Every year, when the Indian Premier League (IPL) rolls around, there’s more than just cricket at stake. There are bragging rights, team rivalries, breathtaking moments, and of course—the million-dollar question: Who is the Baap of IPL? The word “baap,” meaning “father” or “boss” in colloquial Hindi, is often thrown around to describe the one who dominates, the one who defines the game, and the one who commands the most respect.
But in a tournament filled with records, legends, and game-changers, answering this question isn’t as simple as it seems. So let’s break it down, from individual players to teams, and understand what truly makes someone the “Baap of IPL.”
The Many Faces of Dominance in IPL
Before we crown anyone, let’s clarify one thing: the title “baap of IPL” doesn’t necessarily belong to just one person or team. It could refer to the highest run-scorer, the most successful captain, the franchise with the most trophies, or even the most impactful bowler. It all depends on how you measure greatness.
1. Virat Kohli: The Run Machine
If consistency with the bat had a face, it would be Virat Kohli. As of IPL 2025, he remains the highest run-scorer in the history of the tournament.
- Total Runs: Over 7,500
- Centuries: 7 (including a record-breaking season in 2016)
- Team: Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)
Kohli’s passion, aggression, and unwavering commitment to RCB have earned him a cult following. While he may not have lifted the trophy, his individual brilliance makes a strong case for him being the “baap” when it comes to batting.
2. MS Dhoni: The Captain Cool
Talk about leadership and finishing skills, and you cannot ignore Mahendra Singh Dhoni. Under his captaincy, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have lifted the trophy five times (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, and 2023), tying with Mumbai Indians for the most IPL titles.
- Titles as Captain: 5
- Most Matches as Captain: 200+
- Match-winning Finishes: Countless
Dhoni’s calm demeanor, game-reading skills, and legendary finishing abilities have made him the spiritual baap of the IPL. Ask any CSK fan, and they’ll tell you—Thala is the heartbeat of the league.
3. Rohit Sharma: The Trophy Collector
If trophies are your metric, Rohit Sharma deserves a serious nod. The Mumbai Indians skipper has led his team to five titles (2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2020).
- Titles as Captain: 5
- Runs Scored: 6,000+
- Team: Mumbai Indians
Rohit’s calm yet assertive leadership has turned MI into one of the most consistent and feared franchises. You could argue that if IPL were a kingdom, Rohit would be the king.
4. AB de Villiers: The People’s Champion
He might have retired, but AB de Villiers‘ legacy lives on. His ability to innovate, entertain, and deliver under pressure made him one of the most loved foreign players in the IPL.
- Runs: 5,000+
- Strike Rate: 150+
- Team: RCB
AB was the X-factor in many matches. Fans adored him not just for the stats, but for how he played the game.
5. Lasith Malinga & Jasprit Bumrah: The Bowling Baaps
While batters steal most of the limelight, bowlers like Lasith Malinga and Jasprit Bumrah have been game-changers.
- Malinga: 170+ wickets, 4-time IPL champion with MI
- Bumrah: Lethal death bowler, over 150 wickets, key in MI’s dominance
They’ve turned games on their heads with yorkers and pinpoint accuracy, proving that the “baap” title can belong to a bowler too.
Teams That Could Claim the Crown
It’s not just about individual brilliance. Some franchises have dominated the league so consistently that they deserve a place in this conversation.
Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
- Titles: 5
- Playoff Appearances: 11+
- Fan Base: One of the most loyal
With MS Dhoni at the helm, CSK has been a powerhouse of consistency and experience.
Mumbai Indians (MI)
- Titles: 5
- Winning Seasons: 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2020
- Player Development: Produced stars like Hardik Pandya, Bumrah, and Ishan Kishan
When you talk about success, you can’t ignore MI. Their scouting and team-building strategies are often the gold standard.
The Metrics That Matter
To truly answer the question “Who is the baap of IPL?”, we need to look at several metrics:
- Total Runs/Most Runs in a Season (Kohli, Warner, Buttler)
- Wickets Taken (Chahal, Malinga, Bravo)
- Trophies Won (MI, CSK)
- Impact (Dhoni, ABD, Gayle)
- Fan Engagement (CSK & RCB fans are next-level passionate)
Depending on what you value most, your answer may differ.
The Fan Factor
What makes the “baap” debate so thrilling is the passion of the fans. RCB fans will argue till their last breath for Kohli. CSK loyalists bow to Dhoni. MI supporters back Rohit Sharma with data and trophies. The debates rage on, and honestly, that’s part of the fun.
On social media, memes, polls, and hashtags like #BaapOfIPL trend every season. And guess what? There’s no universally agreed answer—because greatness in IPL comes in many forms.
So, Who is the Baap of IPL?
If you’re looking for the most titles, it’s Rohit Sharma and MI. If you want consistent brilliance and fan love, it’s Kohli. If you’re talking leadership and legacy, it’s MS Dhoni. If you value X-factor and flair, maybe it’s ABD or Gayle.
Truth is, the “Baap of IPL” is not a static title—it’s a feeling. A sentiment. A tribute to excellence in cricket’s most dazzling format. And maybe, just maybe, that’s the beauty of it.
So next time someone asks “Who is the baap of IPL?” — smile, take a deep breath, and say: “It depends. But let me tell you why…”
