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Former Indian cricketer Navjot Singh Sidhu may have had an on-and-off presence in the commentary box in recent times, but his signature style — filled with dramatic flair and spontaneous metaphors — continues to find an audience. While some in the industry once speculated that Sidhu was a cost-effective choice, recent figures suggest otherwise.
According to sources familiar with the broadcaster contracts for international games, Sidhu commands the highest fee among Indian commentators, earning a hefty ₹15 lakh per day. Trailing him is former India captain and head coach Ravi Shastri, who reportedly draws ₹12 lakh per match day across his four commentary stints.
“The figures remain more or less the same during IPL games as well,” a source told CricBlogger on Friday.
These numbers reveal that Sidhu’s theatrical style — often debated, sometimes mocked, but never ignored — translates into serious commercial value in the cricket broadcasting world.
Sources revealed that Virender Sehwag, another former Indian cricketer, commands a fee of ₹10 lakh per day, while his Delhi statemate Ashish Nehra charges around ₹9 lakh. Another former India international, Irfan Pathan, is said to earn ₹7 lakh per day, whereas legendary former captain Sunil Gavaskar reportedly draws a fee of ₹6 lakh per day.
Even former wicket-keeper batter Dinesh Karthik isn’t far behind Gavaskar, earning around ₹6 lakh per day. Meanwhile, Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajay Jadeja are pegged at approximately ₹4 lakh per day. It is also understood that Harsha Bhogle receives nearly ₹3 lakh per day, making him one of the lower-paid commentators — largely due to not being a former international cricketer of repute.
*My comment*
I Had no idea about their pay packages. After knowing them from this blog I must say these former Cricketers are drawing their bonus now which they never received during their playing days. To know that Sidhu commands highest at cheque among the preferred commentators is no surprise. Some may mock his his style but, the sardarof metaphors keeps the interest alive throughout the match. It is no joke to keep the audience attentive for a long duration and he does well with aplomb. This reminds me of my stint as guest lecturer at a journalism institute. I handled sports journalism course. Many students wanted to become sports commentators after getting the degree from the university. My intention was not to persuade them but when I asked who are the sports commentators I got textbook definition. Most failed to get my cue. Finally I had to clarify that these days on every sports channel commentators are former players themselves. Why would a sports broadcaster who spends millions to acquire telecast rights hire a fresh graduate as a commentator, was my explanation. This , however, did not go down well with those who wanted to be sports commentators. I would suggest them to read this blog and know the reality of this profession.
With 90 % of cricket audiences in for entertainment , commentary is now flashy and loud bordering on clowning around. Gone are the days of analysis and clinical words , replaced with Vernacular and flowery lingo meant for entertainment. Loud dressing , comical use of tech in studio makes everything glitzy. Sheer fact Gavaskar and harsha bring up the rear , says all .
Seems to suggest that Hindi coverage is drawing greater viewership based on the salaries.
speaking off the commentry .. ENGLISH COMMENTRY IS STILL GOOD .. BUT HINDI COMMENTRY IS GETTING WORSE DAY BY DAY