In India, a celebrity endorsement isn’t just about putting a famous face on a poster. It’s a lot more personal. For decades, people have looked at their favourite cricketers and movie stars not only as entertainers, but almost as family figures whose choices and words carry weight. So when one of them holds a product in their hand, there’s an instant sense of trust, sometimes even pride.
Now fast forward to 2025, and the scale has changed drastically. Brands have started spending more than ever, and the same big names are still bagging the biggest deals. Their mix of mass following, nostalgia, and reliability makes them priceless. A younger actor may go viral for a season, but it’s these established stars who continue to deliver results where it counts.
Let’s take a closer look at who the ten highest-paid brand ambassadors in India are right now.
From Bollywood to Cricket: Top 10 Highest-Paid Brand Ambassadors in India
The following list highlights the highest-paid brand ambassadors who are redefining celebrity influence in India.
Amitabh Bachchan — Decades of Influence
Amitabh Bachchan – Top Highest-Paid Brand Ambassadors in India
Estimated fee: INR 11–15 crore per campaign
Amitabh Bachchan has been the face of Indian advertising for decades. His credibility and commanding presence make him a favorite for sectors like healthcare, finance, and government initiatives. His association with Cadbury Dairy Milk, ICICI Prudential, and Just Dial showcases his enduring brand power.
Virat Kohli — Cricket’s Most Bankable Star
Virat Kohli – Top Highest-Paid Brand Ambassadors in India
Estimated fee: INR 10–11 crore per campaign
Virat Kohli remains the top choice for brands, thanks to his unmatched popularity and strong social media following. He consistently tops celebrity brand valuation charts, and his endorsements range from sportswear giant Puma to MRF, Manyavar, and several food and fintech brands. Companies pay premium rates for him because his credibility as a fitness icon and cricketing superstar translates into strong consumer trust.
Shah Rukh Khan — The Evergreen Superstar
Shah Rukh Khan – Top Highest-Paid Brand Ambassadors in India
Estimated fee: INR 5–10 crore per campaign
Shah Rukh Khan has been India’s “King of Endorsements” for decades, and that hasn’t changed in 2025. His universal appeal makes him the go-to face for premium as well as mass brands. He has represented Hyundai, TAG Heuer, Dubai Tourism, and several FMCG and lifestyle giants. When brands want instant recognition and a touch of legacy, SRK remains the safest bet.
Salman Khan — The Mass Market Magnet
Salman Khan – Top Highest-Paid Brand Ambassadors in India
Estimated fee: INR 4–10 crore per campaign
Salman Khan’s influence extends deep into India’s mass market, making him a powerful face for FMCG and personal care products. His association with brands like Pepsi, Revital H, and several grooming and apparel brands showcases his ability to connect with middle-class and rural India. His image of being relatable, yet larger-than-life, keeps his fees among the highest.
Deepika Padukone — The Global Icon
Deepika Padukone – Top Highest-Paid Brand Ambassadors in India
Estimated fee: INR 8 crore per campaign
Deepika Padukone is among the most sought-after female brand ambassadors, balancing Bollywood stardom with international recognition. She has represented Louis Vuitton, Cartier, Adidas, Levi’s, Tissot, Asian Paints, L’Oréal Paris, Dyson, Nestlé Nescafé, and Jio. Her association with both luxury and mass brands highlights her versatility. For marketers, Deepika brings not just glamour but also credibility, making her one of the highest-paid women endorsers in the country.
Allu Arjun
Allu Arjun’s – Top Highest-Paid Brand Ambassadors in India
Estimated fee: INR 6–7 crore per campaign
After the massive success of Pushpa, Allu Arjun’s brand value skyrocketed, making him one of India’s most expensive endorsers. He reportedly charges INR 6–7 crore per campaign, putting him in the same league as cricketing and Bollywood giants. With his stylish image and pan-India appeal, he has endorsed brands like Rapido, Frooti, KFC, and Hero MotoCorp. His unique connection with youth and mass audiences ensures brands see strong returns on their investment.
Sachin Tendulkar — The Iconic Cricket Legend
Sachin Tendulkar – Top Highest-Paid Brand Ambassadors in India
Estimated fee: INR 7–8 crore per campaign
Even years after retirement, Sachin Tendulkar’s brand power remains unmatched. He continues to endorse Visa, BMW India, IDBI Federal Life Insurance, and sports-related brands. His clean image and multigenerational fan base ensure that he still commands premium rates, making him one of the most respected endorsers in the country.
MS Dhoni – Top Highest-Paid Brand Ambassadors in India
Estimated fee: INR 4-6 crore per campaign
MS Dhoni’s calm demeanor, reliability, and legendary cricketing career make him one of the most trusted faces for Indian brands. His endorsements include TVS Motors, CEAT Tyres, Indigo Paints, and several financial and sports-related brands. Known for his clean image and broad appeal across age groups, Dhoni continues to be a favorite for campaigns targeting both families and youth audiences.
