute to their growing commercial appeal and stability.
| Feature | Details |
| Brand Value (2025) | US$ 152 million |
| IPL Titles Won | 0 – DC has never won the IPL title yet |
| Captain | Axar Patel (appointed ahead of IPL 2025) |
| Vice-Captain | Faf du Plessis |
| Fan Base | Strong following especially in Delhi-NCR; loyal fans, good social media reach, expects high performance given squad strength. |
| Known For | Investing in youth, revamps in leadership, strong domestic and international players, ambitious performances. |
| Founded | 2008 (started as Delhi Daredevils before rebranding) |
| Home Ground | Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi |
Rajasthan Royals (RR) – US$ 146 million
Rajasthan Royals, valued at US$ 146 million in 2025, are remembered as the IPL’s inaugural champions (2008), and continue to emphasize talent-identification and nurturing youngsters. Their pink branding and legacy with legends like Shane Warne add personality. RR may not win every season, but they remain respected for their astute picks and value-for-money squad building. Their fans are loyal, especially in Rajasthan and beyond. RR’s brand strength comes from authenticity, tradition and gritty performances.
| Feature | Details |
| Brand Value (2025) | US$ 146 million |
| IPL Titles Won | 1 (won in 2008, the inaugural IPL season) |
| Captain | Sanju Samson (returns as captain after being cleared for wicket-keeping); Riyan Parag led the first three matches of IPL 2025 while Samson recovered from injury. |
| Fan Base | Strong, especially in Rajasthan (Jaipur) and among cricket fans who appreciate RR’s tradition of nurturing young talent and attacking cricket. |
| Known For | Identifying and backing unheralded players, a balanced mix of youth and experience, and first-IPL win in the inaugural season. Also admired for their ability to stay competitive and resilient through ups and downs. |
| Founded | 2008 |
| Home Ground | Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur |
Gujarat Titans (GT) – US$ 142 million
Gujarat Titans, valued at US$ 142 million, made a remarkable entry into the IPL by winning the title in their debut season (2022). They’ve since built on that momentum, balancing youth and experienced players. The Titans are also gaining popularity due to strong leadership, regional support in Gujarat, and strong performances. Their branding is modern, aggressive, and aspirational. Though newer than many teams, GT’s rapid rise in value reflects smart management and growing fan trust.
| Feature | Details |
| Brand Value (2025) | US$ 142 million |
| Captain | Shubman Gill |
| IPL Titles Won | 1 (2022) |
| Fan Base | Growing rapidly; strong support in Gujarat (especially Ahmedabad), good following nationally; boosted by marquee overseas signings and exciting performances. |
| Known For | Strong top-order batting (Gill, Buttler, Sudharsan), aggressive overseas recruits, modern infrastructure; rapid rise since inception. |
| Founded | 2021 |
| Home Ground | Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad (the world’s largest cricket stadium) |
Punjab Kings (PBKS) – US$ 141 million
Punjab Kings, with brand value of US$ 141 million, are a storied IPL franchise that combines passionate regional support with occasional flashes of success. They have made finals rarely, but their matches are often high-energy and their players prominent. PBKS enjoy committed fans, especially in Punjab and Punjabi diaspora. Their brand sees strength in culture, hitting big players, and entertaining cricket. Although not always consistent at the very top, their identity, colours, and fan loyalty keep them relevant in IPL’s business environment.
| Feature | Details |
| Brand Value (2025) | US$ 141 million (as per latest IPL franchise valuations) |
| IPL Titles Won | 0 – PBKS have not won the IPL title yet |
| Captain | Shreyas Iyer (appointed captain for IPL 2025) |
| Head Coach | Ricky Ponting (joined ahead of IPL 2025) |
| Home Ground(s) | Maharaja Yadavindra Singh Stadium, Mullanpur (also plays some home games in Dharamshala) |
| Known For | Exciting batting potential, high-profile auction buys, striving for their first trophy, loyal fanbase in Punjab, often strong in key matches but inconsistent over seasons. |
| Performance in 2025 | Finished the league stage in 1st position; made it to the Final (losing to RCB) |
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) – US$ 122 million
Lucknow Super Giants, valued at US$ 122 million in 2025, are among the newer franchises but already carving a distinct place. Making playoffs in early seasons, they have shown competitive promise. Their brand is growing thanks to regional pride (Lucknow), modern aesthetics, and a balanced squad. With increasing social media followers, consistent performances, and clear strategy, LSG is building momentum. They represent the future challenge to more established teams, combining freshness and ambition.
