Preity Zinta, Shah Rukh Khan, Lachlan Murdoch among 7 of the most famous IPL team owners
The Indian Premier League is the pinnacle of franchise cricket globally. It’s packed with international superstars and Indian icons. It plays to a broadcast audience of millions, and it’s packed with glamour and glitz.
While the players are undoubtedly the main attraction, there are a lot of super-wealthy business people and celebrities who own teams, or shares in them.
With IPL 2025 just getting started, let’s take a moment to look at some of the big-name celebrities who own teams.
1. Shah Rukh Khan – Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
One of the biggest names in Bollywood, Shah Rukh Khan is a co-owner of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Through his company Red Chillies Entertainment, SRK has been associated with the franchise since the inception of the IPL in 2008.
KKR are the reigning IPL champions and one of the most popular teams in the league, with three IPL titles (2012, 2014 and 2024) under their belt. Khan’s star power has undoubtedly added to KKR’s allure, making them a fan-favourite team across India and beyond.
2. Preity Zinta – Punjab Kings (PBKS)
Bollywood actress and entrepreneur Preity Zinta has been one of the most hands-on owners in IPL history. As the face of Punjab Kings (formerly Kings XI Punjab), Zinta is frequently seen cheering passionately from the stands.
Known for her bubbly personality, Zinta’s involvement in the team has been constant since the IPL’s first season. Although Punjab Kings have yet to win a title, their 2014 run to the final remains one of the franchise’s high points.
3. Juhi Chawla – Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
Joining Shah Rukh Khan in ownership of KKR is actress and former Miss India, Juhi Chawla. The pair have shared a long-standing professional relationship, and together with her husband Jay Mehta, Chawla is a co-owner of the franchise.
While she may be a quieter presence compared to Khan, Chawla’s association with KKR adds another layer of star power to the team.
Also read: Listing every Indian Premier League century since 2017 – record number of tons in 2024
4. Nita Ambani – Mumbai Indians (MI)
Nita Ambani, wife of Mukesh Ambani (one of the richest men in the world), is the public face of Mumbai Indians (MI). While not a traditional celebrity in the entertainment sense, Nita Ambani is a significant figure in business, sports, and philanthropy.
Her active involvement in the Mumbai Indians, often seen cheering from the VIP stands, has made her synonymous with the franchise. Under her family’s ownership, MI has become the most successful team in IPL history with five titles to their name.
5. Jay Mehta – Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
Businessman Jay Mehta, husband of Juhi Chawla, is another important part of the KKR ownership group. A successful industrialist, Mehta brings business acumen to the franchise.
While he might not grab headlines like his celebrity partners, his role is crucial in the day-to-day operations and strategy of KKR.
6. Kalanithi Maran – Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)
Though not a celebrity in the traditional Bollywood sense, Kalanithi Maran is a media magnate and the owner of Sun TV Network.
His ownership of Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) since 2012 has provided the team with solid backing and resources. Under his stewardship, SRH lifted the IPL trophy in 2016 and have been regular contenders since.
7. Lachlan Murdoch – Rajasthan Royals (RR)
Lachlan Murdoch, the media executive and son of Rupert Murdoch, is a co-owner of Rajasthan Royals. As chairman and CEO of Fox Corporation, Murdoch brings significant business clout and global media connections to the franchise.
Rajasthan Royals, the inaugural IPL champions in 2008, have long been known for their focus on young talent and strategic thinking. Murdoch’s involvement adds a global dimension to their ownership group.
The Indian Premier League continues to blend cricket with entertainment, and the involvement of celebrities and business tycoons adds to its immense appeal. With the 2025 season underway, these famous faces ensure the IPL remains as glamorous off the field as it is competitive on it.