Ranveer Singh — Youth Icon with Energy
Ranveer Singh – Top Highest-Paid Brand Ambassadors in India
Estimated fee: INR 3–5 crore per campaign
Ranveer Singh’s infectious energy and flamboyant style make him one of the most exciting faces in advertising. He has endorsed Manyavar, Adidas, Head & Shoulders, and multiple fashion and grooming brands. His strong connection with younger audiences helps brands position themselves as bold, fun, and trend-forward.
Akshay Kumar — The Reliable Everyman
Akshay Kumar – Top Highest-Paid Brand Ambassadors in India
Estimated fee: INR 2-3 crore per campaign
Akshay Kumar’s disciplined lifestyle and relatable image make him a favorite across diverse categories. His endorsements include Policybazaar, Honda, Dollar Industries, and several health and wellness brands. For advertisers targeting middle-class families across India, Akshay remains one of the most reliable ambassadors.
Conclusion
India’s endorsement landscape in 2025 is a mix of youth, glamour, trust, and legacy. Cricket continues to dominate, Bollywood icons provide lasting influence, and regional stars like Allu Arjun are now commanding national attention. Female celebrities like Deepika Padukone show that versatility and international recognition can command top fees.
Ultimately, these ambassadors aren’t just faces for ads, they are the bridge between brands and millions of consumers, turning trust, popularity, and emotional connect into measurable business results. For brands, that influence is priceless, which is why these celebrities remain at the very top of India’s endorsement hierarchy.
Mahendra Singh Dhoni, fondly known as ‘Captain Cool’, has ruled the cricketing world with his sharp instincts and fearless leadership. From winning World Cups to being one of the most celebrated captains, his journey on the field is legendary.
But Dhoni’s story does not end with cricket. Off the field, MS Dhoni has made a name for himself with smart investments across various industries. Always on the lookout for great opportunities, his choices show a passion for growth. From tech startups to rising brands, Dhoni’s investments clearly reflect his forward-thinking approach.
In this article, let’s take a closer look at MS Dhoni’s investments and how the cricket legend is making waves in the business world.
MS Dhoni Investments List
MS Dhoni Invested Companies
Founded Year
Headquarters
Sector
BluSmart Mobility
2019
Gurugram, India
Electric Mobility
Tagda Raho
2021
Karnataka, India
Fitness & Wellness
Rigi
2021
Karnataka, India
Social & Content Monetization
Shaka Harry
2022
Mumbai, India
Plant-Based Food
Garuda Aerospace
2015
Tamil Nadu, India
Drones & Aerospace
HomeLane
2014
Bengaluru, India
Interior Design & Home Décor
7InkBrews
2020
Maharashtra, India
Food & Beverage
Khatabook
2018
Bengaluru, India
Fintech & Digital Payments
CARS24
2015
Gurugram, India
Automotive & Used Car Market
List of Companies Invested in by MS Dhoni
Here is a comprehensive list of Dhoni’s invested companies:
Garuda Aerospace
Garuda Aerospace – MS Dhoni Invested Companies
Mahendra Singh Dhoni first invested in Garuda Aerospace in June 2022, also becoming its brand ambassador. His initial investment amount was undisclosed. In February 2024, he topped up his investment, acquiring a 1.1% stake in the company with an INR 4 crore infusion. This move came ahead of Garuda Aerospace’s planned IPO. The Chennai-based startup, founded in 2015 by Agnishwar Jayaprakash, focuses on agriculture, defence, and industrial drones. Dhoni’s involvement highlights the potential of drone technology in India.
EMotorad
In April 2024, MS Dhoni invested in EMotorad, an electric bicycle startup based in Pune. Founded in 2020 by Kunal Gupta, Rajib Gangopadhyay, Aditya Oza, and Sumedh Battewar. Dhoni’s investment grants him equity in the company, and he also serves as its brand ambassador. This partnership aims to promote sustainable transportation solutions in India.
In November 2023, Dhoni invested in Tagda Raho, a Bengaluru-based fitness startup. Founded by Rishabh Malhotra, the company blends traditional Indian workout equipment with modern training methods. Their equipment and programmes have been adopted by professional teams like Lucknow SuperGiants, Haryana Steelers, and the National Cricket Academy. Dhoni’s involvement aims to revive traditional Indian workouts and promote a healthier lifestyle.
Rigi
Dhoni joined the list of investors in Rigi in January 2023. The Bengaluru-based startup, founded in October 2021 by Swapnil Saurav and Ananya Singhal, helps content creators monetise their communities. Rigi secured INR 100 crore in a funding round led by Elevation Capital, with support from Accel, Stellaris, Sequoia Capital, and others. The company plans to use the funds to expand globally and develop new tools for creators.
Shaka Harry
Shaka Harry is a plant-based protein brand owned by Liberate Foods, a Bengaluru-based company focused on sustainable food alternatives. Founded by Anand Nagarajan, Anoop Haridasan, Hemalatha Srinivasan, Ruth Renitha, and Sandeep Devgan, the brand offers vegetarian alternatives to meat, catering to the growing demand for plant-based diets. In October 2022, Dhoni invested in Liberate Foods to support Shaka Harry’s growth and promote alternative protein choices in India.
