Umpire Salary in IPL: How Much Do They Get Paid? (2025 Update!)
The Indian Premier League (IPL) is always celebrated as the best fair in cricket. Why? It is because of the perfect blend of glamour, thrill and thrilling play. From big sixes to brilliant bowling spells, players rule the headlines and fan chatter. But behind the scenes, there is a group of individuals whose decisions shape the outcome of the games and they are the umpires. In IPL 2025, the stakes for on-field officials have never been higher, and neither have the pay cheques.
While players are earning a fee of ₹7.5 lakh per match, umpires are not far behind in terms of big earnings. According to India Today, on-field umpires earn around ₹3 lakh per match, while the fourth umpire gets ₹2 lakh per match. These figures show the huge responsibility of umpiring in the world’s richest cricket league.
The Pressure and Perks of Umpiring in IPL
Being an IPL umpire is no ordinary job. Every delivery is scrutinised under ultra-edge technology, and millions of fans follow every close call. Whether it’s a marginal LBW, a controversial catch-by, or a difficult no-ball decision, an umpire’s call can change the course of a match.
The pay scale for umpires is in line with this pressure. ₹3 lakh for an on-field umpire and ₹2 lakh for a fourth umpire may seem modest, but it’s a huge sum for a job that demands quick decisions and strong nerves. It’s also worth noting that these officials are responsible for fair play under the watchful eye of social media.
Memorable IPL Umpiring Incidents
IPL 2025 has already seen a lot of drama, some of which revolved around the umpires’ decisions. A strange incident took place during the match between Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Mumbai Indians (MI).
In this match, SRH batsman Ishan Kishan tried to bowl a ball to Deepak Chahar. He missed the ball, which went to the leg side, and Chahar and his teammates were ready to bowl the ball again. Surprisingly, Kishan started walking back to the dressing room as if he had got an edge on the ball. Replays later confirmed that there was no contact between the bat and the ball.
This episode shows the pressure that umpires face in every match. Their calls are mocked by analysts, fans and players, and in IPL 2025, even a rare or confusing decision can go viral overnight. Â
Domestic Umpire Salaries
Away from the glitter of the IPL, local umpires also work hard. In tournaments like the Ranji Trophy, officials are prepared for a four-day match. They take important decisions without the glare of IPL cameras.
Local umpires earn ₹30,000 to ₹40,000 per day, which works out to around ₹1.6 lakh for a full match. Their work requires long hours, focus and precision, making them an integral part of the fabric of Indian cricket.
Comparing IPL and Domestic Umpire Pay
| Role | Match Fee (2025) | Approx. USD | Approx. INR |
|---|---|---|---|
| On-field IPL umpire | ₹3,00,000 | $3,650 | ₹3 lakh |
| Fourth IPL umpire | ₹2,00,000 | $2,430 | ₹2 lakh |
| Domestic umpire/day | ₹30,000-40,000 | $360-480 | ₹30k-40k |
| Domestic match total | ₹1,60,000 | $1,950 | ₹1.6 lakh |
From these numbers, it’s clear that IPL umpires earn more than their domestic counterparts. It reflects both the higher stakes and greater visibility of the T20 league.
IPL Umpire Salary Structure: 2025 Breakdown
| Role | Match Fee (2025) | Approx. USD | Approx. INR |
|---|---|---|---|
| On-field IPL umpire | ₹3,00,000 | $3,650 | ₹3 lakh |
| Fourth IPL umpire | ₹2,00,000 | $2,430 | ₹2 lakh |
| Domestic umpire/day | ₹30,000-40,000 | $360–480 | ₹30k–40k |
| Domestic match total | ₹1,60,000 | $1,950 | ₹1.6 lakh |
The IPL pays higher fees due to intense pressure, exposure, and responsibility. Whereas domestic umpires maintain cricket at the first-class levels.
