In big tournaments like the Indian Premier League, which goes on for nearly two months, team captains face a tough challenge to keep their spirits high and lead by example. They have to do a lot of thinking, planning, and team meetings, leaving them with little time to relax between matches like other players. However, this is what they’ve signed up for, and they thrive on it, despite how demanding it can be.
As we get ready for the 17th edition of the IPL, captains like Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni have already geared up for the exciting times ahead.
They are considered among the most successful captains in IPL history, excelling not only in leading their teams but also in leading by their own performance. At OneCricket, we’ve identified these exceptional captains who have not only guided their teams effectively but have also set the example on the field.
Most Player Of The Match Awards As Captain In IPL History
Now, let’s check out the top four captains who have received the most Player of the Match awards in the Indian Premier League’s history.
MS Dhoni – 16 Awards*
MS Dhoni, affectionately known as the “Thala” of Chennai, is not just one of the most successful captains in the IPL but also globally. Whenever he takes the field in the iconic Yellow jersey, he commands respect and adoration. Dhoni’s leadership has guided the CSK team to victory in the IPL title five times, along with a couple of Champions League titles.
When it comes to his IPL stats, Dhoni has amassed 5,082 runs in 218 innings, including 24 half-centuries, with his highest unbeaten score being 84. He’s renowned for his impeccable finishing skills for the Chennai Super Kings. As captain, Dhoni has been awarded the Player of the Match title 16 times, the highest by any captain in IPL history.
Rohit Sharma – 13 Awards
Rohit Sharma, the man behind Mumbai Indians’ five IPL victories, holds the record for the most successful captain in IPL history. He’s known for leading from the front, always putting the team’s needs ahead of his own. Rohit has been versatile for the Mumbai team, playing in various positions as required.
Although he’s passed on the captaincy to Hardik for the Mumbai Indians, Rohit still holds the second position with 13 Player of the Match awards. He’s also one of the top scorers in IPL history, with over 6,000 runs to his name. Rohit’s career is also studded with numerous sixes, showcasing his exceptional batting skills.
Gautam Gambhir – 13 Awards
“Once a Knight, always a Knight” holds true for Gautam Gambhir, who has returned to the Kolkata Knight Riders as the team’s mentor. Under his leadership, KKR clinched two IPL titles, making him a symbol of luck for the franchise. With his return, KKR fans are hopeful for another championship.
Despite retiring in 2018, Gambhir remains one of the most successful IPL captains. He amassed 4,217 runs in 152 innings, including 36 half-centuries. As captain, he earned 13 Player of the Match awards, placing him third in this record.
Virat Kohli – 11 Awards
Virat Kohli, the pride of the Royal Challengers Bangalore, stands as one of the greatest batsmen in IPL history. He holds the distinction of being the only player to surpass 7,000 runs in the IPL and boasts the highest number of IPL centuries. Despite leading the RCB team to the finals in 2016, he narrowly missed clinching the trophy.
Throughout his IPL career, Virat has amassed an impressive 7,263 runs, which includes seven centuries and 50 half-centuries. His exceptional performance places him fourth in terms of Player of the Match awards as captain, with a total of 11 awards during his tenure.
