The Indian Premier League (IPL) has always been a spotlight for amazing talent, where players from around the world display their skills in the shortest format of the game. Each season introduces new stars and unforgettable performances.
These players cover all areas: batting, bowling, and fielding. They represent the complete package of T20 excellence. From explosive batters to strong bowlers and outstanding all-rounders, this list honors the most important and consistent performers who have shaped IPL cricket over the years.
In this article, we will explore the 10 best IPL players, highlighting their achievements, match-winning contributions, and impact on their teams.
All-Time Best Players In IPL History
The IPL has hosted some of the best T20 cricketers, providing exciting performances year after year. Legends like Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, and MS Dhoni have raised the standard with their consistency, leadership, and ability to win matches.
This list highlights the 10 best IPL players of all time, showcasing top talent in batting, bowling, and all-round skills.
| Player | Span (IPL) | Teams Played |
|---|---|---|
| Virat Kohli | 2008-2025 | RCB |
| MS Dhoni | 2008-2025 | CSK, RPS |
| Rohit Sharma | 2008-2025 | MI, DCH |
| Suresh Raina | 2008-2021 | CSK, GL |
| AB de Villiers | 2008-2021 | RCB, DD |
| Dwayne Bravo | 2008-2022 | CSK, MI |
| Lasith Malinga | 2009-2017 | MI |
| Sunil Narine | 2012-2025 | KKR |
| Jasprit Bumrah | 2013-2025 | MI |
| Yuzvendra Chahal | 2013-2025 | PBKS, RR, RCB, MI |
Take a look below to see why these players are considered the best in IPL.
1. Virat Kohli
IPL Career Stats:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Span | 2008-2025 |
| Matches | 267 |
| Runs | 8661 |
| Average | 39.54 |
| Strike Rate | 132.85 |
| Highest Score | 113* |
| 100s | 8 |
| 50s | 63 |
Virat Kohli is seen as one of the best IPL players because of his unmatched consistency, desire for runs, and ability to perform under pressure. He has scored over 8,600 runs in 267 matches, with eight centuries and 63 fifties. He has won the Orange Cap twice and holds the record for most runs in a single season, which is 973 in 2016.
For RCB, Kohli’s leadership and ability to win matches were crucial in leading the team to their first IPL title in 2025. He inspired teammates and set high standards for batting excellence throughout the league.
2. MS Dhoni
IPL Career Stats:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Span | 2008-2025 |
| Matches | 278 |
| Runs | 5439 |
| Average | 38.30 |
| Strike Rate | 137.45 |
| Highest Score | 84* |
| 100s | 0 |
| 50s | 24 |
MS Dhoni is one of the most famous figures in IPL history. He is known for his calm leadership and finishing skills. Over 278 matches, he scored 5,439 runs at a strike rate of 137.45. This includes 24 fifties. He often guided his team through tough chases with his unbeaten hitting and smart tactics.
As the captain of Chennai Super Kings, Dhoni led the team to several IPL titles. He created winning strategies and inspired his teammates with his presence, which made him one of the most respected and successful captains in the league.
3. Rohit Sharma
IPL Career Stats:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Span | 2008-2025 |
| Matches | 272 |
| Runs | 7046 |
| Average | 29.73 |
| Strike Rate | 132.09 |
| Highest Score | 109* |
| 100s | 2 |
| 50s | 47 |
Rohit Sharma is considered one of the best IPL players because of his extensive experience and impressive run-scoring skills. In 272 matches, he has scored over 7,000 runs, including two centuries and 47 fifties. He often performs well under pressure. His skill in pacing an innings, increasing the speed when necessary, and leading chases sets him apart.
As the captain of the Mumbai Indians, Rohit has guided the team to several IPL titles. His steady leadership, smart strategies, and ability to motivate his teammates have made him one of the most respected and successful players in IPL history.
4. Suresh Raina
IPL Career Stats:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Matches | 205 |
| Runs | 5528 |
| Average | 32.52 |
| Strike rate | 136.76 |
| Highest score | 100* |
| 100s | 1 |
| 50s | 39 |
| Wickets | 25 |
| Average | 45.80 |
| Best bowling figure | 2/0 |
Suresh Raina, known as “Mr. IPL,” is one of the league’s most steady performers. In 205 matches, he scored 5,528 runs, including one century and 39 fifties, while maintaining a strike rate of 136.76. His knack for playing explosive innings and finishing matches under pressure made him a feared batter.
Raina’s all-around skills included 25 wickets and strong fielding. His experience with the Chennai Super Kings helped secure multiple IPL titles, earning him a reputation as one of the greatest and most versatile players in the tournament.
