Harry Brook, Ben Duckett and the rise of high-profile IPL withdrawals

Earlier this month Ben Duckett made the difficult decision to withdraw from his IPL contract with the Delhi Capitals just days before the season opener.

Citing a need to focus on reviving his international career following a disappointing Ashes series, Duckett opted to play domestic first-class cricket for Nottinghamshire instead.

While his choice sparked significant debate, Duckett joined a growing list of high-profile players who have prioritised their personal well-being or national duties over the glitz and glamour of the world’s premier T20 league.

1. Harry Brook (Delhi Capitals, 2024 and 2025)

Harry Brook has become a central figure in the conversation regarding late IPL withdrawals. In 2024, Brook pulled out of his deal with Delhi Capitals shortly after the passing of his grandmother, stating he needed to be with his family during a period of grieving.

Just one year later, he withdrew again from the same franchise to focus on his national commitments, specifically preparing for a heavy international schedule that included series against India and New Zealand.

These consecutive non-injury withdrawals have resulted in a two-year ban from the tournament, as part of a new league directive penalising such moves.

2. Jason Roy (Gujarat Titans, 2022; Kolkata Knight Riders, 2024)

England opener Jason Roy has famously opted out of the IPL on multiple occasions for personal reasons.

In 2022, after being signed by the Gujarat Titans, Roy withdrew citing “bubble fatigue” and a need to manage his mental health after an intensive period of cricket away from home.

He repeated this in 2024, pulling out of his contract with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to spend more time with his young family and “refresh” before a busy international summer.

Roy later admitted that in previous years he had ignored his “dark headspace” until he reached a breaking point, leading him to listen more closely to his “head and heart”.

Also read: Seven deadly bowlers who could dominate the IPL 2026 Purple Cap race

3. Alex Hales (Kolkata Knight Riders, 2022)

Alex Hales was another prominent English player to exit the tournament just before it began in 2022.

Having been signed by KKR for his base price, Hales cited the toll of “restrictive bio-bubbles” and general mental exhaustion from the previous four months spent in various franchise leagues.

He expressed that it wouldn’t be fair to the team to participate if he couldn’t perform at the expected level due to this fatigue. KKR eventually replaced him with Australia’s Aaron Finch.

4. Adam Zampa (Royal Challengers Bangalore, 2021)

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, Australia leg-spinner Adam Zampa took the high-profile step of leaving the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) camp.

While many players were concerned about the deteriorating situation in India at the time, Zampa specifically highlighted his mental health and a lack of motivation within the “bubble” environment as key reasons for his departure.

He noted that the financial sacrifice was secondary to his wellbeing, especially as he was struggling to find a place in the starting XI and felt the mental toll of isolation was no longer worth the stay.

5. Kane Richardson (Royal Challengers Bangalore, 2021)

The New Zealand seamer Kane Richardson also withdrew from the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) squad during the 2021 season, mirroring the timing of his teammate Zampa but for more specific personal circumstances.

Richardson chose to return home to be with his wife for the birth of their first child.

Despite the professional prestige of the IPL, Richardson prioritised his family milestones, a move that highlighted the growing trend of players balancing the lucrative T20 circuit with the non-negotiable moments of their personal lives.

Read next: The most unbelievable IPL records that you really need to know

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IPL 2026 predictions: expert picks for the upcoming fixtures

Get IPL predictions for the upcoming round of fixtures at the 2026 tournament. We’re in for a few entertaining clashes.

Read on for more about these key Indian Premier League clashes.

Punjab Kings v Gujarat Titans

Key talking points

Punjab Kings

Last season’s finalists enter 2026 with a strategy of continuity under the leadership of Shreyas Iyer.

The team has successfully retained its core, including explosive openers Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya, who combined for over 1,000 runs last year.

They have also maintained the services of towering allrounder Marco Jansen. Their major off-season addition is Australian batting sensation Cooper Connolly, who replaces Josh Inglis at number three.

The Kings also fortified their domestic bowling by re-signing leg-spinner Pravin Dubey and adding young talent Vishal Nishad.

However, they lost some veteran experience with the release of Glenn Maxwell, who opted out of the 2026 auction to play in the PSL.

Gujarat Titans

The Titans, led by Shubman Gill, have undergone a strategic bowling transformation while retaining their most vital asset, Rashid Khan, as the spearhead of the spin attack.