Highest-Paid Umpires in IPL
Some umpires in IPL 2025 have become familiar faces thanks to their experience and accuracy. Here’s a look at some of the highest-paid umpires:
| Umpire Name | Per Match Fee | Estimated Seasonal Earnings | Total IPL Matches Officiated |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anil Chaudhary | ₹1,98,000 | ₹7,33,000 | 121 |
| Christopher Gaffaney | ₹1,98,000 | ₹7,33,000 | 77 |
| Nitin Menon | ₹1,98,000 | ₹7,33,000 | 94 |
| C. Shamshuddin | ₹1,98,000 | ₹7,33,000 | 89 |
| KN Ananthapadmanabhan | ₹1,98,000 | ₹7,33,000 | 65 |
| Bruce Oxenford | ₹1,98,000 | ₹7,33,000 | 64 |
Understanding IPL Umpires’ Earnings
Umpires are classified based on experience, reputation and performance. Elite umpires, who are part of the ICC Elite Panel, umpire in high-profile tournaments. Their per-match salary, along with seasonal allowances, reflects the trust placed in them to maintain fair play.
In addition to financial rewards, umpires are also responsible for accurate decisions and game management. Many have umpired in international matches, which adds to their credibility and experience.
IPL Umpire Salary Structure & Breakdown
1. Elite Umpires
Elite umpires are seasoned officials with years of experience, often officiating high-pressure matches.
- Earnings per match: ₹1,98,000
- Daily allowance: ₹12,500
- Examples: Nitin Menon, Bruce Oxenford
2. Developmental Umpires
These are the officials who eventually join the elite panel after gaining exposure in high-profile matches.
- Earnings per match: ₹59,000
- Examples: Anil Dandekar, Virender Sharma
3. Seasonal Earnings & Perks
- Seasonal Salary: Approximately ₹7,33,000
- Additional Benefits: Accommodation is provided to umpires to ensure they can perform without any hassle.
The Unsung Heroes of Cricket
Umpires are often the silent guardians of cricket, ensuring that the game remains fair and entertaining. From day-to-day decisions in domestic cricket to split-second calls in the IPL, their work is central to the game’s credibility.
In the IPL, the high fees recognise the pressure and responsibility of umpiring in front of millions of spectators. Domestic umpires, despite their low salaries, sustain Indian cricket by officiating fair, multi-day matches.
Lessons from IPL 2025
- The pressure advantage: The high stakes, pressure and visibility in T20 cricket mean that umpires in the IPL earn a significant increase in match fees.
- Technology is a double-edged sword: Equipment like Ultra-Edge helps in making fair decisions but also increases trust.
- Local umpires work just as hard: Despite being paid less, local officials help in developing the next generation of players.
- Public scrutiny is constant: Every close call is criticised online. This means umpires must maintain mental toughness along with quick decisions.
- Salary reflects responsibility: Ranging from ₹3 lakh in the IPL to ₹1.6 lakh in domestic matches, umpires’ salaries acknowledge the important role they play in cricket.
Conclusion
In the world of IPL 2025, most of the big players are focused on hitting sixes or delivering match-winning spells. However, umpires, whether on the field or as fourth officials, are just as central to the spectacle.
The next time you marvel at a flawless DRS call or a certain LBW decision, think of these unsung heroes. Their focus, composure and decision-making are essential in every IPL game, and in 2025, their salaries finally reflect their need in cricket.
Umpires may not hit sixes or celebrate wickets, but without them, the game would not be the same.
Also Read: Ranji Trophy Player Salaries: Salary Structure & Per Match Fees
FAQs
1. How much do on-field umpires earn in IPL 2025?
In IPL 2025, on-field umpires earn around ₹3 lakh per match. This is a significant salary considering that a T20 game lasts only 3-4 hours.
2. What is the salary of fourth umpires in IPL?
Fourth umpires handle tasks like player substitutions, pitch conditions, etc. and earn around ₹2 lakh per match.
3. Who are the highest-earning umpires in IPL?
In IPL 2025, top umpires like Nitin Menon, Bruce Oxenford, Anil Chaudhary and C. Shamshuddin earn around ₹1,98,000 per match and a seasonal salary of around ₹7,33,000.
4. How much do domestic cricket umpires earn in India?
Domestic umpires perform their duties in tournaments like the Ranji Trophy and earn ₹30,000 to ₹40,000 per day, which works out to around ₹1.6 lakh for a full match.
5. What benefits and facilities do IPL umpires get in addition to their match fee?
IPL umpires get seasonal salary, travel and accommodation allowances in addition to their match fee.
