The world of T20 cricket is dominated by two major leagues that have not only transformed the game but also redefined its commercial appeal — the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Pakistan Super League (PSL). While both tournaments offer thrilling cricket and showcase a mix of local and international talent, they differ significantly in scale, reach, and financial power. With IPL 2025 is currently taking place and PSL 2025 is set to begin today, a comparison of their prize money structures highlights the vast disparity between the two, offering a deeper look into how each league operates and rewards its top performers.

IPL 2025: The powerhouse of global T20 cricket

Launched in 2008, the IPL has firmly established itself as the world’s most lucrative and glamorous cricket league. Combining top-tier cricketing talent with the glitz of Bollywood, IPL 2025 features 10 competitive teams battling across 74 high-octane matches. The league drew a staggering 620 million viewers in 2024 and is backed by a whopping $6.2 billion media rights deal for 2023-2027. Its unmatched popularity and financial clout make it the gold standard for cricket leagues around the globe.

PSL 2025: Pakistan’s premier cricketing stage

Established in 2016, the PSL is the country’s flagship T20 tournament. It showcases emerging and established local players alongside international stars across six teams. PSL 2025 is set to begin on April 11, featuring 34 matches and continuing its growth trajectory with 150 million digital views in 2024. The PSL operates on a smaller scale with a $36 million media rights deal, but it remains a vital platform for fostering cricketing talent and national pride in Pakistan.

Prize money comparison between IPL and PSL

The difference in prize money between the IPL and PSL reflects the contrasting scales at which the two leagues operate. While the IPL boasts a multi-layered reward system that benefits not just the finalists but also teams finishing lower in the standings, the PSL adopts a more focused approach, primarily rewarding the top two teams. This comparison highlights the IPL’s financial depth and global appeal, whereas the PSL, though impactful in its own right, operates with a more modest prize structure tailored to its resources.

IPL 2025 prize money: Rewarding performance at all levels

The IPL’s financial muscle is evident in its generous prize structure, which not only rewards the champions but also incentivizes consistent team and individual performances.

Prize distribution:

• Winner: INR 20 crore (approx. $2.4 million USD)
• Runner-up: INR 13 crore (approx. $1.56 million USD)
• Third place: INR 7 crore (approx. $840,000 USD)
• Fourth place: INR 6.5 crore (approx. $780,000 USD)

PSL 2025 prize money: Focus on the finalists

The PCB has announced a simplified prize structure for the 2025 edition of the PSL, concentrating rewards primarily on the top two teams.

Prize distribution:

• Winner: $500,000 USD (approx. PKR 14.07 crore)
• Runner-up: $200,000 USD (approx. PKR 5.62 crore)