Most Matches as Captain in IPL

Most Matches as Captain in IPL is the ultimate barometer of a player’s leadership, tactical acumen, and long-term franchise influence, a record firmly held by the iconic MS Dhoni.

Dhoni has captained over 226 matches in the IPL, making him the only leader in league history to cross the 200-match milestone as captain. He is followed by Rohit Sharma (158) and Virat Kohli (143). In the ongoing 2026 season, as a new generation of leaders like Shubman Gill and Ruturaj Gaikwad take the helm, this statistic serves as the gold standard for "tactical legacy" and "locker-room authority." Beyond the numbers, this record encapsulates how these legendary figures have defined the identity and championship DNA of their respective teams over nearly two decades.

RANK 1

Shreyas Iyer

PBKS

Mat

23

Won

16

RANK 2

Shubman Gill

GT

Mat

22

Won

13

RANK 3

Ajinkya Rahane

KKR

Mat

20

Won

7

Rank Player Mat Won Lost Tied NR
1 23 16 6 0 1
2 22 13 9 0 0
3 20 7 12 0 1
4 19 14 5 0 0
5 18 8 10 0 0
6 17 7 8 0 1
7 16 7 9 0 0
8 13 4 9 0 0
9 9 2 7 0 0
10 2 2 0 0 0
11 2 1 1 0 0
12 2 0 2 0 0
13 1 0 1 0 0
14 1 0 1 0 0