The Indian Premier League continues to grow as one of the most valuable sports leagues in the world. In 2026, two major franchise deals grabbed global attention when Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru were sold for record amounts.
Former England star Kevin Pietersen reacted to the news on social media, sharing his thoughts about how far the league has come since its early days. Pietersen also reflected on his own IPL journey, which began during the early years of the tournament.
Record Valuations for Rajasthan Royals and RCB
Two IPL franchises recently changed ownership at massive valuations, highlighting the league’s incredible financial growth.
Rajasthan Royals were sold for USD 1.63 billion, which is roughly INR 15,300 crore. Businessman Kal Somani secured complete ownership of the franchise.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru were sold for an even higher valuation of USD 1.78 billion, around INR 16,700 crore. The buying group included representatives from Aditya Birla Group, The Times of India Group, Bolt Ventures, and Blackstone’s BXPE.
IPL Franchise Sale Details
| Team | Valuation (USD) | Approx Value (INR) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rajasthan Royals | 1.63 billion | ₹15,300 crore | Kal Somani |
| Royal Challengers Bengaluru | 1.78 billion | ₹16,700 crore | Consortium led by Aditya Birla Group, Times Group, Bolt Ventures, Blackstone BXPE |
These deals show how IPL franchises have become some of the most valuable assets in global sports.
Kevin Pietersen’s Reaction to the News
Kevin Pietersen responded to the franchise sales through social media. He said it was incredible to see the current value of IPL teams and how much the league has grown over the years.
Pietersen also hinted that many people doubted the tournament when it first started. Seeing such large valuations now, he suggested, shows how successful the IPL has become.
His comments reflected both admiration for the league’s progress and a sense of nostalgia about its early days.
Also See : Ben Duckett IPL 2026 Controversy: Aakash Chopra Warns IPL Teams May Avoid Young English Players
Pietersen’s IPL Journey
Kevin Pietersen was one of the biggest stars of the IPL’s early seasons. In the 2009 auction, he was bought by Royal Challengers Bengaluru for USD 1.55 million.
At that time, the price made him one of the most expensive players in the auction. He shared the record with fellow England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff.
Pietersen’s IPL Auction Record
| Year | Team | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 2009 | Royal Challengers Bengaluru | USD 1.55 million |
Pietersen joined RCB as captain in 2009. However, his season was cut short because of injury, and he left the tournament early. RCB later reached the final under Anil Kumble but finished as runners-up.
Pietersen’s Strong 2010 Season
Pietersen returned to play for RCB in the 2010 season and delivered impressive performances with the bat.
Pietersen’s IPL 2010 Performance
| Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | 100s | 50s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 305 | 61.00 | 147.34 | 1 | 1 |
His performances included one century and one half-century, showing his ability to dominate T20 bowling attacks.
Pietersen’s Overall IPL Career
Apart from Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Pietersen also represented Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) and Rising Pune Supergiants during his IPL career.
Kevin Pietersen IPL Career Stats
| Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | 100s | 50s | Wickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 36 | 1001 | 37.07 | 134.72 | 1 | 4 | 7 |
Although primarily known as a batter, Pietersen also contributed occasionally with the ball, picking up seven wickets in his IPL career.
The massive valuations of Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru highlight how much the IPL has grown since its launch.
In the early years, the league was still finding its place in global cricket. Today, IPL franchises are valued in billions of dollars, attracting investors from across industries.
For players like Kevin Pietersen who experienced the early seasons, these record deals serve as a reminder of the league’s incredible journey.