7InkBrews
In April 2021, Dhoni became a shareholder and brand ambassador for 7InkBrews, a Mumbai-based food and beverage startup. Founded by Mohit Bhagchandani, with co-founders Adil Mistry and Kunal Patel, the company introduced the Copter7 range of artisanal chocolates and beverages. The brand name and packaging draw inspiration from Dhoni’s iconic helicopter shot and his jersey number. Copter7 products were initially launched in Mumbai, Pune, Goa, and Bengaluru, with plans to expand to other regions.
Khatabook
Khatabook is a Bengaluru-based fintech startup that helps small businesses manage digital ledgers and streamline payments. Founded by Ravish Naresh, Dhanesh Kumar, Jaideep Poonia, and Ashish Sonone, the platform has gained significant traction among MSMEs. It has also received backing from investors like Sequoia Capital and Surge Ventures. In March 2020, Dhoni invested an undisclosed amount in Khatabook and became its brand ambassador to support its growth and expansion.
Cars24
In August 2019, Dhoni invested an undisclosed amount in Cars24, a Gurugram-based online platform for buying and selling used cars. Founded in 2015 by Vikram Chopra, Mehul Agrawal, Gajendra Jangid, and Ruchit Agarwal, Cars24 streamlines the process of selling pre-owned vehicles. Dhoni’s investment includes an equity stake, and he also serves as the company’s brand ambassador. This partnership aims to enhance Cars24’s brand presence and expand its reach across India.
HomeLane is a Bengaluru-based home interiors brand that provides end-to-end interior design solutions. Founded by Srikanth Iyer and Tanuj Choudhry, the company aims to simplify home furnishing with a tech-driven approach. It has expanded across multiple cities, catering to urban homeowners. In August 2021, Dhoni invested in HomeLane and signed a three-year contract as its brand ambassador.
MS Dhoni’s Family Office: Strategic Investments in Emerging Sectors
MS Dhoni’s family office is an active investment entity that manages the personal wealth of the former Indian cricket captain. Operating as a single-family office, it mainly focuses on early-stage investments, particularly Seed and Series A rounds, in Indian companies across various sectors. These investments show a strategic approach to supporting innovative companies that are bound for growth. Below is a summary of notable companies that have received investment from MS Dhoni’s family office:
Date
Company
Location
Sector
Round Details
Round Amount
Co-Investors
Mar 4, 2025
SILA Group
Mumbai
Real Estate
Strategic Investment
Undisclosed
Norwest Venture Partners, SILA Founders (Rushabh & Sahil Vora)
Sep 12, 2024
Centricity
Gurugram
FinTech
Seed
$20 million
Burman Family Holdings, Lightspeed, Ritesh Agarwal (OYO), Paramark VC, Aakash Chaudhry, NB Ventures
BluSmart is a Gurugram-based electric vehicle (EV) ride-hailing company offering sustainable transportation in India. It focuses on reducing carbon emissions by using an all-electric fleet and developing EV charging infrastructure. Dhoni invested in BluSmart in July 2024 through his family office, contributing to an INR 200 crore ($24 million) pre-Series B funding round. The round also saw participation from ResponsAbility Investments, ReNew founder Sumant Sinha, and BluSmart’s existing investors, supporting the company’s expansion and EV charging infrastructure.
End Note
MS Dhoni has invested in a variety of startups across technology, mobility, fintech, wellness, and sustainability. He has backed companies like Garuda Aerospace, EMotorad, Tagda Raho, Khatabook, and more, showing his interest in innovation and supporting India’s growing startup ecosystem.
Some of the notable MS Dhoni-invested companies include BluSmart, Garuda Aerospace, Rigi, EMotorad, Tagda Raho, and more.
Is MS Dhoni an angel investor?
Yes, MS Dhoni has invested in several startups as an angel investor, including Tagda Raho, 7InkBrews, HomeLane, and more.
What industries does MS Dhoni focus on for his investments?
MS Dhoni primarily invests in technology, mobility, fintech, sports, and consumer goods.
Does MS Dhoni own any businesses apart from his investments?
Yes, apart from his investments, MS Dhoni co-owns Chennaiyin FC (Indian Super League team) and has launched his lifestyle brand, SEVEN, focusing on sportswear and footwear.
How much did MS Dhoni invest in Gensol Engineering?
MS Dhoni invested in BluSmart, whose parent company is Gensol Engineering, in July 2024 through his family office, contributing to an INR 200 crore ($24 million) pre-Series B funding round. The round also saw participation from ResponsAbility Investments, ReNew founder Sumant Sinha, and BluSmart’s existing investors.
The thrill of an IPL auction is no less than the tournament itself— seeing your favorite team bidding for your favorite player is enough to spark excitement.
The Indian Premier League is not just a regular sports event— it’s a mega cricket festival. In a franchise sports tournament like IPL, auctions play a significant role as players list their contracts for sale, and the owner bids to buy them.