The team made significant headlines by acquiring Mohammed Siraj to pair with a fully fit Kagiso Rabada, creating one of the league’s most formidable new-ball attacks.

Key new personnel include veteran all-rounder Jason Holder and English wicketkeeper-batter Tom Banton to provide middle-order depth.

While they lost Sherfane Rutherford in a trade to MI, the retention of Jos Buttler and Sai Sudharsan ensures their top order remains world-class.

Venue: Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, New Chandigarh

Teams have a slight preference for bowling first at this venue even though results are balanced, with teams batting first winning 6 matches and chasing teams winning 5 matches.

The average first innings score in the IPL is approximately 168 runs. In general, T20s, it tends to be slightly lower at 148 runs.

Shashank Singh of the Punjab Kings holds the record for the most IPL runs at this stadium, with 215 runs scored across 9 innings.

Arshdeep Singh and Harshal Patel are tied for the most IPL wickets at the venue; each having claimed 11 wickets.

The record for the highest team total at the venue is 228/5, set by Mumbai Indians against Gujarat Titans in May 2025.

The Punjab Kings’ Priyansh Arya holds the record for the highest individual score at the ground with an unbeaten 103 off 42 balls* against CSK in 2025.

Yuzvendra Chahal recorded the best bowling figures at this ground with 4/28 in 4 overs against KKR in April 2025.

Weather

Expect mostly cloudy but pleasant conditions in New Chandigarh on Tuesday evening. Temperatures will cool to about 24 degrees by 7:30pm, eventually dipping to a low of 20 degrees late at night.

While there is a slight chance of a light passing shower, conditions should remain largely dry with light breezes coming from the northeast.

Form

• PBKS: L, W, L, W, L.
• GT: L, L, L, W, W.

Predicted line-ups

PBKS: Prabhsimran Singh (wk), Priyansh Arya, Shreyas Iyer, Nehal Wadhera, Marcus Stoinis, Shashank Singh, Azmatullah Omarzai, Marco Jansen, Harpreet Brar, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal.

GT: Shubman Gill, Jos Buttler, Sai Sudharsan, Glenn Phillips, Shahrukh Khan, Washington Sundar, Rahul Tewatia, Rashid Khan, Mohammed Siraj, Kagiso Rabada, Prasidh Krishna, Impact: Sai Kishore.

Key players

Priyansh Arya

A breakout star of the 2025 season, Priyansh Arya has quickly become the X-factor for the Punjab Kings.

The aggressive left-handed opener is known for his fearless, see-ball-hit-ball approach, famously smashing a 39-ball century against CSK last year — the fifth-fastest in IPL history.

Arya’s ability to maintain an elite strike rate (currently 179.25 in the IPL) across the powerplay and middle overs makes him a nightmare for bowlers.

After making his India A debut earlier this year, he enters this match looking to provide the explosive starts PBKS needs to dominate the Titans’ pace attack.

Jos Buttler

One of the most dangerous white-ball batters in world cricket despite his recent struggles at the World Cup where he averaged just 10.87 and failed to cross the 30-run mark in eight innings.

However, his IPL pedigree is undeniable; he scored over 500 runs last season and holds a career IPL average of 40.

Slotting back into the top order alongside Shubman Gill, Buttler will be motivated to find his rhythm and prove he is still the threat the Titans paid big money for.

Prediction: Punjab Kings

Last season PBKS went all the way to the final with a squad that was light on stars and high on teamwork. They look set to follow a similar pattern again in 2026.

The Titans meanwhile have a host of big-name stars.

Jos Buttler and Kagiso Rabada both struggled for form at the World Cup and will be eager to turn their fortunes around as quickly as possible, but we are tipping the home side to start with a win.

Also read: Seven deadly bowlers who could dominate the IPL 2026 Purple Cap race

Lucknow Super Giants v Delhi Capitals

Key talking points

Lucknow Super Giants

Lucknow enters the season under the leadership of Rishabh Pant, who was retained as captain after his record-shattering ₹27 crore acquisition last year.

To bolster a bowling unit that struggled with consistency, LSG made significant off-season moves by trading in veteran India pacer Mohammed Shami from SRH and acquiring the raw pace of Anrich Nortje in the mini auction.

They also added tactical depth with Sri Lankan all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga and Australian wicketkeeper Josh Inglis.

