Virat Kohli has made a remarkable start to the eighteenth season of the Indian Premier League (IPL), smashing a half-century in just 30 balls. Kohli’s earnings have grown significantly as one of the most successful players in IPL history. In the 2025 IPL season, he is earning a massive salary of Rs 21 crore from Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), marking a 40% increase from the previous year. But how much tax will he pay on this income? Let’s break it down.
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Virat Kohli’s IPL Salary Growth Over the Years
Kohli’s journey in the IPL began in 2008 when he was signed for a modest Rs 12 lakh. Over the years, his salary saw a steep rise:
- 2008-2010: Rs 12 lakh
- 2011-2013: Rs 8.28 crore
- 2014-2017: Rs 12.5 crore
- 2018-2021: Rs 17 crore
- 2022-2024: Rs 15 crore
- 2025: Rs 21 crore
Since his IPL debut, Kohli has earned Rs 179.70 crore from the league. His consistent performance and immense popularity have ensured that he remains one of the highest-paid players in the tournament’s history.
How is Kohli’s IPL Income Taxed?
Unlike salaried employees, IPL players receive payments under a contractual agreement. Kohli’s earnings fall under Section 28 of the Income Tax Act, 1961, classifying them as income from business or profession. Since his annual earnings exceed Rs 5 crore, he falls under the highest income tax bracket, which attracts a 30% tax rate.
Tax Calculation on Kohli’s IPL Salary
- Total IPL Salary (2025 Season): Rs 21 crore
- Income Tax at 30%: Rs 6.3 crore
This means Kohli will be required to pay Rs 6.3 crore in taxes on his IPL salary alone. However, this amount does not include other applicable charges like cess, surcharges, or additional income from endorsements and investments, which could further increase his tax liability.
Highest-Paid Players in IPL 2025
Kohli is currently the highest-paid player in RCB for the 2025 season. Following him are:
- Josh Hazlewood – Rs 12.50 crore
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar – Rs 10.75 crore
- New RCB Signings – Swastik Chikara, Manoj Bhandaj, Abhinandan Singh, and Mohit Rathi were acquired for Rs 30 lakh each.
Final Thoughts
Virat Kohli’s rise in IPL earnings is a testament to his exceptional skills and unwavering dedication to the sport. While his Rs 21 crore salary makes him one of the highest-paid cricketers in the league, a significant portion goes towards taxes. Despite this, his net earnings remain substantial, supplemented by brand endorsements, sponsorships, and other business ventures. As IPL salaries continue to soar, players like Kohli set new benchmarks in professional cricket earnings.