Over the years, the IPL auction has given the game of cricket many unknown faces who became big names and millionaires. The auction room has also witnessed star players being left unsold, franchises fighting for players, and millions and millions of dollars being spent on buying their services. As the wealthiest T20 league in the world, the Indian Premier League has seen it all.
Here is the list of IPL highest price player of all seasons.
During the inaugural season of the IPL, MS Dhoni became the most expensive player when Chennai Super Kings bought him for INR 9.5 crore. It wasn’t a surprise that Dhoni got the highest bid. The then captain of the Indian T20I team, who won the ICC 2007 T20 World Cup, MSD in 2008, was unstoppable— the aura, the performances, the stats— he was the best finisher of the game. That year, leading CSK to the finals, Dhoni amassed 414 runs in 16 matches with a healthy strike rate of 133.54 and an average of 41.40. Under his captaincy, CSK won 4 IPL titles in— 2010, 2011, 2018, and 2021. After playing in all the IPL seasons for CSK, the veteran keeper-batter has taken retirement from international cricket in 2020 and will serve CSK for the last time in 2023.
Most Expensive Players in IPL 2009 – Andrew Flintoff and Kevin Pietersen
The England duo of Andrew Flintoff and Kevin Pietersen were the joint most expensive players in IPL 2009.
Chennai Super Kings bought the English all-rounder, Andrew Flintoff for 9.8 crores INR, and Kevin Pietersen, the English top-order batsman, was bought by Royal Challengers Bangalore for the same price. But neither of the cricketers proved to be worth the money. Flintoff had his first and last appearance in India’s premier domestic league in 2009. After taking two wickets and playing three matches, he withdrew from the franchise because of a knee injury. Kevin Pietersen also had a difficult season with the bat– he totaled 96 runs in six matches. He last played in the IPL in 2016 for the Rising Pune Super Giants.
IPL 2010
Name
Shane Bond, Kieron Pollard
Team
Kolkata Knight Riders, Mumbai Indians
Price
Rs. 4.8 crore
Most Expensive Players in IPL 2010 – Shane Bond and Kieron Pollard
The 2010 IPL season saw a mini-auction of sorts with only 11 players ending up in the team shopping cart, with Shane Bond and Kieron Pollard sharing the tag of the most expensive player. Bond was bought by Kolkata Knight Riders and played eight matches for the Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2010, and the legendary Kiwi speedster had an impactful season. Clinching nine wickets at a decent economy rate of 7.22, he was outstanding throughout the season. But sadly, 2009 was Bond’s only appearance in the IPL. Shane Bond is the current bowling coach for the Mumbai Indians (MI).
Kieron Pollard was bought by Mumbai Indians and had impressed the franchise by amassing 273 runs at an explosive strike rate of 185.71. He had the best figures of the season – 2/24 – for the franchise. The dashing right-arm batter and MI regular played a pivotal role in winning the title four times. Alongshore Shane Bond, Pollard is the batting coach for MI in the IPL 2023.
Most Expensive Players in IPL 2011 – Gautam Gambhir
Following Gautam Gambhir’s match-winning 97 off 122 balls in the 2011 World Cup final against Sri Lanka, he had to be the most wanted player that season. KKR went for the big move as the Shahrukh Khan-owned franchise made its highest bid ever– INR 14.9 crores and became the most expensive player in IPL 2011. Gambhir did not disappoint the franchise and made 378 runs in 15 matches with an average of 34.36. Gautam Gambhir also led the side to its twin titles in 2012 and 2014 and is considered to be one of the top 10 most expensive player in IPL history.
Now retired, Gambhir has been appointed the mentor for the Lucknow franchise and the 2023 IPL– along with Andy Flower and Rahul– Gambhir is working as the head coach for the team.
IPL 2012
Name
Ravindra Jadeja
Team
Chennai Super Kings
Price
Rs. 12.8 crore
Most Expensive Players in IPL 2012 – Ravindra Jadeja
Ravindra Jadeja became the most expensive player in IPL 2012. Bought by Chennai Super Kings for INR 12.8 crore, the Indian all-rounder failed to impress the franchise during that season and made only 191 runs and took 12 wickets. Although he was retained by CSK management for the next season at a reduced price of INR 7 crores, Jadeja has been an indispensable part of CSK over the last decade. In the 2023 IPL, CSK retained Jadeja for INR 16 crores.
The Aussie big-hitter, Glenn Maxwell, was picked by the Mumbai Indians for INR 6.3 crores before he became a star player. After aggregating 36 runs in three matches, he was released from the team. The subsequent year, Maxwell played for Kings XI Punjab and smashed a phenomenal 552 runs in 16 games, at an astounding strike rate of 187.75 and an average of 34.50. The Punjab-based franchise bought his services again before IPL 2020 for INR 10.75. For the 16th edition of the IPL, in 2023, the Aussie player was bought by the Bangalore franchise for INR 11.00 crore.
