Most Successful Captains in IPL History (2008 – 2024)

A cricket team consists of 11 players, including the captain, who leads the team and makes important decisions during the game. The captain’s role is key to the team’s success, especially in the high-pressure environment of the Indian Premier League (IPL). From 2008 to 2024, several captains have made their mark in IPL history by guiding their teams to victory. Let’s take a closer look at these remarkable leaders who have lifted the IPL trophy and earned the title of the Most Successful Captains in IPL History (2008 – 2024)..

List of Captains to Win the Indian Premier League (2008 – 2024)

1. 2008 – Shane Warne (Rajasthan Royals)

In the inaugural season of the IPL, Shane Warne, the only overseas captain, led Rajasthan Royals (RR) to their first and only IPL title. Despite a squad filled with lesser-known players, Warne’s leadership and strategic acumen guided RR to a historic win, making him the first captain to win the IPL trophy.

2. 2009 – Adam Gilchrist (Deccan Chargers)

Adam Gilchrist captained Deccan Chargers to their maiden IPL title in 2009. Under his leadership, the team transformed from wooden spooners in 2008 to champions in 2009. Gilchrist’s aggressive style and inspiring captaincy were instrumental in their victory over Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the final.

Team-wise Most Consecutive Losses in IPL history till 2024

3. 2010 – MS Dhoni (Chennai Super Kings)

MS Dhoni led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to their first IPL title in 2010. Known for his calm demeanor and sharp cricketing mind, Dhoni’s leadership was key in CSK’s success, marking the beginning of a golden era for the franchise.

4. 2011 – MS Dhoni (Chennai Super Kings)

Continuing his dominance, Dhoni led CSK to their second consecutive IPL title in 2011. CSK became the first team to successfully defend their title, cementing Dhoni’s reputation as one of the most successful captains in IPL history.

5. 2012 – Gautam Gambhir (Kolkata Knight Riders)

Gautam Gambhir led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to their first IPL title in 2012. His leadership style, characterized by aggression and determination, transformed KKR into a formidable team, culminating in their victory over CSK in the final.

6. 2013 – Rohit Sharma (Mumbai Indians)

Rohit Sharma took over the captaincy of Mumbai Indians (MI) mid-season in 2013 and led them to their first IPL title. His astute captaincy and ability to remain calm under pressure made him one of the most successful IPL captains.

7. 2014 – Gautam Gambhir (Kolkata Knight Riders)

Gautam Gambhir once again led KKR to glory in 2014, securing their second IPL title. His leadership and tactical brilliance were on full display as KKR defeated Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings) in a thrilling final.

8. 2015 – Rohit Sharma (Mumbai Indians)

Rohit Sharma continued his success with MI, leading them to their second IPL title in 2015. Despite a poor start to the season, Rohit’s leadership saw MI make a remarkable comeback, winning the title after a string of impressive performances.

9. 2016 – David Warner (Sunrisers Hyderabad)

David Warner captained Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) to their first IPL title in 2016. Warner’s aggressive batting and proactive captaincy were key factors in SRH’s success, as they defeated RCB in the final.

10. 2017 – Rohit Sharma (Mumbai Indians)

Rohit Sharma led MI to their third IPL title in 2017. His strategic decision-making and ability to inspire his team in crucial moments were instrumental in MI’s victory, making him one of the most successful captains in IPL history.

11. 2018 – MS Dhoni (Chennai Super Kings)

After a two-year suspension, CSK returned to the IPL in 2018, with MS Dhoni at the helm. Dhoni’s leadership once again shone through as he guided CSK to their third IPL title, reinforcing his legacy as a legendary captain.

12. 2019 – Rohit Sharma (Mumbai Indians)

Rohit Sharma led MI to their fourth IPL title in 2019, making them the most successful franchise in IPL history. His leadership was crucial in MI’s narrow one-run victory over CSK in the final, further enhancing his reputation as a master tactician.

13. 2020 – Rohit Sharma (Mumbai Indians)

Rohit Sharma continued his dominance by leading MI to their fifth IPL title in 2020. MI were the standout team throughout the tournament, with Rohit’s leadership playing a pivotal role in their success.

14. 2021 – MS Dhoni (Chennai Super Kings)

MS Dhoni once again showcased his leadership prowess by guiding CSK to their fourth IPL title in 2021. Despite a rough patch towards the end of the league stage, Dhoni’s calm and composed captaincy helped CSK peak at the right time.

15. 2022 – Hardik Pandya (Gujarat Titans)

Hardik Pandya led Gujarat Titans (GT) to the IPL title in their debut season in 2022. His all-round performances and inspirational leadership were key in GT’s remarkable journey to becoming champions in their very first season.

16. 2023 – MS Dhoni (Chennai Super Kings)

In 2023, MS Dhoni led CSK to their fifth IPL title, equalling MI’s record. Dhoni’s ability to lead by example and make crucial decisions under pressure was once again evident as CSK triumphed in the final.

17. 2024 – Shreyas Iyer (Kolkata Knight Riders)

Shreyas Iyer became the latest addition to the list of IPL-winning captains by leading KKR to their third IPL title in 2024. His leadership and consistent performances with the bat were instrumental in KKR’s success, as they defeated SRH in the final.

---

Most Successful IPL Captains by Games Played and Experience

A captain’s success is measured not only by the number of titles won but also by their consistency and ability to lead their team to victory over many seasons. Here’s a list of the most successful IPL captains based on their win percentage:

Rank	Player	Matches	Won	Lost	Win %
1	MS Dhoni (CSK/RPS)	226	133	91	59.37
2	Rohit Sharma (MI)	158	87	67	56.32
3	Virat Kohli (RCB)	143	66	70	48.56
4	Gautam Gambhir (DC/KKR)	129	71	57	55.42
5	David Warner (DC/SRH)	83	40	41	49.39
6	Adam Gilchrist (DC/KXIP)	74	35	39	47.29
7	Shreyas Iyer (DC/KKR)	55	27	26	50.90
8	Shane Warne (RR)	55	30	24	55.45
9	Virender Sehwag (DC/KXIP)	53	28	24	53.77
10	KL Rahul (KXIP/LSG/PBKS)	51	25	24	50.98
11	Sachin Tendulkar (MI)	51	30	21	58.82
12	Rahul Dravid (RCB/RR)	48	22	26	45.83
13	Kumara Sangakkara (DC/KXIP/SRH)	47	15	30	34.04
14	Kane Williamson (SRH)	46	22	23	48.91
15	Sanju Samson (RR)	45	22	23	48.88
16	Dinesh Karthik (DC/KKR)	43	21	21	50.00
17	Steve Smith (PWI/RPS/RR)	43	25	17	59.52
18	Yuvraj Singh (KXIP/PWI)	43	21	21	50.00
19	Saurav Ganguly (KKR/PWI)	42	17	25	41.67
20	Faf du Plessis (CSK/RCB)	38	21	16	56.75
21	Rishabh Pant (DC)	32	17	15	53.12
22	Kevin Pietersen (DD/RCB)	31	12	19	38.71