Highest Paid Bowler: Unmasking the Unsung Heroes of Cricket
Cricket, often referred to as the gentlemen’s game, is undoubtedly one of the most celebrated sports in the world. While batsmen often steal the limelight with their swashbuckling strokes and match-winning innings, it is the unsung heroes of the bowling fraternity who play a pivotal role in the game. Among these skilled bowlers, a few stand out not only for their exceptional talents but also for the handsome salaries they command, making them the highest-paid bowlers in the cricketing world.
One such phenomenal cricketer is Australian fast bowler Pat Cummins. Dubbed the “million dollar man,” Cummins became the highest-paid bowler in the Indian Premier League (IPL) auctions when he was roped in by the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in 2020 for a staggering sum of INR 15.5 crores (approximately $2.18 million). Known for his electrifying pace, Cummins has justified his hefty paycheck with stellar performances on the field, making him a force to be reckoned with in the cricketing realm.
The South African superstar, Kagiso Rabada, is another bowler who towers over the rest in terms of remuneration. Rabada, renowned for his fierce yorkers and lethal swing, earned a multi-year contract with the Delhi Capitals (formerly Delhi Daredevils) in the IPL, amounting to INR 4.20 crores (around $590,000) annually. The young pacer’s ability to consistently produce match-winning spells has propelled him not only to the top of the ICC Test bowlers’ rankings but also to the top echelons of the earnings chart.
While the cash-rich Indian Premier League takes the lead in offering exorbitant salaries to bowlers, contracts from international cricket also contribute massively to a player’s earnings. The English cricketer, Jofra Archer, rose to prominence with his blistering speed and uncanny accuracy, impressing fans and pundits alike. His skills did not go unnoticed as the Rajasthan Royals (RR) acquired him for the IPL 2019 season for a princely sum of INR 7.2 crores (approximately $1 million). Archer’s meteoric rise has not only secured him a lucrative spot in the IPL but has also elevated his earnings significantly.
Lasith Malinga, a legendary figure in Sri Lankan cricket, undoubtedly deserves a mention in the highest-paid bowlers’ hall of fame. Known for his slingy action and unrivaled toe-crushing yorkers, Malinga is a true champion in limited-overs cricket. Over the years, he has made significant contributions to the Mumbai Indians (MI) franchise in the IPL, leading them to several victories. The Sri Lankan speedster’s reputation earned him a hefty paycheck of INR 8 crores ($1.12 million) in the IPL 2020 season, further solidifying his position as one of the highest-paid bowlers in the world.
While these bowlers have managed to secure lucrative contracts in the cricketing world, it is important to recognize the countless others who often go unnoticed despite their immense talent. Bowlers such as Jasprit Bumrah, Trent Boult, and Rashid Khan have consistently proven their mettle and contributed significantly to their respective teams’ success while being paid a handsome sum for their efforts.
The rise in the earnings of bowlers over the years is a testament to their immense value in the game. Bowlers are not just the providers of excitement and entertainment, but they are also the game-changers who steer the course of a match and lead their teams to glory. The considerable salaries they command reflect the recognition and appreciation they rightly deserve.
In conclusion, the highest-paid bowlers in cricket are a testament to the countless hours of hard work, skill, and determination that is required to excel in this demanding sport. These bowlers inspire both their teammates and fans, reminding us of the integral role they play in creating unforgettable cricketing moments. While the financial rewards of their success are undoubtedly significant, they are the unsung heroes who add depth and excitement to the gentleman’s game and remind us of the invaluable contributions made by bowlers, often overshadowed by the glory of their batting counterparts.