IPL 2014
Name
Yuvraj Singh
Team
Royal Challengers Bangalore
Price
Rs. 14 crore
Most Expensive Players in IPL 2014 -Yuvraj Singh
India’s white-ball legend, Yuvraj Singh, got the tag of the most expensive player when he was bought for INR 14 crore by RCB at the 2014 IPL auction. He had a decent season with the Bangalore franchise, amassing 376 runs in 14 games and picking up five wickets with his left-arm spin. It was the only year when the Southpaw represented Bangalore. He is also the only Indian player who, twice in a row, won the bid for the most expensive player.
Following Yuvi’s incredible 2014 season, he was again named the most expensive player during the IPL 2015 auction. Bought by the Delhi Capitals team for INR 16 crore, he had failed to perform for the Delhi franchise. Amassing 248 runs in 14 matches with a strike rate of just 118.09, Yuvraj took only one wicket that season. He later represented Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Mumbai Indians (MI) before retiring after the 2019 edition.
IPL 2016
Name
Shane Watson
Team
Royal Challengers Bangalore
Price
Rs. 9.5 crore
Most Expensive Players in IPL 2016 – Shane Watson
The Australian all-rounder Shane Watson, bought by Royal Challengers Bangalore for INR 9.5 crore, was the most expensive player in IPL 2016. Although the Aussie player failed to impress with the bat and made only 179 runs in 16 matches, he was outstanding with the ball. Taking 20 wickets, Watson finished the season as the third-highest wicket-taker. In 2018, he represented CSK and even won the title with them that year. He is considered as the costliest player in IPL 2016.
Watson played his final IPL season in 2020 for Chennai, and in the same year, he announced his retirement from all forms of cricket. He stayed connected with cricket and joined Delhi Capitals as an assistant coach before the 2022 IPL season.
IPL 2017
Name
Ben Stokes
Team
Rising Pune Supergiant
Price
Rs. 14.5 crore
Most Expensive Players in IPL 2017 – Ben Stokes
Talismanic England all-rounder Ben Stokes played his debut IPL match in 2017 and was the most expensive player in IPL 2017. Sold to now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiant for 14.5 crores INR, the English all-rounder justified his high price tag and did well in his debut season. The 28-year-old amassed 316 runs in 12 matches at a phenomenal strike rate of 142.98 and an average of 31.60. He also made 12 scalps at an economy rate of 7.18, returning with the best figures of 3/18. He is also the second player who twice won the bid for the most expensive player.
Ben Stokes again won the tag of the most expensive player in the IPL 2018 auction when the Rajasthan Royals bought him for INR 12.5 crore. Unfortunately, he failed to perform under the new franchise and made only 196 runs in 13 matches with a strike rate of around 120. Despite his hefty price tag, Ben Stokes struggled to live up to expectations in the 2018 season. However, his acquisition remains a testament to the immense faith teams put in his talent and potential.
IPL 2019
Name
Jaydev Unadkat, Varun Chakravarthy
Team
Rajasthan Royals, Punjab Kings
Price
Rs. 8.4 crore
Most Expensive Players in IPL 2019 – Jaydev Unadkat and Varun Chakravarthy
The duo became an overnight sensation when they shared the tag of the most expensive player in the IPL 2019 auction. Jaydev Unadkat was bought by Rajasthan Royals and Varun Chakravarthy by Punjab Kings for INR 8.4 crore each. Unfortunately, players were unable to impress with their performance.
Unadkat, unable to justify his price tag, let Rajasthan Royals down as he claimed only ten wickets in 11 matches at a poor economy rate of 10.66. During the IPL 2023 mega auction, the Super Giants bought him at his base price of INR 50 lakhs.
Varun Chakravarty, who started his IPL career with a tag of INR 8.4 crore in 2019, failed to make an impact and played just 1 match for the Punjab-based franchise, where he took one wicket at an economy rate of 11.66.He was the most expensive player in IPL 2019 together with Jaydev Unadkat. Following his failures, Varun is currently KKR’s mystery spinner, and during the IPL Auction 2023, the Kolkata franchise acquired his services for INR 12.00 crore.
IPL 2020
Name
Pat Cummins
Team
Kolkata Knight Riders
Price
Rs. 15.5 crore
Most Expensive Players in IPL 2020 – Pat Cummins
In 2020, the Aussie fast bowler made history when he became the highest auction player in IPL history after the Kolkata Knight Riders bought him for INR 15.5 crores. But Cummins ended up having a moderate season, claiming 12 wickets, with most of them coming in the second half of the season, and made 146 runs with the bat. Pat Cummins was the most expensive player in IPL 2020.
Although the right-arm pacer was bought by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) during the IPL 2023 auction for INR 7.25 crore, the Aussie decided to skip IPL 2023 to take some rest ahead of Australia’s jam-packed cricket schedule.
The record of the most expensive IPL player was broken again in 2021 when Chris Morris became the most expensive player in IPL 2021 after the Rajasthan Royals bought him for a whopping INR 16.25 crores. The South African all-rounder claimed 15 wickets for Rajasthan Royals but had an economy of 9.17. The following year in January 2022, Chris Morris retired from all forms of cricket.
