Celebrating 18 Years of IPL: Top Players and Moments in History

IPL's 18-Year Journey: A Celebration of Excellence

New Delhi [India], April 18: The Indian Premier League (IPL), recognized as one of the premier sporting events globally, celebrated its 18th anniversary on Friday. As the league embarks on another year, discussions are sure to revolve around its most outstanding players, unforgettable moments, and thrilling matches.

The conversation surrounding the league's top players is extensive. Throughout its history, numerous players, both Indian and international, have made significant contributions, elevating the IPL's status as a premier T20 competition. This league has provided a platform for many talented individuals to demonstrate their skills and secure positions in their national teams. Additionally, several international stars have enhanced their legacies through remarkable performances in the IPL, leading to team victories and individual accolades such as the Orange Cap for most runs and the Purple Cap for most wickets.

Here’s a look at ten of the most notable performers in IPL history, listed without ranking:

-Rohit Sharma (Mumbai Indians)

Rohit Sharma stands out as one of the most decorated players in IPL history, having secured six titles—one with Deccan Chargers in 2009 and five as captain of the Mumbai Indians (2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2020). He ranks third in all-time runs scored, amassing 6,710 runs at an average of 29.30 and a strike rate exceeding 131, including two centuries and 43 fifties, with a top score of 109*.

-David Warner (Sunrisers Hyderabad/Delhi Capitals)

The left-handed Australian batsman is the fourth-highest run-scorer in IPL history and the leading overseas player, with 6,565 runs in 184 matches, averaging 40.52 and a strike rate of 139.77, featuring four centuries and 62 fifties. His highest score is 126, and he is the only player to have won three Orange Caps for most runs in a season, leading Sunrisers Hyderabad to victory in 2016.

-MS Dhoni (Chennai Super Kings/Rising Pune Supergiant)

Another legendary captain, MS Dhoni has led Chennai Super Kings to five IPL titles (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, 2023). He ranks sixth in all-time runs with 5,373 at an average of 39.21 and a strike rate over 137, including 24 fifties and a best score of 84*. Dhoni also holds the record for the most dismissals as a wicketkeeper in the IPL.

-Virat Kohli (Royal Challengers Bengaluru)

At 36, Virat Kohli exemplifies loyalty, having remained with RCB since his teenage years, despite not yet winning an IPL title. He is the highest run-scorer in IPL history, with 8,252 runs in 258 matches, averaging 39.10, with eight centuries and 58 fifties. His best score is 113*, and he holds multiple records, including the most centuries in the tournament's history.

-Sunil Narine (Kolkata Knight Riders)

Sunil Narine has been a vital player for Kolkata Knight Riders since 2012, contributing to their three title wins. In 183 matches, he has scored 1,664 runs at an average of 17.33 and a strike rate over 167, alongside 187 wickets at an average of 25.25, with best figures of 5/19.

-Yuzvendra Chahal (Punjab Kings/Rajasthan Royals/Royal Challengers Bengaluru/Mumbai Indians)

As the leading wicket-taker in IPL history, Yuzvendra Chahal has claimed 211 wickets in 166 matches, averaging 22.73. He was part of the Mumbai Indians' title-winning team in 2013 and won the Purple Cap in 2022.

-Ambati Rayudu (Mumbai Indians/Chennai Super Kings)

Often underrated, Ambati Rayudu has won three titles with MI and three with CSK. He has scored 4,348 runs at an average of 28.23, with a best score of 100*.

-Kieron Pollard (Mumbai Indians)

The West Indies star played a pivotal role in MI's five title victories from 2013 to 2020, scoring 3,412 runs at an average of 28.67 and taking 69 wickets.

-Dwayne Bravo (Chennai Super Kings/Mumbai Indians/Gujarat Lions)

With three IPL titles, Dwayne Bravo has made a significant impact, scoring 1,560 runs and taking 183 wickets, making him one of the top all-rounders in IPL history.

-Lasith Malinga (Mumbai Indians)

Lasith Malinga, a loyal player for MI from 2009 to 2019, retired with 170 wickets and played a crucial role in MI's four title wins, also winning the Purple Cap in 2011.