How Much Money Does It Take to Become a Cricketer? The Right Method and Expenses

Becoming a professional cricketer is a dream for millions in India and across the globe. While passion, talent, and discipline are essential, financial investment also plays a significant role. From equipment and coaching to travel and tournament fees, the path to cricketing success involves both dedication and money.

In this article, we break down the right method to become a cricketer and explore the actual expenses at different stages of the journey.

🏏 The Path to Becoming a Cricketer

Here’s a simplified roadmap most aspiring cricketers follow:

1. Start Young (Ages 6–12)

2. Join a Cricket Academy

3. Play for School/Club/District Teams

4. Move to State-Level Selections (Under-16, Under-19)

5. Play for Ranji Trophy / National Tournaments

6. Get Picked for IPL or Indian National Team

Each step comes with different requirements—training, coaching, fitness, exposure, and finances.

💸 Total Cost to Become a Cricketer (Approximate Estimates)

⚙️ Breakdown of Key Investments

1. Cricket Equipment

• Bat: ₹3,000–₹20,000

• Pads, Gloves, Helmet, Shoes: ₹8,000–₹15,000

• Kit Bag: ₹2,000–₹5,000

• Clothing: ₹3,000–₹7,000

💡 Top-level players often use bats costing ₹30,000–₹1 lakh, but beginners can start with more affordable gear.

2. Cricket Academy Fees

• Local academies: ₹2,000–₹5,000/month

• Elite academies (like MS Dhoni Academy, Sehwag Academy): ₹10,000–₹20,000/month

🏆 These academies provide turf wickets, licensed coaches, match practice, and exposure.

3. Private Coaching & Camps

• Many young players opt for extra one-on-one coaching.

• Cost: ₹1,000–₹3,000 per session.

• Short-term elite camps (7–15 days): ₹10,000–₹50,000

4. Fitness and Diet

Cricket requires peak fitness. Expenses include:

• Gym membership: ₹1,500–₹5,000/month

• Nutritionist/Trainer: ₹10,000–₹30,000/year

• Protein supplements: ₹500–₹2,000/month

5. Tournaments & Travel

• Entry fees, jersey kits, umpires, scorer fees.

• Travel to other cities for selection trials or tournaments.

• Stay, meals, local transport.

🚄 Costs can increase significantly if matches are played out of state or at national level.

🧑‍🎓 School and College Cricket

Many players also grow through:

• CBSE/ICSE school tournaments

• University-level cricket

• Sports scholarships

🎓 Some schools and colleges offer free education and training to talented players.

💼 Cost vs Career Benefits

While the early stages can cost ₹1.5–5 lakhs per year, successful players may earn crores through:

• Domestic Cricket (Ranji Trophy): ₹35,000–₹60,000 per day

• IPL Contracts: ₹20 lakh to ₹20 crore/year

• National Team: ₹1 crore+ annual retainership + match fees

• Brand Endorsements: ₹50 lakh to ₹5 crore per brand

👉 Top players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and MS Dhoni have brand incomes in hundreds of crores.

💡 Tips to Manage Costs

1. Look for Sponsorships: Local brands or sports shops often support rising talent.

2. Use State Sports Quotas: For jobs, admissions, or funding.

3. Apply for Sports Scholarships: Many state governments and private institutes offer them.

4. Train under District Associations: Often cheaper than private academies.

🧭 The Right Method to Become a Cricketer

Step 1: Start Early (Age 8–12)

• Join a local academy

• Practice regularly and play local tournaments

Step 2: Focus on Fitness + Match Practice

• Join school/district teams

• Attend cricket camps

Step 3: Play Club & League Cricket

• Exposure to tougher competition

• Networking with coaches and selectors

Step 4: Participate in State Selections (U-14, U-16, U-19)

• Get into BCCI-recognized tournaments

• Perform well to catch the eye of scouts

Step 5: Play Domestic Cricket (Ranji, Syed Mushtaq Ali)

• Elite performances here open doors to IPL and Team India

🧾 Final Thought: Is It Worth the Investment?

✅ If you’re committed, disciplined, and passionate—yes.
✅ It’s not just about money—it’s about smart training, consistent practice, exposure, and mentorship.
✅ With proper planning, scholarships, and opportunities, even middle-class families can help their child become a cricketer.