IPL 2022
Name
Ishan Kishan
Team
Mumbai Indians
Price
Rs. 15.25 crore
Most Expensive Players in IPL 2022 – Ishan Kishan
During the 2022 auction, Ishan Kishan became the second most expensive Indian player in the history of IPL after Yuvraj Singh. For INR 15.25 crore, he was bagged by Mumbai Indians. The Indian keeper-batter had a mixed campaign with the bat and concluded his season by scoring 418 runs with three fifties, despite MI finishing last in the points table.
IPL 2023
Name
Sam Curran
Team
Punjab Kings
Price
Rs. 18.5 crore
Highest Paid Player in All IPL Seasons – Sam Curran
The England all-rounder Sam Curran broke all records when he became the most expensive player in the history of IPL. During the 2023 auction, he fetched a whooping INR 18.50 crore bid from Punjab Kings after he recorded his best T20I figures— 5–10 against Afghanistan in 2022. Curran was part of the winning England team during the 2022 T20 World Cup, and he took the most wickets for England at the tournament and was named Player of the Tournament.
IPL 2024
Name
Mitchell Starc
Team
Kolkata Knight Riders
Price
Rs. 24.75 crore
Most Expensive Player in IPL History 2024 – Mitchell Starc
In the IPL 2024 auction, Starc was the center of a fierce bidding war, with multiple franchises vying for his services. Ultimately, the Kolkata Knight Riders emerged victorious, securing Starc’s signature for a staggering INR24.75 crore, the costliest player in the IPL auction history.
Starc’s exceptional performances in international cricket, particularly in the longest format, had made him a highly sought-after commodity. His ability to generate blistering pace, extract prodigious swing, and dismantle the best batting lineups in the world made him a prized asset for any team looking to bolster their bowling attack. He is considered to be the most expensive IPL player of all time. The Kolkata Knight Riders, who had struggled with their bowling in previous seasons, saw Starc as the missing piece to their championship puzzle. The franchise’s management was determined to secure the services of the Australian spearhead, understanding the immense value he would bring to their team.
IPL 2025
Name
Rishabh Pant
Team
Lucknow Super Giants
Price
Rs. 27 crore
Most Expensive Players in IPL 2025 – Rishabh Pant
Rishabh Rajendra Pant is an Indian cricketer who plays as a wicket-keeper batter for the Indian team. He also plays for Delhi in domestic cricket and captains Lucknow Super Giants in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Pant is known for scoring runs consistently in Test cricket. In the IPL 2025 auction, Lucknow Super Giants bought him for INR 27 crore. This bid is considered the highest bid in IPL history.
He was part of the Indian team that won the 2024 T20 World Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy.
Startups are a hard cookie to bite in. But for these Indian cricket players, it is just another pitch to show their talent. With this kind of dedication, practice, passion, and talent they have achieved the best in both the fields namely sports and business.
Indian cricket team players have been the face of numerous brands over the years. But with the startup culture flourishing and having a positive environment in the country, many cricket stars are showing interest in new ventures and are backing them up by investing both their time and money into business enterprises they believe are promising and relevant.
Here are some Indian cricketers who have invested in new-age startups:
Also referred to as the God of Cricket this batting maestro has been the face of various brands over the years. After a successful cricketing career of 24 years, Sachin retired in 2013 and started his second innings with several ventures. Here is a look at the startups he has invested in.
Musafir
It is a travel company based in Dubai and was founded in 2007. Sachin was both the stakeholder and the brand ambassador of the company. Sachin Tendulkar exited the company in 2018 with ₹25 crores.
Smaaash Entertainment
Sachin Tendulkar at Smaaash Launch
Founded in 2009 it is a sports simulation technology based on various games like cricket, football, racing, and other recreational activities. It also hosts leisure activities that include a lounge, a spa, dining and music for men, women, and children as well as a gaming mall. The company was shut down in 2020 as the pandemic hit.
Sachin and Sanjay Narang
Sachin collaborated with the famous hotelier Sanjay Narang of the Mars group and opened restaurants. They are situated in the Colaba and Mulund areas of Mumbai and one in Bangalore.
Kerala Blasters of Indian Super League
Sachin Tendulkar at Kerala Blaster Team Unveil
Sachin was the co-owner of the Kerala Blasters franchise of the Indian Super League along with other investors. It’s a football team and the Kerala Football Association has full faith in Sachin’s and his entry is said to bring funding and revival of the game itself in the state. In 2018 Sachin sold his entire stake of ISL Kerala Blaster.
Mumbai Franchise of International Tennis Premier League –
Sachin has been known for his passion for Tennis and is a long time fan. He is the co-owner of the newly-formed Indian Tennis Premier League’s Mumbai Franchise.
Smarton India
Sachin Tendulkar at Smarton Phone Launch
In 2016, Sachin invested in the Bengaluru-based Internet of Things (IoT) company Smartron India and came on board as the brand ambassador of the company.
Yuvraj Singh
After successfully combating a cancerous tumour in his left lung and winning the 2011 World Cup, Yuvraj Singh started his foundation, YouWeCan. Established in 2015, it spreads awareness about cancer and the effects of the dangerous disease.
