Sunil Narine has been an important player in the Indian Premier League (IPL) since he joined Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in 2012. Known for his unique spin bowling, Narine quickly became one of the best bowlers in the tournament. His ability to outsmart batsmen with his variations has helped KKR win big matches and titles, including their victories in 2012, 2014, and 2024. Narine’s skill with the ball and his occasional contributions with the bat have made him a valuable asset to KKR.
Over the years, he has also mentored younger players, sharing his experience and knowledge. His strong connection with KKR’s owner, Shah Rukh Khan, has further strengthened his bond with the team. Narine’s total IPL earnings of ₹137.25 Crore are a reflection of his hard work and consistent performances.
Sunil Narine Total IPL Salary: ₹137.25 Crore
Sunil Narine, renowned for his exceptional bowling skills, has had a distinguished career in the IPL, playing for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) since 2012. Known for his mystery spin, Narine has been one of the most successful bowlers in the tournament’s history, consistently deceiving batsmen with his variations.
As of 2026, Narine’s total IPL salary stands at ₹137.25 Crore, accumulated over his long and fruitful career. His salary has reflected his immense value to the team, with consistent increments over the years based on his stellar performances. From 2012 to 2026, Narine’s salary progression shows the recognition of his growing stature in the IPL.
In his early years (2012-2013), Narine earned ₹3.52 Crore and ₹3.73 Crore, reflecting his promising debut season. His performances with the ball helped KKR win their first IPL title in 2012. As his performances continued to improve, his salary increased significantly, peaking at ₹12.50 Crore between 2018-2021. Over the next few seasons (2022-2024), while his salary dipped to ₹6 Crore, his role as one of KKR’s premier bowlers remained indispensable. As of 2025-2026, his salary stands at ₹12 Crore, showing his ongoing importance to the team.
Sunil Narine: Kolkata Knight Riders All Rounder
Sunil Narine has been a core player for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) since his debut in the IPL. With his unique bowling style and ability to break partnerships, he has been one of the best bowlers in the tournament’s history. His tight economy rate and wicket taking ability have made him an indispensable part of the KKR lineup, playing a pivotal role in their victories, including the IPL title in 2012, 2014 and 2024.
| Detail | Information |
| Full Name | Sunil Narine |
| Team | Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) |
| Role | Bowler |
| Batting Style | Left handed bat |
| Bowling Style | Right arm offbreak |
| Nationality | Trinidadian |
| Date of Birth | 26 May 1988 |
| Age | 37 Years |
| Birth Place | Arima, Trinidad and Tobago |
| Height | 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) |
| Zodiac Sign | Gemini |
| IPL Salary (2026) | ₹12 Crore |
| Total IPL Income | ₹137.25 Crore |
Year Wise Sunil Narine IPL Salary:
Sunil Narine’s salary has varied over the years, with notable spikes during his peak seasons. His salary reflects his importance to the Kolkata Knight Riders franchise and the consistent performances he has delivered.
| S.No | Year | Team | Salary |
| 1 | 2026 | Kolkata Knight Riders | ₹12 Crore |
| 2 | 2025 | Kolkata Knight Riders | ₹12 Crore |
| 3 | 2024 | Kolkata Knight Riders | ₹6 Crore |
| 4 | 2023 | Kolkata Knight Riders | ₹6 Crore |
| 5 | 2022 | Kolkata Knight Riders | ₹6 Crore |
| 6 | 2021 | Kolkata Knight Riders | ₹12.50 Crore |
| 7 | 2020 | Kolkata Knight Riders | ₹12.50 Crore |
| 8 | 2019 | Kolkata Knight Riders | ₹12.50 Crore |
| 9 | 2018 | Kolkata Knight Riders | ₹12.50 Crore |
| 10 | 2017 | Kolkata Knight Riders | ₹9.50 Crore |
| 11 | 2016 | Kolkata Knight Riders | ₹9.50 Crore |
| 12 | 2015 | Kolkata Knight Riders | ₹9.50 Crore |
| 13 | 2014 | Kolkata Knight Riders | ₹9.50 Crore |
| 14 | 2013 | Kolkata Knight Riders | ₹3.73 Crore |
| 15 | 2012 | Kolkata Knight Riders | ₹3.52 Crore |
| Total IPL Salary | ₹137.25 Crore |
2025-2026: Sunil Narine ₹12 Crore
In the 2025-2026 seasons, Sunil Narine’s salary remained consistent at ₹12 Crore. This reflects his sustained importance to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), even as he continues to perform at a high level. Narine’s ability to bowl economically and take crucial wickets in the middle overs has made him a key player in KKR’s lineup. His consistency with the ball, coupled with his invaluable contributions with the bat when needed, has solidified his position as one of the top earners in the IPL. His expertise in spin bowling remains unmatched, justifying the salary he receives.
2022-2024: Sunil Narine ₹6 Crore
During the 2022 to 2024 period, Sunil Narine’s salary was reduced to ₹6 Crore. While his pay decreased, his role within the KKR team did not diminish. Narine continued to provide key breakthroughs in the middle overs and showed his worth with excellent performances. Even with a reduced salary, he remained one of the most important bowlers in the IPL, helping KKR to stay competitive. His mystery spin and experience in pressure situations continued to be invaluable for the team, proving that even in the later years of his career, he was still worth every penny of his salary.
2018-2021: Sunil Narine ₹12.50 Crore
From 2018 to 2021, Sunil Narine earned ₹12.50 Crore annually, one of the highest salaries in the IPL during this period. His performances with the ball were pivotal in many of KKR’s successes, and his ability to contain opposition batsmen in the powerplay was unmatched. Narine’s economy rate and wicket taking skills made him one of the most feared bowlers in the IPL. This period also saw him being used more effectively as a pinch hitter at the top of the order, contributing in multiple roles. His consistency and value to KKR justified this substantial salary.
