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Indian swing maestro Bhuvneshwar Kumar is set to play for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. Tasked with spearheading their bowling attack, Bhuvneshwar carries the enormous responsibility of leading RCB to their maiden IPL title. His ability to swing the ball both ways and deliver under pressure will be pivotal for the franchise. RCB secured his services for 10.75 crore, making him one of the highest-paid bowlers in IPL history. The seasoned pacer will aim to live up to the expectations and finally end RCB’s title drought.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar: Consistency and brilliance in IPL
Bhuvneshwar has played 176 IPL matches, picking up 181 wickets at an impressive average of 27.23 and an economy rate of 7.56. Known for his sharp swing and pinpoint accuracy, he has two five-wicket hauls and a best bowling figure of 5/19. His standout IPL season was in 2016 when he took 23 wickets, playing a critical role in Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)’s maiden title victory under the leadership of David Warner surprisingly against RCB. Bhuvneshwar’s ability to perform in the powerplay and death overs has made him a key player throughout his career.
Bhuvneshwar’s salary in the Indian Premier League
1. Royal Challengers Bangalore (2009–2010)
Bhuvneshwar Kumar began his IPL journey with RCB in 2009. Although he had limited opportunities, his potential as a young pacer was evident. He featured in a handful of matches across two seasons, primarily as a backup bowler. During this stint, Bhuvneshwar picked up 3 wickets in 4 games with a best of 2/14, showcasing glimpses of his talent. Despite his minimal role, the experience laid the groundwork for his growth as a cricketer. His salary during this period was INR 6 lakhs annually, modest compared to his later contracts.
- 2009: INR 600,000
- 2010: INR 600,000
2. Pune Warriors India (2011–2013)
In 2011, Bhuvneshwar moved to Pune Warriors India, where he gained more exposure and responsibility. Over three seasons, he emerged as a reliable bowler for the franchise, picking up 24 wickets in 38 matches. His economy rate of 7.20 during this period highlighted his ability to contain runs in the middle overs. Despite the team’s struggles in the IPL, Bhuvneshwar’s performances stood out, making him a sought-after player. His salary at Pune started at INR 2 crores annually, reflecting his growing reputation in Indian cricket.
- 2011: INR 2,000,000
- 2012: INR 2,000,000
- 2013: INR 2,062,778
Also READ: Breakdown of Ajinkya Rahane’s IPL salary since debut
3. Sunrisers Hyderabad (2014–2024)
Bhuvneshwar’s association with Hyderabad was the defining chapter of his IPL career. Over 11 seasons, he became their spearhead, taking 154 wickets in 139 matches. His standout season came in 2016, where his 23 wickets were instrumental in SRH’s maiden IPL title win. Known for his death-over skills and ability to swing the new ball, Bhuvneshwar twice won the Purple Cap (2016 and 2017). His salary peaked at INR 8.5 crores and later finally settled to INR 4.2 crores annually for the last two years in the franchise after the rentention in 2023 , reflecting his immense value to the franchise.
- 2014: INR 42,500,000
- 2015: INR 42,500,000
- 2016: INR 42,500,000
- 2017: INR 42,500,000
- 2018: INR 85,000,000
- 2019: INR 85,000,000
- 2020: INR 85,000,000
- 2021: INR 85,000,000
- 2022: INR 85,000,000
- 2023: INR 42,000,000
- 2024: INR 42,000,000