This fabulous batsman of the International Indian Cricket Team has inspired millions with his on-field and off-field batting. In 2011 after winning the World Cup he was diagnosed with cancer but he made an international comeback just in a year with newfound enthusiasm and courage.
YouWeCan Ventures
A part of YouWeCan is the YouWeCan Venture which is an initiative to provide support to budding businessmen. The start was initiated with the help of Nishant Singhal who is both the co-founder and Chief Investment Officer.
In 2017, YouWeCan Ventures backed the online table reservation platform EazyDiner and Yuvraj Singh became the brand ambassador for the app. YouWeCan’s portfolio also includes healthcare marketplace Healthians, Bengaluru-based automotive services marketplace startup Cartisan, Gurugram-based Startup Buddy, an online marketplace for private jets and helicopters JetSetGo and startup incubators and media funds. He also owns a sports-based e-commerce store Sports365.
Virat Kohli is the captain of the Indian cricket team and also the new face of the Indian youth. He is one of the best batsmen in the world right now both on-field and off-field. Virat Kohli has earned accolades on the field and off-field made concrete plans for his retirement. Here is a look at some of Kohli’s Investments.
Wrogn
Virat Kohli started his fashion brand with co-founder Anjana Reddy. It is a youth fashion platform for graphic T-shirts, lightweight denim jackets and collar shirts.
Chisel Gyms
Virat Kohli at Chisel Gym Launch
Known as a fitness freak Virat Kohli has launched Chisel, a chain of fitness gyms and fitness centres. The startup recently introduced technology-enabled workout routines that aimed at addressing the youngsters of information technology workers.
UAE Royals
Virat Kohli at UAE Royals Event
It’s the franchise of the International Tennis Premier League. Virat is the co-owner of the franchise with Neelesh Bhatnagar and Sachin Gadoya. It has availed the 17 times Grand Slam Champion, Roger Federer.
FC Goa
Virat Kohli at FC Goa Launch
It’s the franchise of the Indian Super League and was the first investment made by Virat Kohli at the age of just 25 years. He is the co-owner of this ISL team and holds stakes of 12%.
Zeeva – MuveAcosutics
Virat Kohli – MuveAcoustics
Kohli partnered with Hong Kong-based consumer electronics companyZeeva in order to launch the audio equipment company MuveAcoustics in India.
The former captain of the International Indian cricket team’s both ODI and Test Cricket has ventured into multiple startups and businesses. Here is a look at some of the business ventures of MSD.
Ranchi Rays
It is a Hockey club franchise of the Hockey India League that is co-owned by Dhoni and the Sahara India Pariwar.
Chennaiyin FC
MS Dhoni at Chennaiyin FC Launch
It is a Football club franchise of the Indian Super League that is co-owned by Dhoni, Abhishek Bachchan, and Vita Dani.
Mahi Racing Team India
MS Dhoni at Mahi Racing Team launch
With his interest in bikes, Dhoni has co-partnered this World Super Bike Championship team with Akkineni Nagarjuna.
SportsFit
Dhoni has co-founded his fitness brand in 2012. Sports Fit World Pvt. Ltd is a gym franchise with several stores open and functional in India already.
Cars24
In 2019, M S Dhoni invested in the online used car marketplace Cars24 as a Series D investor.
SEVEN
MS Dhoni at Store Launch of Seven
MS Dhoni has also launched a lifestyle brand SEVEN and owns the shoe section of the brand.
Khatabook
The cricketer has recently invested an undisclosed amount of equity funding in the Bengaluru-headquartered business ledger app, Khatabook.
Anil Kumble
Anil Kumble is a former Indian cricket coach. He was one of the fourth-highest wicket-taker of all time.
Tenvic Sports
Anil Kumble co-founded TENVIC Sports with international table tennis player Vasanth Bharadwaj in 2010. The firm intends at rendering structured coaching to assist kids to stand out in a sport of their choice. It also caters to businesses and sports persons by providing training and mentoring, along with vision and ideas to help brands improve leverage in their marketing. Its clientele includes schools like Pearson and Delhi Public School. Corporate clients include IBM, Weber Shandwick, Accenture, Pepsi, HP, etc.
Kapil Dev was the captain of India’s first World Cup-winning team. He was a fast-medium bowler and a hard-hitting middle-order batsman. He was widely recognized as one of the greatest all-rounders to play the game, he is also regarded as one of the greatest captains of all time.
PeopleEasy.com
As an angel investor, Kapil Dev has invested in online grocery startup PeopleEasy.com.
Samco Ventures
Kapil Dev – Samco Ventures
In 2015, the former Indian cricketer turned into a venture investor after picking up a stake in Mumbai-based Samco Ventures.
WizCounsel
Last year, Delhi-based online market network WizCounsel raised INR 1 Cr in an angel round led by the cricketer among others.
VAOO
Kapil Dev – Vaoo
Kapil Dev has also invested in VAOO, a Mumbai-based cab aggregator which offers free rides to passengers in return for viewing advertisements.