Notable departures include Ravi Bishnoi, David Miller, and Akash Deep, signalling a shift toward a more pace-heavy domestic core.

Delhi Capitals

The Capitals head into 2026 with a major leadership change, as Axar Patel takes over as the full-time captain. The biggest headline for DC is the arrival of KL Rahul, who is set to lead the top order after his high-profile move from LSG.

The team has revamped its batting lineup by securing Nitish Rana and South Africa powerhouse David Miller to provide middle-order stability.

While they face early-season concerns with Mitchell Starc being unavailable due to injury, they have fortified their bowling with T. Natarajan and Jammu and Kashmir sensation Auqib Nabi.

Ben Duckett was meant to feature but he has withdrawn from the series at the last minute to concentrate on resurrecting his international career.

Venue: Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow

Teams generally prefer to bowl first at Ekana. Statistics show that chasing teams have won approximately 54% of matches (12 out of 22 games), often due to the dew factor in the second innings.

The average first innings score at the ground is approximately 175 runs. While it was historically lower (around 165), recent seasons have seen a significant shift toward higher totals.

KL Rahul holds the record for the most IPL runs at this stadium, having scored 540 runs in 13 innings.

Ravi Bishnoi is the leading wicket-taker at the venue in the IPL, with 19 wickets in 18 matches.

The record score at the ground is 235/6, set by the Kolkata Knight Riders against the Lucknow Super Giants in 2024.

Rishabh Pant holds the record for the highest individual IPL score at the ground, an unbeaten 118* off 42 balls for LSG against RCB in May 2025.

Mark Wood holds the best bowling figures at the stadium with 5/14 for LSG against the Delhi Capitals in April 2023.

Weather

It’s expected to be a warm and mostly clear evening in Lucknow on Wednesday. Nighttime temperatures will likely hover around 23 degrees, providing a slight relief from the daytime high of 36.

While the sky remains predominantly clear, some periodic clouds may appear. Humidity will be moderate at approximately 30–36%, with gentle northwest winds. No rain is forecast.

Form

• LSG: L, W, L, L, L.
• DC: W, L, L, NR, L.

Predicted line-ups

LSG: Mitchell Marsh, Aiden Markram, Nicholas Pooran, Rishabh Pant (c/wk), Ayush Badoni, Abdul Samad, Wanindu Hasaranga, Shahbaz Ahmed, Mohammed Shami, Mayank Yadav, Avesh Khan, Impact: Digvesh Rathi.

DC: KL Rahul (wk), Pathum Nissanka, Nitish Rana, Tristan Stubbs, Axar Patel (c), David Miller, Ashutosh Sharma, Vipraj Nigam, Auqib Nabi, Kuldeep Yadav, Mitchell Starc, Impact: T. Natarajan.

Key players

Aiden Markram

Having been retained for a considerable fee after a stellar 2025 campaign, Aiden Markram has cemented his role as an explosive top-order anchor for LSG.

Last season, he accumulated 445 runs at an impressive strike rate of 148.82, adapting his technically sound game to meet the aggressive demands of the Impact Player rule.

Markram enters this game in peak form following a dominant 2026 T20 World Cup, where he maintained a strike rate of 175.16 — the highest among all tournament openers.

His ability to provide rapid starts while offering useful off spin makes him a key player for the Super Giants.

KL Rahul

After his high-profile release from LSG, KL Rahul has joined the Delhi Capitals for the 2026 season, bringing much-needed composure to their high-octane batting line up.

Rahul is expected to lead the top order, likely pairing with Pathum Nissanka to balance firepower with his trademark clinical accumulation.

With over 5,200 career IPL runs and an elite average of 46.21, his role is to anchor the innings, allowing power-hitters like David Miller to flourish later.

Facing his former franchise in his first away game of the season, Rahul’s motivation and intimate knowledge of the Ekana Stadium conditions will be critical for DC’s success.

Prediction: LSG

LSG started very well last season before fading as the tournament went on. Their success was built around their imposing top order of Mitch Marsh, Aiden Markram and Nicholas Pooran – all of whom are back for more in 2026.

Rishabh Pant struggled last season, but he should arrive in 2026 more rested and in a better place than last time. He also has plenty to prove as he slowly moves further away from contention for the Indian T20 side.

The Capitals are an imposing outfit with an excellent record against LSG, but we are tipping the home side to get the job done.

