Best Captain in IPL | Top Five Most Successful Captains in IPL history
Indian Premier League (IPL) is one of the most competitive T20 leagues around the globe. The popularity of the IPL stems from the fact that some of the best players in the world feature under the same roof during the Indian summer. In such a league, captaining a team is not the easiest of jobs. However, some of the seasoned campaigners have aced in this role to be counted among the best captains in the IPL.
Here's a look at the top five most successful captains in IPL history with a minimum of 50 matches as captain:
5. Gautam Gambhir – Kolkata Knight Riders
M: 129, W: 71, L: 57, Win %: 55.42
One of the most aggressive captains in the IPL, Gautam Gambhir proved to be a valuable asset for Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2011. As captain, Gambhir led KKR to their maiden IPL triumph in 2012. He led by example and inspired the troops to a fruitful IPL campaign. Gambhir's form as an opener translated into his success as a skipper.
Even in IPL 2014, Gambhir was yet again instrumental in guiding KKR to another IPL win within two years. With two IPL trophies win, Gambhir ranks among one of the most successful captains in IPL history. In 129 matches as captain in IPL, the Delhi-born lad won 71 matches with a win percentage of 55.
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4. Shane Warne – Rajasthan Royals
M: 55, W: 30, L: 24, Tied: 1, Win %: 55.45
Shane Warne was the captain for Rajasthan Royals in the inaugural edition in IPL 2008. Leading one of the underdog teams of the tournament, Warne led the Jaipur-based franchise to glory in IPL 2008. He was a master at identifying young talent and carried a bunch of young boys with his experience to lift the IPL trophy in 2008.
He was at the helm of affairs for Rajasthan as a mentor, coach, and most importantly as the captain. In 55 matches that Warne captained during his IPL stint, his team could emerge victorious in 30 games with a win percentage of 55.
3. Sachin Tendulkar – Mumbai Indians
M: 51, W: 30, L: 21, Win %: 58.82
Despite his huge stature as an Indian cricketer, Sachin Tendulkar was never counted as one of the country's most successful captains. He didn't enjoy a successful stint as India captain during the late 1990s. However, when Mumbai Indians asked the Master Blaster to lead the IPL team, Sachin had a decent record leading the franchise.
He carried the side to the IPL final in 2010 before bowing out against a superior Chennai Super Kings. He was the Orange Cap holder in 2010 and ensured his performances helped his team in going far in that season. In 51 matches as captain, Tendulkar could emerge victoriously on 30 occasions with a win percentage nearing 59.
2. MS Dhoni – Chennai Super Kings
M: 195, W: 115, L: 79, Win %: 59.27
MS Dhoni, one of the greatest players in IPL history, holds the record for most matches as captain in IPL. Popularly known as ‘Thala', Dhoni has been a constant figure for Chennai Super Kings in all these years at the IPL. He has been a key figure behind their success in the last 12 years of the IPL.
With three IPL trophies in ten years, Dhoni is one of the most successful captains in the history of the league. In their comeback season in IPL 2018, Dhoni played a huge part in mentoring CSK through to an emotional season. In 195 matches as IPL captain, Dhoni has won 115 games with a win percentage of 59.
1. Rohit Sharma – Mumbai Indians
M: 123, W: 72, L: 47, Win %: 60.16
The most successful captain in IPL history, Rohit Sharma has led Mumbai Indians to five IPL triumphs in the eight years. Rohit has played an instrumental role in changing the fortunes of the franchise ever since 2013. Despite a few under-par seasons as a batsman, Rohit hasn't allowed his personal performances to hamper the success of his IPL team.
The Mumbaikar has always been an inspiring figure in the MI setup. He has allowed a few youngsters in Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, and others to grow along the way to become real match-winners for Mumbai Indians in the past few years. In 123 matches as IPL captain, Rohit has led Mumbai to wins in 72 matches with a win percentage of over 60. Some might argue, but Rohit Sharma can be regarded as the best captain in the IPL.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is the best captain in IPL?
Ans: As per the captaincy records, Rohit Sharma is the best captain in IPL. Rohit has led Mumbai Indians to five IPL title wins since 2013.