Cricket is the second most-viewed sport in the world. The game has a large number of active audiences that view live matches either at live stadiums, television, or OTT. Its huge viewership around the world attracts several sponsors, thereby increasing the revenues of players, coaches, and cricket authorities to unbelievable amounts, at times running into crores. But while all eyes are on the players, there’s one most important figure on the field often not noticed – Umpires. They stand on the field for every ball and play an important role for the smooth conduct of the game.
With all the discussion about the salaries of the players, do you ever wonder how much the umpires make? Surprisingly, from international cricket to a high-profile league like the IPL, the umpires earn heavily. In this blog, learn about the salaries of umpires in both international cricket and the IPL to find out about the untold side of their earnings in the world of cricket! And also know how you can earn big like umpires from your home on top IPL and best cricket betting sites in India.
Types of Umpires:
In cricket, umpires play a crucial role in ensuring the game is conducted fairly and according to the Laws of Cricket. The main types of umpires include:
- Field Umpires: There are typically two field umpires in a match, one positioned at the bowler’s end and the other at the striker’s end. They make decisions on appeals for wickets, no-balls, and other on-field incidents, as well as keeping track of overs and deliveries25.
- Third Umpire: This umpire operates off the field and reviews decisions using video technology. Their responsibilities include adjudicating run-outs, stumpings, boundary calls, and other critical decisions that require video evidence.
- Fourth Umpire: Positioned off-field, the fourth umpire assists with administrative duties such as managing player substitutions and overseeing the match ball. They also handle logistical tasks like providing drinks to on-field umpires.
- Match Referee: While not an umpire in the traditional sense, the match referee oversees the conduct of the game, ensuring adherence to the ICC Code of Conduct. They do not make decisions affecting match outcomes but ensure fair play.
Categories of Umpires
Umpires are categorized based on their experience and level of play, ranging from domestic leagues to international matches:
- Elite Panel: This is the highest category, consisting of top umpires who officiate in international Test matches and One Day Internationals (ODIs). These umpires are often neutral to maintain impartiality.
- International Panel: This panel includes umpires who officiate in ODIs and Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) but may also serve as third or fourth umpires in Test matches. They are generally less experienced than those in the Elite Panel.
- Development Panel: This category focuses on nurturing upcoming talent in umpiring. Members may officiate in domestic competitions and work their way up through experience and training provided by governing bodies like the ICC.
Salary of Umpires in International Cricket
As far as international cricket is concerned, an umpire’s salary structure is never fixed, as it entirely depends upon their experiences, panel, and which matches they will be officiating. Elite Panel Umpires, for example, can receive anywhere between ₹25,00,000 – ₹80,00,000 every year. Even the match fees of these umpires are huge, where every Test match fetches them around ₹4,00,000, ₹2,50,000 for an ODI and ₹1,20,000 for a T20I. Adding extra bucks coming from major tournaments, their yearly income can easily cross ₹1,00,00,000.
On the other hand, International Panel Umpires, who are still finding their feet, receive a little lesser, ₹18,75,000-₹22,50,000 annually. Their match fees are lower as a consideration of their developing status in international cricket. Development Panel Umpires at the bottom rung receive less than ₹18,75,000 annually since they are still building their career.
In addition to these salaries, there are benefits such as fully covered travel and accommodations for tournaments, meal allowances, and incidental allowances. A few top umpires may enjoy sponsorship deals that add a touch of extra money to the total package.
Salary of Umpires in IPL (Indian Premier League)
Much like international cricket, in the IPL too, the salary of umpires is divided into two categories. The representatives from the ICC Elite Panel get much higher match fees. They get around ₹2,00,000 per match in an IPL game. But for the Development Panel, this stands estimated at around ₹60,000 approximately per match. These match fees sum up in a season, resulting in impressive amounts that these umpires earn.
An umpire, on average, officiates 20 matches per IPL season, which translates into an earning of approximately ₹40,00,000. Besides that, even the sponsorship deals with logos on the uniform of umpires add around ₹733,000 approx to the season. Also, with the salary increase for umpires in IPL 2025, these earnings are expected to rise further and increase their profits even more. In a typical IPL season, umpires are positioned to earn as much if not more than many uncapped players, whose base prices are slightly lower.
How to Earn Big From Cricket
Everyone is making big money from cricket—whether it’s the cricketers on the field or the umpires managing the game. So why shouldn’t you, as a fan, cash in too? By using your cricket knowledge, you can earn lakhs daily, just like them, by betting on your favorite matches. Betting on top cricket and IPL games can be a fun way to put your insights to the test and see how much your predictions can pay off.
The key is finding the top cricket and best IPL betting sites that offer user-friendly platforms, competitive odds, and a variety of betting options. These platforms not only provide multiple ways to bet but also give you the chance to win big rewards, bonuses, and prizes. Whether you’re betting on match outcomes, player performances, or other in-game events, the right site can help you maximize your earnings. In this TIBS (Top IPL Betting Sites) can help you. On TIBS, you can check out the best cricket betting sites in India and best IPL betting sites in India that are trustworthy and compatible with all your devices. TIBS offer you the perfect setup to turn your cricket knowledge into a rewarding experience. Along with the best cricket betting sites in India, you can read the cricket news and betting tips for free on TIBS.
Conclusion
Umpires play a crucial role in cricket, and their salaries reflect their importance in the game. From international matches to the IPL, their earnings vary based on experience, match types, and other factors like sponsorships. Elite umpires can earn impressive sums throughout the year, while even development umpires have the opportunity to make a significant income, especially during high-profile tournaments like the IPL. With salaries set to rise further in IPL 2025, umpiring in cricket remains a highly attractive profession. To explore how you can earn big from cricket too, check out TIBS, Top IPL Betting Sites, to find the top cricket and best online IPL betting sites.
FAQs
Q. 1) How much do international cricket umpires earn?
Ans: International cricket umpires on the Elite Panel can earn between ₹25,00,000 to ₹80,00,000 annually, with match fees and additional earnings from various tournaments.
Q. 2) What is the salary for umpires in the IPL?
Ans: IPL umpires can earn around ₹2,00,000 per match for Elite Panel umpires, while Development Panel umpires earn approximately ₹60,000 per match. Overall, they can earn around ₹40,00,000 in a season.
Q. 3) Will umpire salaries increase in IPL 2025?
Ans: Umpire salaries are expected to increase in IPL 2025, boosting their earnings even further during the tournament.
Q. 4) How do umpires’ salaries compare to players in the IPL?
Ans: Umpires can sometimes earn more than certain players, especially those who are sold at a base price or go unsold during the auction.
Q. 5) Can fans earn from cricket? Ans: Yes, fans can use their cricket knowledge to earn through betting on best cricket betting sites in India. Check out TIBS, Top IPL Betting Sites, for the best platforms to start winning.