2014-2017: Sunil Narine ₹9.50 Crore
Between 2014 and 2017, Sunil Narine earned ₹9.50 Crore annually with KKR. During these years, he was at the peak of his career, regularly finishing as one of the leading bowlers in the tournament. Narine’s mystery spin bamboozled many top order batsmen, and his tight bowling during the middle overs was a key factor in KKR’s success during this time. His salary increase during this period was a recognition of his invaluable contributions, as he continued to perform consistently in the IPL. These years were crucial in establishing Narine as one of the best spinners in the IPL.
2013: Sunil Narine ₹3.73 Crore
In 2013, Sunil Narine’s salary was ₹3.73 Crore, marking his first significant contract with KKR. This was a breakthrough year for Narine as he emerged as a mystery spinner, which helped KKR win their first IPL title. His remarkable ability to outsmart batsmen with his varied deliveries made him a key figure for the team. Despite being a relatively unknown commodity at the time, Narine’s performances were exceptional, and he quickly became one of the most sought after bowlers in the IPL. His salary was a reflection of his early promise and outstanding performances.
2012: Sunil Narine ₹3.52 Crore
In 2012, Sunil Narine made his IPL debut with Kolkata Knight Riders, earning a salary of ₹3.52 Crore. Although new to the IPL, Narine made an immediate impact with his mystery spin bowling, helping KKR secure the IPL title that year. His exceptional ability to deceive batsmen with his flight and variations made him one of the standout performers of the tournament. His salary, while lower than what he would later earn, was a recognition of his early talent, and it set the stage for him to become one of the IPL’s premier bowlers over the next decade.
Narine’s Bond with Shah Rukh Khan:
Sunil Narine shares a strong bond with Kolkata Knight Riders’ owner, Shah Rukh Khan, built on mutual respect and success. Their relationship blossomed during KKR’s IPL victories, with Narine playing a crucial role in the team’s triumphs. This bond has been a key part of Narine’s journey in the IPL.
- A Shared Victory in 2012: Sunil Narine’s journey with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Shah Rukh Khan began with their win in 2012. Narine played a key role in KKR’s first IPL title, and it was a moment of immense joy for both the team and its owner, Shah Rukh Khan. This victory started a strong bond between Narine and Shah Rukh Khan, who both celebrated the win together as a team.
- The 2014 IPL Win: Narine’s partnership with KKR continued in 2014 when the team won their second IPL title. Shah Rukh Khan, who always praised Narine’s efforts, acknowledged his vital role in KKR’s success. During this time, Narine’s bowling was instrumental in KKR’s victories, and Shah Rukh Khan’s respect for him only grew stronger
- 2024 IPL Victory: In 2024, when KKR claimed their third IPL title, Narine’s bond with Shah Rukh Khan was once again in the spotlight. Narine’s experience and leadership on the field made him a guiding force for the younger players.
How Sunil Narine Helps KKR Team?
Sunil Narine has been a key player for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) since he joined the team in 2012. His bowling has been a big part of KKR’s success. Narine is known for his mystery spin, which confuses many top batsmen. He helps KKR by taking important wickets in the middle overs, often turning the game in KKR’s favor.
His ability to control the flow of runs and pick up key wickets makes him a valuable asset. Apart from his bowling, Narine also helps by contributing with the bat when needed, especially as a pinch hitter. Over the years, his experience has made him a mentor to younger players in the team, offering guidance both on and off the field. Narine’s all round skills and leadership make him a vital part of KKR’s strategy.
Awards and Recognition of Sunil Narine:
Sunil Narine’s career has been filled with many notable achievements. His consistent performances with the ball have earned him widespread recognition. Narine has been one of the top bowlers in IPL history, known for his ability to deceive batsmen with his varied deliveries. He has been a crucial player in KKR’s three IPL title wins (2012, 2014, and 2024).
- IPL Titles: 3 (2012, 2014, 2024)
Narine played a significant role in helping KKR win three IPL titles. - Most Valuable Player (MVP): 3 Times (2012, 2018, 2024)
He is the only player to win the MVP award three times, a recognition of his all around performances. - Purple Cap Contender:
Narine has been one of the top bowlers in IPL, regularly ranking among the best for wickets and economy rate, often in contention for the Purple Cap.
These awards and achievements highlight Narine’s lasting impact on KKR and his status as one of the most valuable players in the IPL.
Conclusion:
Sunil Narine’s journey in the IPL has been nothing short of remarkable. His consistency with the ball, crucial wickets, and all round contributions have made him one of the most valuable players in the history of the tournament. Narine’s bond with Kolkata Knight Riders and his strong relationship with Shah Rukh Khan have played a big part in his success. His three IPL titles, MVP awards, and impressive bowling stats are a testament to his skill and dedication. Narine’s total IPL salary of ₹137.25 Crore reflects his invaluable impact on KKR and the IPL as a whole.
FAQs:
Sunil Narine has earned ₹137.25 Crore in total during his IPL career.
Sunil Narine plays for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).
Sunil Narine’s IPL salary in 2026 is ₹12 Crore.
Sunil Narine is a right arm offbreak bowler known for his mystery spin.
Sunil Narine has been playing in the IPL since 2012, making him a veteran of the tournament.
Kiran is a cricket analyst and writer with strong expertise in the Indian Premier League and modern cricket. He closely follows match situations, player performances, team strategies, and season trends to deliver clear and accurate insights. Passionate about the game, Kiran enjoys exploring emerging talents, tracking auction movements, and sharing timely updates related to IPL and competitive cricket.
