The Indian Premier League (IPL) is often regarded as the toughest cricket league in the world. In this highly competitive environment, a small mistake can quickly alter the game’s outcome. Therefore, the captain’s role is essential, and effective leadership is crucial for achieving success. Captains must remain alert, as one poor decision can result in a loss. They not only guide their teams but also inspire and motivate their fellow players. Throughout the years, many talented individuals have taken the helm of various franchises in the IPL. While some have faced challenges, others have steered their teams to remarkable victories. Here, we will explore the most wins as captain in ipl
List of 10 Most Wins as Captain in IPL History
S.No
Player
Teams Captained
Matches
Wins
Losses
Win %
Titles Won
1
MS Dhoni
Chennai Super Kings / Rising Pune Supergiants
226
133
91
59.37
5
2
Rohit Sharma
Mumbai Indians
158
87
67
56.32
5
3
Gautam Gambhir
Delhi Capitals / Kolkata Knight Riders
129
71
57
55.42
2
4
David Warner
Sunrisers Hyderabad / Delhi Capitals
83
40
41
49.39
1
5
Virat Kohli
Royal Challengers Bengaluru
143
66
70
48.56
0
6
Adam Gilchrist
Deccan Chargers / Punjab Kings
74
35
39
47.29
1
7
Shane Warne
Rajasthan Royals
55
30
24
55.45
1
8
Sachin Tendulkar
Mumbai Indians
51
30
21
58.82
0
9
Virender Sehwag
Delhi Capitals / Punjab Kings
53
28
24
55.45
0
10
Shreyas Iyer
Delhi Capitals / Kolkata Knight Riders
55
27
26
50.90
0
1. MS Dhoni – 133 Wins as Captain
MS Dhoni is widely regarded as the greatest captain in IPL history, holding the record for Most Wins as Captain in IPL. Leading the Chennai Super Kings and the now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiants, Dhoni earned the nickname “Captain Cool” for his sharp cricketing mind and calm demeanor. Across 226 matches as captain, he secured 133 wins with a winning percentage of 59.37, while facing 91 losses. Under his leadership, the Chennai Super Kings won five titles, making them one of the most successful teams in the league. Before the 2024 IPL season, Dhoni stepped down as captain, handing over the role to Ruturaj Gaikwad.
Rohit Sharma is considered the second-best captain in IPL history. Before 2013, the Mumbai Indians struggled, but after he took over as captain mid-season, the team’s fortunes turned around dramatically. In his first season as captain, he led them to victory and went on to win four more titles in 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2020. Under his leadership, Mumbai Indians became the most successful team in IPL history. With 87 wins out of 158 matches and a win percentage of 56.32, Rohit also holds the record for Most Wins as Captain in IPL. Remarkably, he never lost a final.
3. Gautam Gambhir – 71 Wins as Captain
Gautam Gambhir had a successful run as captain, particularly with the Kolkata Knight Riders, where he transformed the team into a formidable force in the IPL. Under his leadership, KKR won the IPL titles in 2012 and 2014, cementing their status as one of the top teams. Although his stint with Delhi Capitals was not as successful, Gambhir’s overall record as captain is impressive. He captained 129 matches, securing 71 wins and losing 57, with a win percentage of 55.42. He also holds the record for Most Wins as Captain in IPL.
4. David Warner – 40 Wins as Captain
David Warner is often recognized as one of the best overseas players in IPL history. He holds the record for the most runs scored by a foreign player and was a strong leader for Sunrisers Hyderabad. In 2016, Warner led his team to victory by defeating Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the final. He also captained Delhi Capitals in 2022, although that season wasn’t very successful. Overall, Warner captained 83 IPL matches, winning 40 and losing 41, with a win percentage of 55.42. Notably, he holds the title for Most Wins as Captain in IPL.
5. Virat Kohli – 66 Wins as Captain
Even though Virat Kohli did not secure an IPL title as captain, he still holds the record for Most Wins as Captain in IPL and ranks fifth among the best captains in IPL history. As a crucial player for Royal Challengers Bangalore, he played a major role in turning the team into a competitive force. Kohli captained RCB in 143 matches, winning 66 and losing 71, with a win percentage of 48.50.