Cricket has grown into a huge business, and IPL teams are now seen as global sports giants. But the big question is—which is the biggest cricket franchise in the world when we look at value, trophies, and fans? Some people say it’s all about IPL titles, while others believe social media reach and worldwide support matter more.
Whether you are searching for the world No.1 cricket franchise team list or just want to know who is the biggest, one thing is clear: teams like Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings, and RCB are not only famous in India—they are loved across the world. In this blog, we will look at their journey and find out what makes these teams stand out.
What Makes a Cricket Franchise the Biggest in the World?
In modern cricket, a franchise’s success is no longer judged only by its performance on the field. The biggest names in the game today have become global brands, combining sporting excellence with business acumen, fan culture, and international reach. But what exactly makes one team stand out above the rest?
- On-Field Success
Championship titles still matter. Teams that consistently perform well, win tournaments, and stay competitive year after year earn respect, visibility, and credibility in the cricketing world. - Fan Following and Engagement
A strong, passionate fan base is one of the most powerful assets a franchise can have. Whether it’s packed stadiums, trending hashtags, or global fan clubs, the ability to connect with millions is a major factor in global recognition. - Brand Value and Revenue
Commercial strength matters just as much. Franchises with high brand valuations often attract top sponsors, media rights deals, and massive merchandise sales, putting them at the top of the financial ladder. - Global Presence
With leagues now operating in the U.S., South Africa, and the UAE, many top franchises are expanding beyond their home turf. Teams that invest internationally strengthen their brand and build new fanbases around the world. - Digital Reach
In the age of social media, how a team performs online reflects its popularity. The most followed franchises across Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube often mirror their global appeal and influence.
Top Biggest Cricket Franchise in the World (2025 Updated Data)
| Franchise | Estimated Brand Value (USD) | Social Media Followers (Total) |
|---|---|---|
| Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) | $269 million | 40M+ |
| Mumbai Indians (MI) | $242 million | 38M+ |
| Chennai Super Kings (CSK) | $235 million | 42M+ |
| Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) | $227 million | 32M+ |
| Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) | $154 million | 15M+ |
| Rajasthan Royals (RR) | $146 million | 13M+ |
| Delhi Capitals (DC) | $80 million | 20M+ |
| Gujarat Titans (GT) | $69 million | 9M+ |
| Lahore Qalandars | $25.1 million | 12M+ |
| Sydney Sixers | ~$20 million | 10M+ |
1. Royal Challengers Bangalore
| Feature | Details |
| Brand Value (2025) | $269 million |
| Social Media Followers | 21M+ on Instagram |
| Captain | Rajat Patidar |
| Coach | Andy Flower |
| Home Ground | M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru |
| Founded | 2011 |
| Owner | Royal Challengers Sports Private Ltd |
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is one of the biggest cricket franchises in the world. With a brand value of $269 million in 2025, RCB attracts fans with exciting matches, strong players, and a vibrant team spirit. Their first IPL title in 2025 and growing social media following show how popular and influential the team has become.
Achievements & Highlights
- IPL 2025 Champions: RCB clinched their first-ever IPL title in 2025, defeating Punjab Kings in a thrilling final.
- Record-Breaking Social Media Growth: Following their IPL victory, RCB became the first IPL team to reach 20 million Instagram followers, reflecting their growing fan engagement.
- Consistent Performance: Under the leadership of Rajat Patidar, RCB showcased remarkable consistency, securing the second position in the league stage and advancing to the final.
Read More: Top Richest Cricket Leagues
2. Mumbai Indians (MI)
Mumbai Indians (MI) stands as one of the secound biggest cricket franchises in the world, valued at $242 million in 2025. With five IPL titles to their name, MI is known for blending experienced players with emerging talent. Backed by Reliance Industries, the team has grown its global footprint with franchises in SA20 and Major League Cricket, making MI a truly international cricket brand.
3. Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand Value (2025) | $235 million |
| IPL Titles Won | 5 (2008, 2011, 2018, 2021, 2023) |
| Captain | MS Dhoni |
| Home Ground | M.A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai |
| Founded | 2008 |
| Fan Base | Yellow Army (one of the largest in IPL) |
| Known For | Consistency, loyalty, leadership |
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) is one of the biggest cricket franchises in the world, with a brand value of $235 million in 2025. Founded in 2008, the team has won five IPL titles (2008, 2011, 2018, 2021, 2023) under the leadership of the legendary MS Dhoni. CSK plays its home matches at the iconic M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai and is known for its loyal fan base, popularly called the “Yellow Army.” The franchise is celebrated for its consistency, strong team spirit, and strategic leadership, making it one of the most respected and popular teams in cricket globally
4. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) – Key Highlights
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand Value (2025) | $227 million |
| IPL Titles Won | 3 (2012, 2014, 2024) |
| Captain | Ajinkya Rahane |
| Home Ground | Eden Gardens, Kolkata |
| Founded | 2008 |
| Global Expansion | Teams in SA20 (KKR Cape Town) and Major League Cricket |
KKR’s brand value of $227 million in 2025 underscores their status as one of the most valuable franchises in the IPL. Owned by Knight Riders Sports Private Limited, KKR has expanded its global footprint with teams in SA20 (MI Cape Town) and Major League Cricket (MI New York). Their strategic investments and consistent performance have solidified their legacy in the world of franchise cricket.
5. Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) – Key Highlights
| Feature | Details |
| Brand Value (2025) | $154 million |
| IPL Titles Won | 1 (2016) |
| Captain | Pat Cummins |
| Fan Base | Growing, especially in South India |
| Known For | Bowling strength, young talents |
| Founded | 2012 |
| Home Ground | Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad |
While SRH may not yet rank at the very top of the world’s biggest cricket franchise team list, they have carved a unique identity that fans deeply admire. With a strong base across Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, the franchise is growing steadily in popularity. Their $154 million brand value and a dedicated following prove that they’re not far behind the franchises that lead in metrics like which cricket franchise has the most fans or revenue. On and off the field, SRH is a team on the rise.
6. Rajasthan Royals (RR) – Key Highlights
Representing Rajasthan with pride, RR combines regional loyalty with global ambition. Their inaugural IPL title in 2008 and constant presence in close contests have built a strong emotional connect with fans. While not currently topping the biggest cricket franchise in the world IPL rankings, their $81 million brand value reflects steady growth, strong digital outreach, and a clear vision for the future.
7. Delhi Capitals (DC) – Key Highlights
Delhi Capitals, previously known as the Delhi Daredevils, has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. Although an IPL title still eludes them, the team has consistently remained competitive, especially since its 2019 rebranding. Valued at $80 million, DC is recognized as one of the No 7 biggest cricket franchises in the world, known for nurturing young talent and delivering an aggressive, fearless brand of cricket.
8. Gujarat Titans (GT)
Gujarat Titans made one of the most memorable debuts in IPL history by winning the championship in their very first season in 2022. The team brought together a solid combination of emerging talent and experienced heads, quickly earning respect across the league. With a brand value of $69 million, GT may be the newest franchise on the list, but its impact has been immediate and impressive.
9. Lahore Qalandars (PSL) – Key Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand Value (2025) | $25.1 million |
| PSL Titles Won | 2 (2022, 2023) |
| Captain | Shaheen Afridi |
| Fan Base | One of the most passionate in Pakistan |
| Known For | Talent development, underdog spirit |
| Founded | 2015 |
| Home Ground | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore |
Lahore Qalandars are one of the most popular teams in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Founded in 2015, they play their home matches at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The team is led by star fast bowler Shaheen Afridi, who has become the face of the franchise. Although they struggled in the early seasons, Lahore Qalandars made a strong comeback by winning back-to-back titles in 2022 and 2023. The team is known for discovering and developing young talent and has built a very passionate and loyal fan base in Pakistan. Their underdog spirit and exciting performances have made them one of the most loved teams in the PSL.
10. Sydney Sixers (BBL) – Key Facts
Sydney Sixers are one of the most successful franchises in the Big Bash League (BBL), based in Sydney, Australia. Established in 2011, they play their home games at the famous Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). Led by experienced cricketer Moises Henriques, the Sixers have built a strong reputation for consistency and teamwork. They have won the BBL title three times (2011–12, 2019–20, 2020–21), making them one of the top-performing teams in the league. With a solid fan base in Australia and a squad filled with talented domestic players, the Sydney Sixers continue to be a dominant force in T20 cricket.
Conclusion: The Global Rise of Cricket’s Biggest Teams
From legacy teams like CSK and MI to emerging forces like GT, the landscape of franchise cricket is more competitive than ever. While brand value is one measure, what truly defines a franchise is its ability to connect, perform, and grow. One thing is clear: cricket franchises are no longer just teams — they’re global powerhouses shaping the future of the sport.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Which is the biggest cricket franchise in the world?
A: As of 2025, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) is considered the biggest cricket franchise in the world with a brand value of $122 million, thanks to their consistent success, loyal fanbase, and iconic leadership.
Q2. Which cricket franchise has the most fans globally?
A: Both Mumbai Indians (MI) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) are known for their massive global fan bases. RCB, in particular, has one of the most engaged digital audiences in franchise cricket.
Q3. Who owns the top cricket franchises like CSK and MI?
A: Chennai Super Kings is owned by Chennai Super Kings Ltd., while Mumbai Indians is owned by Reliance Industries through Indiawin Sports Pvt. Ltd..
Q4. What makes a cricket franchise valuable?
A: A franchise’s value is influenced by its on-field performance, fan engagement, sponsorship deals, digital presence, and brand expansion across global leagues.
Q5. Which is the richest IPL team in terms of brand value in 2025?
A: Chennai Super Kings leads the list with a brand value of $122 million, followed closely by Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore.
Q6. Are there cricket franchises outside of India gaining popularity?
A: Yes, franchises like MI New York, Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, and Texas Super Kings (owned by CSK group) are expanding globally through T20 leagues in the USA, UAE, and South Africa.
Q7. Has any new team made a big impact in recent years?
A: Gujarat Titans (GT), founded in 2021, made a remarkable debut by winning the IPL in 2022 and finishing runners-up in 2023. Their quick rise has added significant value to their brand.
