Baap of IPL All Time: Top 10 Players Who Ruled the League
Baap of IPL All Time: Top 10 Players Who Ruled the League
Blog Article
The Indian Premier League isn’t just a cricket tournament—it’s a festival. It brings out raw passion, fierce competition, and unforgettable moments. But behind every trophy and every roaring crowd stands a legend. While Lalit Modi is known as the who is the father of ipl Father of IPL for launching it, fans have their own heroes they call the Baap of IPL.
So, who is the baap of IPL all time? Is it Dhoni with his calm finishes? Or Kohli with unmatched aggression? Let's break down the top 10 players who ruled the IPL like no one else. These players didn’t just play—they owned the league.
1. MS Dhoni – The Captain Cool Who Turned Into the Baap of IPL
Matches: 250+
Runs: 5,000+
Trophies: 5 (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, 2023)
Captaincy Wins: Most in IPL history
MS Dhoni is the first name that comes to mind when baap of ipl someone asks who is the baap of IPL. His finishing skills, calm attitude, and sharp captaincy have made Chennai Super Kings one of the most successful franchises.
Under his leadership, CSK rarely missed playoffs. He didn’t just win matches—he built a culture of loyalty, grit, and trust. Whether it's sending himself ahead of an in-form batter or pulling off last-over miracles, Dhoni made fans believe in magic.
2. Rohit Sharma – The Hitman With 5 IPL Titles
Matches: 240+
Runs: 6,000+
Trophies: 5 (2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2020)
Role: Captain & Opener
Rohit Sharma’s captaincy transformed Mumbai Indians into a powerhouse. He shares the top spot with Dhoni for most IPL trophies. But it’s not just his leadership—his performances in knockout games have been match-defining.
Rohit’s cool-headed decisions, consistent batting, and ability to step up under pressure make him a solid contender for the title of baap of IPL.
3. Virat Kohli – The Heart and Soul of RCB
Matches: 240+
Runs: 7,500+ (Most in IPL history)
Best Season: 2016 – 973 runs
If runs were the only factor, Kohli would be the undisputed baap of IPL. He’s the highest run-scorer in the league. In 2016, he smashed 4 centuries in one season—a record still untouched.
Though he hasn’t lifted the trophy yet, Kohli’s passion, aggression, and commitment have won millions of hearts. He’s the face of Royal Challengers Bangalore and continues to be the league’s biggest entertainer.
4. AB de Villiers – Mr. 360 Who Changed the Game
Matches: 180+
Runs: 5,000+
Strike Rate: 150+
Impact Factor: Always high
AB de Villiers was the X-factor for RCB. He could scoop, sweep, or send the ball 100 meters straight down the ground. No matter the match situation, if AB was in, hope was alive.
While he never won an IPL trophy, he gave fans something more valuable—thrills, goosebumps, and memories. That’s why many still call him the baap of IPL batting.
5. Lasith Malinga – The King of Death Overs
Matches: 120+
Wickets: 170+
Best Season: 2011 – 28 wickets
Economy: Just over 7
Malinga redefined death bowling. His toe-crushing yorkers gave nightmares to batters. He delivered when it mattered most—especially in the 2019 final when he defended 9 runs in the last over to win MI the title.
He may not be called the father of IPL, but he sure was the baap of bowling in his prime.
6. Suresh Raina – Mr. IPL
Matches: 200+
Runs: 5,500+
Fifties: 39
Fielding Points: Top-tier
Before others took over the charts, Raina was IPL’s most consistent performer. He had the most runs for several seasons and was CSK’s backbone. Whether it was fielding, batting, or leadership, he always gave 100%.
He didn’t just contribute—he carried his team through tough moments. Fans still miss his swagger and fearless approach.
7. Chris Gayle – The Universe Boss
Matches: 140+
Runs: 4,965
Centuries: 6 (Most in IPL)
Highest Score: 175*
Chris Gayle wasn’t just a cricketer—he was a force of nature. With the highest individual score in IPL history, he made bowling attacks look silly.
Gayle could change the game in 6 balls. His fearless six-hitting made him one of the most feared openers. Every time he walked out, fans knew something special was about to happen.
8. Sunil Narine – The Mystery Spinner
Matches: 160+
Wickets: 160+
Economy: 6.6
Role: Bowler + Pinch Hitter
Sunil Narine's mystery spin dominated teams for years. He was nearly unplayable on slow pitches and often bowled in the powerplay—a rare feat.
Later, he added pinch-hitting to his game and became a game-changer at the top. His versatility makes him one of IPL’s most valuable players of all time.
9. Andre Russell – The Six-Machine
Matches: 110+
Runs: 2,000+
Strike Rate: 175+
Wickets: 90+
Russell has the highest strike rate among players with 2,000+ runs. Whether it’s 50 off 15 balls or taking 4 wickets, he can do both in one match.
He won games from nowhere and became KKR’s ultimate weapon. For sheer impact in limited balls, few match Russell.
10. Jasprit Bumrah – The Modern-Day Bowling Legend
Matches: 120+
Wickets: 145+
Best Figures: 5/10
Economy: 7.2
Bumrah came in quietly and took over IPL with deadly yorkers, smart slower balls, and unmatched control. He grew under the guidance of Malinga and went on to become MI’s strike weapon.
Even with tough pitches and pressure games, he rarely had an off day. For consistency and match-winning spells, Bumrah is right up there with the greats.
What Makes a Player the Baap of IPL?
Not every player becomes the baap of IPL. To earn that tag, they must:
Consistently perform for several seasons
Win matches under pressure
Show leadership or finishing skills
Dominate both group stages and playoffs
Win or carry their team in crucial moments
This who is the father of ipl list shows that being the baap of IPL isn’t just about runs or wickets—it’s about delivering when it matters the most.
FAQs About the Baap of IPL and Father of IPL
Who is the baap of IPL in 2025?
As of 2025, MS Dhoni still holds that crown for most fans due to his legacy and records.
What makes someone the baap of IPL?
A mix of leadership, performance, clutch moments, and fan following makes a player earn that tag.
Who is the father of IPL?
Lalit Modi is considered the father of IPL. He was the brain behind starting the tournament in 2008.
Where do MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma rank in IPL history?
Both are top-tier legends. Dhoni leads in captaincy success, while Rohit leads in titles won.
Why do fans debate about who is the baap of IPL?
Because it’s not just stats. Fans connect emotionally with players, and different legends have different impacts.
How many players have 5 or more IPL titles?
Only a few—MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma are the most prominent ones.
Will someone break Kohli’s run-scoring record?
It’s possible, but unlikely in the short term. Kohli's numbers are staggering and still growing.