Indian Premier League (IPL) is not merely a cricket league it’s a cultural phenomenon, a business behemoth, and a theater of dreams. As the brand value of the league shoots up to a whopping $12 billion in 2025, the tales of its top seven franchises are stories of ambition, grit, and unrelenting pursuit of excellence. Let’s take a walk through the colorful history, success, and distinctive identities that make these teams the crown jewels of the IPL.
1. Chennai Super Kings: Yellow Brigade’s Golden Age
CSK will top the IPL summit in 2025 with a brand value of $122 million-a 52% increase over last year. For all of us fans like me, the vision of Chepauk’s ocean of yellow is a memory burned into every summer. For as long as they’ve been around since 2008, CSK’s consistency has been the stuff of legends: five IPL trophies, a reputation for developing talent, and the laid-back leadership of MS Dhoni, whose aura continues even as new stars rise. The “family” culture of the franchise and faithful fan following have made it a global cricketing brand.
2. Mumbai Indians: The Blue Billionaires
Trailing closely is Mumbai Indians, valued at $119 million with a 36% growth. MI’s journey is a masterclass in building a dynasty: five IPL trophies, a conveyor belt of Indian talent, and a glitzy ownership group. Watching MI play at the Wankhede is an experience where cricket meets Bollywood glamour. Their knack for unearthing match winners and their blue and gold identity have made them a household name far beyond Mumbai.
3. Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Glamour and Grime
RCB brand value has increased by an unprecedented 67% to $117 million, the most rapid ascendancy of the elite. In spite of never winning the IPL trophy, RCB’s devoted fan base cannot be rivaled. The sportsmanship in the Chinnaswamy Stadium’s charged environment, the stardom of Virat Kohli, and their “Play Bold” mantra have created a brand underpinned by hope, despair, and unflinching loyalty-a testament to the emotional bond that cricket can create.
4. Kolkata Knight Riders: Knights of Reinvention
Hot off their third IPL triumph in 2024, KKR’s brand name is synonymous with resilience and rebirth. Their purple and gold color scheme, the catchy “Korbo Lorbo Jeetbo” song, and owner Shah Rukh Khan’s charisma have helped take their brand to stratospheric heights. KKR’s resilience in face of adversity and commitment to fostering young talent have turned them into a force both on and off the field.
5. Sunrisers Hyderabad: The Rise of the Orange Army
SRH has seen the highest growth rate among all franchises in 2025-a whopping 76% increase to $85 million. Their championship victory in 2016 and steady playoff appearances have created a devoted “Orange Army.” What distinguishes SRH is their emphasis on bowling greatness and their ability to punch above their weight, rendering them a crowd favorite for fans who enjoy underdog tales.
6. Gujarat Titans: The New Powerhouse
Valued at $69 million, the Titans are new kids on the block no more but are already making waves by winning the championship in their first year (2022) and making another final shortly thereafter. Though their brand value hasn’t burst forth like some others, their instant success on the field is a harbinger of great things to come. GT is the new IPL franchise makeover ambitious, data based, and ready to create a lasting legacy.
7. Punjab Kings: The Eternal Optimists
Punjab Kings, with a brand value of $68 million and a 49% growth, are the league’s great survivors and reinventors. Despite a solitary final appearance in 2014, PBKS have kept fans hooked with their flair, colorful personalities, and bold moves-like appointing Ricky Ponting as coach and signing big names. Their journey is a lesson in resilience, always promising that next year could be “the year.”
Every franchise’s brand worth is greater than a figure; it’s an illustration of heritage, culture, and the emotional connections made with millions. From CSK’s golden past to RCB’s fervent troops, these teams are not merely cricket clubs-they’re symbols of hope and identity for a nation that’s cricket mad.
Written By Smita Singh