| Feature | Details |
| Brand Value (2025) | US$ 122 million |
| IPL Titles Won | 0 — LSG have not yet won an IPL title |
| Captain | Rishabh Pant (appointed ahead of the 2025 season) |
| Head coach / Mentor | Justin Langer (head coach) & Zaheer Khan (mentor) |
| Owner | RPSG Group (RP–Sanjiv Goenka Group) |
| Home Ground | Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow |
| Key Players | Rishabh Pant, Nicholas Pooran, Ravi Bishnoi, Mayank Yadav, David Miller, Aiden Markram, Mohsin Khan etc. |
The World’s Biggest Cricket Franchise in 2025
Based on financial valuation, global presence, and fan following, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) hold the crown as the biggest cricket franchise in the world in 2025.
- They boast the highest valuation.
- Their slogan “Ee Sala Cup Namde” (This year the cup is ours) has become a cultural phenomenon, trending worldwide during IPL seasons.
- A massive digital presence with 60M+ followers.
- Strong corporate backing from United Spirits (a subsidiary of Diageo).
While CSK and MI are close contenders, RCB’s financial strength and global expansion secure their top spot.
Final Words
Cricket has evolved into far more than a sport—it is now a global entertainment industry powered by billion-dollar franchises. The journey from city-based teams to worldwide brand empires highlights just how deeply the game connects with fans across cultures and continents. In 2025, the Mumbai Indians take the crown as the biggest cricket franchise in the world, thanks to their unmatched financial strength, consistent on-field performances, and successful global expansion into leagues like MLC and SA20.
However, the battle for supremacy is fierce. Chennai Super Kings continue to thrive with their legendary fan base, KKR leverage global branding with multiple league ownership, and RCB remain social media kings despite their hunt for a trophy. Emerging leagues in the USA and the women’s game also promise to shift dynamics in the years ahead.
As the cricketing world grows more interconnected, franchises will no longer just represent cities or countries—they will symbolize global communities of passionate fans. The next decade may bring new challengers, but for now, MI proudly holds the top spot in world cricket.
FAQs
Q1. Which is the biggest cricket franchise in the world?
As of 2025, the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) are the biggest cricket franchise in the world, with an estimated valuation of around US$ 269 million and a global fan base exceeding 60 million followers.
Q2. Who owns the top cricket franchises like CSK and MI?
- Mumbai Indians (MI) are owned by Reliance Industries, led by Mukesh Ambani.
- Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are owned by India Cements Ltd., headed by N. Srinivasan.
Q3. What makes a cricket franchise valuable?
The value of a cricket franchise depends on multiple factors, including team performance, fan following, sponsorship deals, broadcasting rights, merchandise sales, and brand visibility across leagues.
Q4. Which is the richest IPL team in terms of brand value in 2025?
In 2025, the Mumbai Indians remain the richest IPL team, followed closely by Chennai Super Kings, thanks to their financial strength, global sponsorships, and consistent popularity.
Q5. Are there cricket franchises outside of India gaining popularity?
Yes. Teams like Trinbago Knight Riders (CPL), Los Angeles Knight Riders (MLC), and MI Cape Town (SA20) are gaining significant traction outside India as franchise cricket expands globally.
Q6. Has any new team made a big impact in recent years?
Yes, MI New York in Major League Cricket and Gulf Giants in the UAE’s ILT20 have quickly built strong fan bases and shown how emerging markets are embracing franchise cricket.
Q7. Which cricket franchise has the most fans globally?
Globally, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI) lead the pack. CSK’s “Yellow Army” is one of the most loyal fan communities, while MI’s worldwide network makes it the most followed franchise overall.
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