Top Cricket Franchises in the World

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) overtook Mumbai Indians to become the biggest cricket franchise globally in 2025. The team’s strong fan loyalty, steady performances on the field, and the lasting influence of MS Dhoni helped it rise. CSK is based in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, and competes in the Indian Premier League (IPL). It was one of the first eight teams when the IPL began in 2008.

The team is known for its consistent success and a massive fanbase called the "Yellove" community, which spans across continents. Home matches happen at the M. A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, also called Chepauk. This stadium draws large crowds and contributes significantly to the franchise’s income. Chennai Super Kings remains one of the most successful and popular teams in IPL history.

Mumbai Indians (MI) stayed a powerful franchise but moved to second place in 2025. Their brand remains strong worldwide with a large fan following. MI plays in the IPL and is based in Mumbai, Maharashtra. The team started in 2008 and is owned by Reliance Industries, one of India’s biggest companies.

MI plays home games at the famous Wankhede Stadium, which seats over 33,000 spectators. The franchise has a history of success, winning multiple IPL titles. It also expanded into other leagues like MI Cape Town and MI New York, broadening its global reach. Strong sponsorship deals help secure a steady income.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) remains a hugely popular team, even without winning an IPL title yet. The team is based in Bengaluru, Karnataka, and was one of the original IPL franchises formed in 2008. RCB is known for its star players and strong fan following.

RCB plays at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, which is famous for its energetic crowd. The team has one of the largest social media followings among cricket franchises, showing how much fans connect with it. Virat Kohli, one of cricket’s biggest stars, continues to be the face of RCB.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) maintains strong global appeal, especially in India and the Caribbean. Based in Kolkata, West Bengal, the team plays in the IPL and was founded in 2008. The franchise is owned by Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan and others, adding to its popularity.

KKR’s home ground is Eden Gardens, one of cricket’s most historic stadiums. The team mixes young talent with experienced players. Its celebrity ownership and clever recruitment keep the fanbase excited season after season.

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) grew fast as a franchise, gaining global attention by 2025. Based in Hyderabad, Telangana, SRH joined the IPL in 2012 after Deccan Chargers left. The team is owned by Kalanithi Maran of the Sun Group.

SRH won its first IPL title in 2016 by beating Royal Challengers Bangalore in the final. Known for spotting young talent, SRH continues to build strong squads. Its digital campaigns engage fans worldwide and sponsorships have increased, strengthening the brand.

Rajasthan Royals (RR) are famous for winning the first-ever IPL in 2008. Based in Jaipur, Rajasthan, the team is one of the original IPL franchises. RR is owned by Manoj Badale and The Royals Sports Group.

The team plays at Sawai Mansingh Stadium and is known for promoting young players who later became stars. With an active and engaged fanbase, RR mixes cricket success with unique brand partnerships to attract followers.

Delhi Capitals (DC) has grown stronger over the years through focus on youth and marketing. The franchise is based in Delhi and is owned by GMR Group and JSW Sports. It has been part of the IPL since 2008.

DC rebuilt its team and brand to become more competitive and attract younger fans. Its digital campaigns increase engagement and keep followers interested. The team plays its home matches in the capital city stadiums.

Gujarat Titans (GT) are one of the newest IPL franchises, but they gained quick success. The team was created to add fresh competition to the league and won an IPL title shortly after its start. GT plays in the IPL and is based in Gujarat.

The franchise is led by star players like Hardik Pandya and uses smart strategies to grow its fanbase. Social media engagement is strong and growing, signaling good future potential.

Lahore Qalandars is the strongest franchise in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). The team represents Lahore and has won the PSL multiple times. It is owned by the Rana Brothers and captained by Shaheen Afridi.

The Qalandars are famous for discovering new talent like Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf. They have active fan communities in Pakistan, UAE, and the UK. The franchise faces some challenges in sponsorship growth due to regional factors.

Sydney Sixers compete in Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL). The team plays home games at Sydney Cricket Ground and has a solid local following. The Sixers often reach the playoffs and have won the BBL title multiple times.

Known for their family-friendly image, the Sixers appeal mainly to Australian audiences. Their shorter season and fewer global stars limit wider international exposure.