Kolkata Knight Riders v Sunrisers Hyderabad

Key talking points

Knight Riders

KKR showed immense batting depth in their opening six-wicket loss to MI, posting a massive 220/4 at the Wankhede.

Captain Ajinkya Rahane (67) and young Angkrish Raghuvanshi (51) were in sparkling form, though Rahane ended up nursing calf cramps ahead of this home opener.

The team’s primary concern will be their expensive bowling unit; despite Sunil Narine’s relatively economical spell, they struggled to defend a high total and managed just three wickets with the ball.

A major blow is the temporary unavailability of Cameron Green for bowling duties due to a back complaint, meaning he will play as a specialist batter for the next 10 days.

KKR will rely on their spin-heavy strategy at Eden Gardens as they seek to stifle SRH’s power-hitters.

Sunrisers Hyderabad

SRH enters this clash following a heavy defeat against RCB, where their bowling attack was dismantled by Virat Kohli and Devdutt Padikkal.

While the bowlers struggled, captain Ishan Kishan provided a major silver lining with a blistering 80 off 38 balls. He and Aniket Verma (43) proved SRH have the firepower to chase big totals.

Head coach Daniel Vettori has called for a more disciplined bowling performance from the likes of Harshal Patel and Jaydev Unadkat.

While SRH are a side filled with big-name hitters, without Aussie skipper Pat Cummins, who remains sidelined for the early stages of the season, their bowling unit does have a somewhat fragile look to it.

Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata

Teams predominantly prefer to bowl first in Kolkata. Chasing teams have won approximately 57 percent of the 100-plus IPL matches played at this venue.

The average first innings score at the ground is approximately 165–170 runs. However, recent seasons have seen this average climb significantly, with scores frequently exceeding 190 in high-scoring encounters.

Gautam Gambhir holds the record for the most IPL runs at Eden Gardens, amassing 1,407 runs during his tenure with KKR and Delhi.

Sunil Narine is the leading wicket-taker at the ground with 72 wickets, the most by any player at a single venue in IPL history.

The record score at the venue is 262/2, set by the Punjab Kings against KKR in April 2024, which was also the highest successful run chase in T20 history at the time.

Rajat Patidar (Royal Challengers Bengaluru) holds the record for the highest individual score at the ground with an unbeaten 112 off 54 balls against Lucknow Super Giants in the 2022 Eliminator.

Sunil Narine recorded the best bowling figures at this stadium with 5/19 against the Punjab Kings in 2012.

Weather

Thursday evening in Kolkata will be warm and humid, with temperatures settling around 28 degrees.

While the day remains mostly sunny, the night may bring increased cloud cover and a slight chance of a stray thundershower, typical for this time of year.

Humidity will be high at 75 percent, making it feel quite muggy, while gentle southerly breezes provide some light relief.

Form

• KKR: L, L, A, L, W.
• SRH: L, W, W, W, NR.

Predicted line-ups

KKR: Finn Allen, Ajinkya Rahane, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Cameron Green, Rinku Singh, Ramandeep Singh, Sunil Narine, Vaibhav Arora, Blessing Muzarabani, Kartik Tyagi, Varun Chakaravarthy. Impact Sub: Umran Malik.

SRH: Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan (c/wk), Heinrich Klaasen, Aniket Verma, Liam Livingstone, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Brydon Carse, Harshal Patel, Jaydev Unadkat, Zeeshan Ansari. Impact Sub: Harsh Dubey.

Key players

Cameron Green

As the most expensive overseas signing in IPL history, Cameron Green carries the massive responsibility of filling the void left by the retired Andre Russell.

While a lower-back injury has temporarily restricted his bowling duties, his batting remains KKR’s primary engine.

Green’s ability to counter spin on the traditionally turning Eden Gardens track will be vital, especially after KKR’s narrow opening-match loss.

His high-intensity training and nothing to lose mindset, as noted by coach Shane Watson, make him the essential anchor around which KKR’s middle order will revolve.

Heinrich Klaasen

Veteran South African Heinrich Klaasen remains a destructive force in the powerful SRH lineup, coming off a spectacular 2025 season where he smashed 487 runs at a strike rate of 172.70.

He holds a psychological edge at this venue, having previously scored a 37-ball century against KKR — the third-fastest in IPL history.

