Virat Kohli‘s journey in the Indian Premier League (IPL) is a remarkable tale of growth, loyalty, and exceptional talent. Since debuting in 2008, Kohli has not only established himself as one of the greatest batters in cricket history but also as a central figure in the IPL, representing the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for over 15 seasons. His illustrious international career is highlighted by numerous records, including being the fastest player to score 8,000, 9,000, 10,000, and 11,000 runs in ODIs. As Kohli continues to shine on the field, his financial ascent within the IPL reflects his extraordinary contributions to the sport.
Early beginnings: A promising start
Kohli was first picked by RCB during the inaugural IPL season in 2008 for a modest salary of INR 12 lakh. This was a significant moment for the young cricketer, who had just captained India to victory in the U-19 World Cup. Despite his potential, Kohli’s salary remained unchanged for his first three seasons (2008-2010), reflecting both his youth and the initial struggles of RCB to find their footing in the league.
Recognition and rise: The turning point
In 2011, Kohli’s fortunes began to change dramatically when RCB recognized his potential and retained him for INR 8.28 crore. This marked a pivotal moment in his career as he transitioned from a budding talent to a key player for RCB. By 2013, Kohli was appointed as the team’s full-time captain, further solidifying his importance within the franchise.
Peak performance: Record-breaking seasons
The 2016 IPL season was particularly noteworthy for Kohli, as he scored an astonishing 973 runs, including four centuries. His stellar performance not only led RCB to the finals but also resulted in a substantial salary increase to INR 17 crore in 2018, making him the highest-paid player in the league at that time. This figure remained consistent until 2021, highlighting his status as one of cricket’s elite players.
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Adjustments during adversity: A humble gesture
The pandemic-affected 2022 season saw Kohli voluntarily accept a pay cut to INR 15 crore. This decision came alongside his resignation from captaincy, allowing him to focus solely on his batting. Despite these changes, Kohli continued to demonstrate his prowess by scoring 741 runs that season, proving that he remained a formidable force on the field.
Virat Kohli’s current status and future prospects
As we approach the 2025 IPL retentions list, speculation surrounded Kohli’s future with RCB. In the list, he came out to be a top retention priority for an anticipated salary of INR 21 crore. His consistent performance and immense popularity make him not only one of India’s highest-paid athletes but also one of the most-followed celebrities globally on social media platforms.
Summary of Virat Kohli’s IPL Salary Over the Years:
| Year | Annual Salary (INR) |
| 2008-2010 | 12 Lakh |
| 2011-2013 | 8.28 Crore |
| 2014-2017 | 12.5 Crore |
| 2018-2021 | 17 Crore |
| 2022-2024 | 15 Crore |
| 2025 | 21 Crore |
| Total | 209.2 Crore |
Kohli’s IPL salary trajectory reflects not only his growth as a player but also his unwavering loyalty to RCB. His journey from a young captain leading India to U-19 glory to becoming an IPL icon is a testament to his hard work and dedication. As he continues to break records and inspire future generations, fans eagerly await what lies ahead for this cricketing legend in both domestic and international arenas.