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Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Pakistan Super League (PSL) are two of the most popular and competitive T20 cricket leagues in the world. The IPL, established in 2008, has grown into a multi-billion-dollar global brand, attracting top players from acroꦬss the globe. On the other hand, the PSL, founded in 2015, has quickly gained traction and carved out its own niche, showcasing emerging talents alongside established stars. Both leagues have significantly impacted the commercialization of cricket, offering players substantial salaries and exposure. Despite their differences in scale and reach, both leagues contribute to the global growth of T20 cricket.
David Warner: A global T20 powerhouse making his PSL debut after dominating IPL
David Warner stands among the few cricketers who have successfully made an impact in both the IPL and now ready to take on PSL with the a chance of leading Karachi Kings in the 2025 edition, two of the most lucrative and competitive T20 leagues in world cricket. His career trajectory exemplifies the growing global nature of T20 cricket, where top players are not confined to a single league but instead have the opportunity to showcase their skills on multiple platforms. Warner’s inclusion in both leagues places him in a select group of cricketers who have had the privilege of playing in two of the most prestigious T20 tournaments. The IPL, with its multi-billion-dollar valuation, is often seen as the ultimate platform for T20 cricketers, providing unmatched exposure and financial rewards. On the other hand, the PSL, though newer, has quickly become a competitive and sought-after destination for top-tier cricketers, thanks to its rising reputation and passionate fanbase.
David Warner’s IPL Legacy
- Matches Played: 184
- Runs Scored: 6565
- Batting Average: 36.63
- Strike Rate: 140.58
- Centuries/Half-Centuries: 4 / 60
- Highest Score: 126
- Fours/Sixes: 601 / 216
- Orange Cap Wins: 2015, 2017, 2019
- Captaincy: Led Sunrisers Hyderabad to their maiden IPL title in 2016
Warner’s IPL Salary Overview:
- 2009-2013 (Delhi Daredevils): INR 15 Lakhs (Initial IPL salary)
- 2014-2017 (Sunrisers Hyderabad): INR 5.5 Crore per season
- 2019-2021 (Sunrisers Hyderabad): INR 12.5 Crore per season (Peak salary during prime years as captain)
- 2022-2024 (Delhi Capitals): INR 6.25 Crore per season (Reduced salary after declining form)
Warner’s PSL Salary Overview:
- 2025 (Pakistan Super League – PSL): Approx. INR 2.6 Crore ($300,000)
Also READ: List of cricketers who have wonꦑ both IPL and PSL trophies ft. Rashid Khan
Key differences between Warner’s IPL and PSL salary
1. Salary Amount:
- IPL: Warner’s salary in the IPL peaked at INR 12.5 Crore per season during his prime years (2019-2021). His salary fluctuated with his performance, starting at INR 15 Lakhs and gradually increasing over the years.
- PSL: Warner’s salary for his PSL debut season in 2025 is approximately INR 2.6 Crore, which is significantly lower than his IPL earnings.
2. Performance Impact:
- IPL: Warner’s salary in the IPL was heavily influenced by his consistent performances, leadership role, and status as one of the best T20 batsmen.
- PSL: His salary in the PSL reflects his debut status and the fact that the league offers lower salaries compared to the IPL, even for marquee players.
3. League Prestige and Revenue:
- IPL: The IPL is widely considered the most lucrative and prestigious T20 league globally, offering top-tier salaries to its players, including foreign stars like Warner.
- PSL: While growing in stature, the PSL’s salary structure is still considerably lower than that of the IPL, especially for debutant players.
4. Salary Growth:
- IPL: Warner’s salary saw consistent growth during his IPL career, especially during his time as SRH’s captain.
- PSL: Warner’s PSL salary is significantly lower, highlighting the contrast in earning potential between the two leagues.