Conclusion
Indian cricketers have invested in numerous startups. Some of them are well-known and recognized in India. These startups are successful and also help the people in need. Startups like YouWeCan is helping cure cancer patients. Such startups should be encouraged as they help in the betterment of society and people in need. Many cricketers are trying their hand in startups and helping society. We can see many more startups invested by Indian cricketers in future.
FAQ’s
Do cricketers invest?
Yes, many Indian cricket legends, like Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli have invested in various startups.
What business does Sachin Tendulkar have?
Sachin Tendulkar has invested in startups like Musafir and Smaaash entertainment. The god of cricket also co-owns Kerala Blasters.
MS Dhoni is the most iconic captain that Indian Cricket has ever seen. A journey which started from being a ticket collector to India’s most successful captain is something every entrepreneur should try to imitate. Dhoni has his unique leadership skill that can be useful to any entrepreneurs who are guiding a team or running a business. But there is a lot more behind the scenes of a man who inspired a common man to dream.
For a man hailing from a humble background, conquering the world seems like a fairy tale. Dhoni’s unparalleled success in a short span of time has been accomplished by being fearless in tough times. He has always delivered for the nation when it has mattered the most. The leadership qualities of MS Dhoni have won India three ICC trophies which in itself is a dream for any player leading the side. There is much to learn from Dhoni for leading entrepreneurs and managers.
Important Entrepreneurial Lessons from the Leadership of MS Dhoni
MS Dhoni’s 7 rules of Success to which Entrepreneurs can relate
Try Till You Die
Building a business is like playing in unknown territories. One has to be involved in every aspect of the business. MS Dhoni as a leader didn’t dwell down on successive test failures in England and Australia. Rather, he led India to a tri-series triumph in Australia. He treats each game a new one and with it comes a new challenge. Keeping a similar attitude could greatly help startup founders and leaders to achieve the desired results. Dhoni teaches that victory does not mean never falling, but rising every time you fall.
MS Dhoni
Keep Calm Under Adverse Situations
MSD is bestowed upon with “Captain Cool” by the cricket fraternity as he remains calm and composed even when things are not going his way. Everyone has to face up and downs no matter what your field is. But only a few have the ability to control the outburst of the emotions during tough periods. We rarely see him antagonized by bad deliveries, poor throws from the deep.
Every entrepreneur must inculcate his calm and patient approach to deal with the worst situations in a business. A calm leader radiates confidence in a team. A leader, who keeps calm in adverse situations, can think rationally and take appropriate decisions. Thus, a leader must learn to keep clam.
Lead From The Front
A great leader leads by example. Be it a failure or a success, a leader takes full responsibility. A captain has to play a huge role in a sport as Cricket and MSD have always been at the forefront. The skipper is the man behind all the strategies, team combinations and decisions. Batting up the order in 2011 World Cup Final was one such a move which showcased his leadership style and ability to take responsibility when his team needed the most. The same holds true for an entrepreneur as his leadership style decides the fate of the budding organization.
Bring The Best Out of Your Team
MSD has been one of the few leaders who understand the strengths and weaknesses of every individual of the team. Choosing Joginder Sharma to bowl the last over of a T20I final showcased his belief in a young individual and this belief took the best out of the bowler in the crunch moment. This won India their first T20I World Cup. The Right person for the right job has been Dhoni’s philosophy that every manager or company owner must follow to get the best talent within the team.
Above all those accomplishments as a leader and a player, there have been these innate traits that have earned MS Dhoni a name for himself. Seeing every success that a cricketer aspires to, he never got carried away with success. He hands over the winning trophy to his teammates which is his gratitude towards the contribution of every team member.
Tell your team that the success that the company has achieved wouldn’t have been possible without them. Acknowledging every team member imparts confidence in employees and motivates them to work harder.
Believe in your Instincts
MSD has been the most unorthodox cricketer that India has ever seen. As a batsman, he is not technically sound as Sachin Tendulkar or Rahul Dravid and neither his wicket-keeping style resembles cricketing manuals. He faced severe critics for his batting and keeping styles, but he always believed in his abilities and proved others wrong. As an entrepreneur, you must learn to believe in your instincts and move ahead fearlessly.
Final Words
Dhoni’s story has everything to inspire a generation. The numbers speak for the man. Two ICC World Cups, Test No. 1 and Champions Trophy is a rare feat in a captain’s kitty. Take a bow captain! A true servant of Indian Cricket and a true human being.
These are the leadership qualities of MS Dhoni that managers should learn:
Stay Calm
Stay Grounded
Lead from the Front
Encourage Others to Perform
Share the Credits
Where is from MS Dhoni?
MS Dhoni is from Ranchi.
What is special about Dhoni?
Dhoni is a right-handed batsman. He is known as the greatest captain of all time, having achieved more success than any other captain in the history of cricket. The Indian cricket team won the 2011 Cricket World Cup under his captainship.
Who is the Inspiration of Dhoni?
Hailing from a very small town of Ranchi, Dhoni dared to dream and with courage and guts make that dream a reality. Since a very young age, he idolized Sachin Tendulkar who is known as the God of Cricket and Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan.
Alan Joseph
