Virat Kohli retires from Test Cricket, but his ₹1,050 cr empire roars on

Virat Kohli’s retirement from Test cricket signals the close of a remarkable era in Indian cricket. As one of the most prolific run-scorers and an aggressive leader, Kohli’s departure from the longest format of the game leaves a legacy few can match. But while his whites are being folded away, his off-field innings, marked by booming endorsements, brand power, and investments, continues stronger than ever.

A Money-Spinning Career

Kohli’s cricket earnings have been nothing short of massive. From his ₹7 crore annual BCCI A+ central contract to his per-match fees, ₹15 lakh for Tests, ₹6 lakh for ODIs, and ₹3 lakh for T20s, he’s had a steady flow of income from Indian cricket. However, the real jackpot came with the IPL. Since joining Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2008, his salary has surged from ₹12 lakh to ₹21 crore in 2025. His total IPL earnings now sit at a jaw-dropping ₹212.44 crore.

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The ₹1,050 Crore Man

Virat Kohli’s estimated net worth in 2025 is over ₹1,050 crore (approx. $125 million). This makes him one of India’s richest athletes. His massive wealth is a blend of cricketing income, brand endorsements, business ventures, and sharp financial acumen.

India’s Cricket Superstar

According to Kroll’s Celebrity Brand Valuation Report, Kohli’s brand value in 2023 was pegged at $227.9 million (nearly ₹1,900 crore), ahead of Ranveer Singh and Shah Rukh Khan. Despite the ever-changing celebrity market, Kohli’s brand surged 29% in one year, showing his unmatched connection with audiences and brands alike.

Endorsement Empire

Kohli has endorsed over 40 brands across various industries, from MRF Tyres to Audi, Myntra, Tissot, and Pepsi. His ₹100 crore deal with Puma marked the first such mega-deal for an Indian cricketer. MRF, too, renewed their partnership with Kohli in 2017 for ₹100 crore over eight years, sealing his status as a marketing phenomenon.

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As Kohli steps away from the red ball, the scoreboard of his financial and brand innings continues to tick at full pace.