5. AB de Villiers
IPL Career Stats:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Span | 2008-2021 |
| Matches | 184 |
| Runs | 5162 |
| Average | 39.70 |
| Strike Rate | 151.68 |
| Highest Score | 133* |
| 100s | 3 |
| 50s | 40 |
AB de Villiers is known as one of the most exciting and creative batters in IPL history. In 184 matches, he scored 5,162 runs with an average of 39.70 and a strike rate of 151.68. This includes three centuries and 40 fifties. His skill in hitting shots in all directions, finishing games under pressure, and creating record partnerships made him a tough opponent.
Primarily playing for RCB, De Villiers produced many match-winning performances and holds the record for the most Player-of-the-Match awards. This solidified his legacy as one of the league’s greatest players.
6. Dwayne Bravo
IPL Career Stats:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Span | 2008-2022 |
| Matches | 161 |
| Wickets | 183 |
| Average | 23.82 |
| Economy | 8.38 |
| BBI | 4/22 |
Dwayne Bravo is considered one of the best all-rounders in IPL history because of his bowling and finishing skills. In 161 matches, he took 183 wickets with an average of 23.82 and was an important bowler during death overs. Bravo also stepped up with the bat in key moments, scoring vital runs when necessary.
He won the Purple Cap twice, in 2013 and 2015, which highlights his reliability as a top wicket-taker. He played a crucial role for Chennai Super Kings, contributing to their success in multiple IPL titles with his match-winning all-round performances.
7. Lasith Malinga
IPL Career Stats:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Span | 2009-2019 |
| Matches | 122 |
| Wickets | 170 |
| Average | 19.79 |
| Economy | 7.14 |
| BBI | 5/13 |
Lasith Malinga is one of the most famous bowlers in IPL history. He is known for his unique action and effective yorkers. In 122 matches, he took 170 wickets with an average of 19.79 and an economy rate of 7.14. He consistently challenged top batters with his speed and precision.
Malinga could bowl well under pressure, particularly during the final overs. He delivered key breakthroughs for the Mumbai Indians, helping the team win several IPL titles. This made him a match-winner and a legend in the league.
8. Sunil Narine
IPL Career Stats:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Span | 2012-2025 |
| Matches | 189 |
| Runs | 1780 |
| Strike rate | 166.51 |
| Highest score | 109 |
| Wickets | 192 |
| Average | 25.63 |
| Economy | 6.79 |
| BBI | 5/19 |
Sunil Narine is one of the most valuable all-rounders in IPL history. He excels with both bat and ball. In 189 matches, he has scored 1,780 runs at a strike rate of 166.51, including a top score of 109. He has also taken 192 wickets with an average of 25.63 and an economy of 6.79.
Narine’s spin bowling, quick scoring, and flexibility make him a key player for Kolkata Knight Riders. He has helped the team win multiple IPL titles and regularly influences matches with his all-round performances.
9. Jasprit Bumrah
IPL Career Stats:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Span | 2013-2025 |
| Matches | 145 |
| Wickets | 183 |
| Average | 22.02 |
| Economy | 7.24 |
| BBI | 5/10 |
Jasprit Bumrah is one of the most dangerous bowlers in IPL history. He is known for his unique bowling style and effective yorkers. In 145 matches, he has taken 183 wickets with an average of 22.02 and an economy rate of 7.24. He consistently delivers key breakthroughs during important moments.
Playing for the Mumbai Indians, Bumrah has played a vital role in winning several IPL titles. His skill in bowling during the final overs, along with his accuracy, speed, and calmness under pressure, makes him one of the best bowlers in the league.
10. Yuzvendra Chahal
IPL Career Stats:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Span | 2013-2025 |
| Matches | 174 |
| Wickets | 221 |
| Average | 22.76 |
| Economy | 7.96 |
| BBI | 5/40 |
Yuzvendra Chahal is one of the most successful bowlers in IPL history. He is known for his clever leg-spin and consistent ability to take wickets. In 174 matches, he has taken 221 wickets, making him one of the leading wicket-takers in the league. He won the Purple Cap in 2022 with 27 wickets and has several four-wicket hauls and hat-tricks to his name.
Chahal has played for Mumbai Indians, RCB, Rajasthan Royals, and Punjab Kings. He has provided crucial breakthroughs and has controlled the middle overs, making him one of the best bowlers in IPL history.
Players To Look Out For In IPL 2026
The IPL 2026 season promises to be exciting, with many star players ready to shine.
From top batters to skilled bowlers and all-rounders, these players can make a big impact for their teams.
Here is a list of players to watch, who are expected to deliver thrilling performances and key moments in the tournament.
| Player | Team |
|---|---|
| Virat Kohli | RCB |
| Rohit Sharma | MI |
| Sanju Samson | CSK |
| Yuzi Chahal | PBKS |
| Shreyas Iyer | PBKS |
| Shubman Gill | GT |
| Cameroon Green | KKR |
| Axar Patel | DC |
| Mitchell Starc | DC |
| Sam Curren | RR |
