In Indian cricket, players may dominate headlines — but the real strategists often sit in the dressing room. Over the decades, the role of head coach has transformed from a low-profile advisory position to one of the most powerful and highly paid jobs in Indian sport.
Today, fans frequently ask: Who is the highest paid coach in Team India?
Let’s break down the salary evolution, compare major contracts, and see where legends like Rahul Dravid, Ravi Shastri, Gary Kirsten, and John Wright stand in the highest paid coach debate.
Why Coaching Salaries Increased Over Time
In the 1970s and 80s, Indian team coaches were not paid massive sums. Cricket was popular, but not yet the billion-dollar industry it is today.
With:
- The rise of satellite television
- IPL’s commercial explosion
- Global sponsorship deals
- Central contracts for players
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) significantly increased compensation packages — including for the head coach.
Highest Paid Coach in Indian Cricket: Full Salary Breakdown (1971–2026)
Rahul Dravid – The Highest Paid Coach (Reported)
When Rahul Dravid became India’s head coach in 2021, reports suggested he signed one of the biggest coaching contracts in Indian cricket history.
Salary Details (Reported)
- Tenure: 2021–2024
- Annual Salary: ₹10–12 crore
- Monthly Estimate: ₹80–90 lakh
- Format: All formats (Tests, ODIs, T20Is)
Based on widely reported figures from major Indian sports media outlets, Dravid is considered the highest paid coach in Team India history so far.
His role also extended beyond match days — focusing on transition planning, bench strength, and long-term squad development.
Gautam Gambhir – Matching the Benchmark?
Gautam Gambhir was appointed head coach in 2024.
Estimated Salary
- Reported Annual Package: ₹10–12 crore
Though official numbers are not publicly disclosed by BCCI, multiple reports suggest Gambhir’s contract is similar to Dravid’s.
If confirmed long-term, Gambhir could either match or surpass the previous highest paid coach record.
Ravi Shastri – The Previous High Earner
Before Dravid, the title of highest paid coach was widely associated with Ravi Shastri.
Salary Details
- Tenure: 2017–2021
- Annual Salary: ₹8–10 crore
During his tenure, India achieved major overseas Test victories, which strengthened his position and contract value.
Gary Kirsten – World Cup Winning Coach
Gary Kirsten coached India from 2008 to 2011 and led the team to the historic 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup victory.
Reported Salary
- Estimated around ₹2.5–4 crore per year
At the time, this was considered a strong international coaching package. However, compared to modern contracts, it is significantly lower than today’s highest paid coach figures.
John Wright – India’s First Foreign Coach
John Wright served as India’s head coach from 2000 to 2005 — the first foreign coach in Indian cricket history.
Reported Salary
- Estimated around ₹1–1.5 crore per year
During his tenure, India reached the 2003 World Cup final and became more competitive overseas.
Compared to current standards, Wright’s salary was modest — showing how dramatically the role has evolved.
Salary Comparison Overview
| Coach | Tenure | Reported Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Rahul Dravid | 2021–2024 | ₹10–12 crore |
| Gautam Gambhir | 2024–Present | ₹10–12 crore (reported) |
| Ravi Shastri | 2017–2021 | ₹8–10 crore |
| Anil Kumble | 2016–2017 | ₹6–7 crore |
| Gary Kirsten | 2008–2011 | ₹2.5–4 crore |
| John Wright | 2000–2005 | ₹1–1.5 crore |
Note: These figures are based on consistent media reports. BCCI does not officially publish exact contract amounts.
How Much Has Coaching Value Increased?
The difference between John Wright’s ₹1 crore era and Rahul Dravid’s ₹10–12 crore contract shows nearly a 10x increase in coaching salaries over two decades.
Reasons include:
- Massive IPL revenue
- Broadcasting rights worth billions
- Multi-format scheduling
- Increased performance expectations
- Advanced analytics and sports science integration
The modern head coach isn’t just a strategist — they’re a manager, psychologist, planner, and spokesperson.
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Final Verdict: Who Is the Highest Paid Coach?
Based on available reported data:
✔ Rahul Dravid currently holds the record as the highest paid coach in Indian cricket history.
✔ Gautam Gambhir is expected to be in the same salary bracket.
As Indian cricket’s financial ecosystem continues to grow, the next contract renewal could create an even bigger milestone in the highest paid coach category.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Who is the highest paid coach in Indian cricket?
Rahul Dravid is widely regarded as the highest paid coach in Indian cricket history, earning around ₹10–12 crore per year (reported).
Q2: What is Gautam Gambhir’s salary as India coach?
Gautam Gambhir’s reported annual salary is estimated to be between ₹10–12 crore.
Q3: How much did Gary Kirsten earn as India coach?
Gary Kirsten reportedly earned around ₹2.5–4 crore annually during his tenure (2008–2011).
Q4: What was John Wright’s salary as India coach?
John Wright reportedly earned around ₹1–1.5 crore per year when he coached India from 2000 to 2005.
Q5: Does BCCI officially disclose coach salaries?
No, BCCI does not publicly disclose exact salary figures. Numbers are based on media reports.
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