In SRH’s 2026 opener, Klaasen looked set for another big score with 31 off 21 balls before a controversial boundary catch ended his stay.

As the joint-highest century-maker for the franchise, his ability to dominate world-class spinners like Sunil Narine makes him the key to SRH breaching a massive total.

Prediction: SRH

This is a tough one to call and a lot will depend on how SRH bowl. There is no doubt about the capability of their batting with Heinrich Klaasen one of the best players of spin around.

But their bowling needs to fire if they are to bag a first win. Both sides will be pushing hard after opening game losses and we are tipping SRH to see this one out.

Read next: The most unbelievable IPL records that you really need to know

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MARK — IPL team loyalty – is there such a thing? The 7 players have shown there is

Loyalty is not something that one sees much of in franchise cricket. In general, that applies as much to the franchises as it does to the players, with stars usually signed on short-term deals.

The result is plenty of games, but, in many cases, for many different teams. Occasionally however a player and a team resonate with each other and longer-term commitments are made.

Stars signed for longer terms become the face of the brand and the association becomes strong. With the latest edition of the Indian Premier League just around the corner, let’s look at the players who have made the most appearances for a single franchise.

1. Virat Kohli

• 282 matches for Royal Challengers Bengaluru

Few relationships in cricket are as enduring as Kohli’s bond with Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Since debuting in the inaugural 2008 season, he has been the heartbeat of the franchise.

While RCB have often flattered to deceive, Kohli’s consistency has rarely dipped, highlighted by his record-breaking 973-run season in 2016.

Kohli has carried the burden of expectation as captain and senior pro, often being the glue in an otherwise inconsistent batting unit. His longevity is remarkable in a format that evolves rapidly, and his ability to adapt has kept him relevant across eras.

It took until 2025 before they won the title, but at no point did his loyalty waver and he has become synonymous with the franchise, embodying both its ambition and its frustrations.

2. MS Dhoni

• 272 matches for Chennai Super Kings

Dhoni and Chennai Super Kings represent perhaps the most successful player-franchise partnership in IPL history. Calm, calculated and endlessly composed, Dhoni has been the architect behind multiple title-winning campaigns.

Under his leadership, CSK have been defined by consistency, regularly reaching the playoffs and finals. Dhoni’s finishing ability with the bat and sharp tactical mind have set the standard for captaincy in T20 cricket.

Even in the twilight of his career, his presence remains central, both as a player and a cultural figure within the franchise. Still contracted to the franchise in 2026, Dhoni is not expected to feature much with Sanju Samson now in the mix.

Also read: Seven deadly bowlers who could dominate the IPL 2026 Purple Cap race

3. Rohit Sharma

• 236 matches for Mumbai Indians

Rohit Sharma’s legacy at Mumbai Indians is built on silverware. As captain, he transformed the franchise into a dominant force, leading them to multiple IPL titles.

While his individual batting returns have fluctuated, Rohit’s leadership has been his defining contribution. His calm demeanour and ability to manage high-pressure situations have been instrumental in Mumbai’s success.

Over the years, he has also produced crucial innings in big matches, reinforcing his reputation as a big-game player.

4. Kieron Pollard

• 211 matches for Mumbai Indians

Kieron Pollard’s role at Mumbai Indians has been that of enforcer and match-winner. A destructive finisher and handy all-rounder, Pollard delivered countless decisive performances across his long stint.

His ability to turn games in a matter of overs made him one of the most feared players in the league. Beyond his on-field exploits, Pollard’s leadership within the squad added depth to Mumbai’s dressing room culture.

Few overseas players have shown such enduring loyalty to a single IPL team. Like Virat Kohli, Pollard has only ever played for one IPL team.

5. Ravindra Jadeja

• 200 matches for Chennai Super Kings

Ravindra Jadeja has been a vital cog in Chennai Super Kings’ sustained success. A genuine three-dimensional cricketer, his contributions span batting, bowling and fielding.

Often used as a finisher, Jadeja produced crucial cameos under pressure, while his left-arm spin provided control in the middle overs. His electric fielding adds another layer of value.

Over time, he has evolved into one of CSK’s senior leaders, reflecting the franchise’s emphasis on continuity and experience. Jadeja began his IPL career at the Rajasthan Royals, and he will return there for the 2026 season, but his 12 seasons at CSK will not be easily forgotten.

6. Suresh Raina

• 200 matches for Chennai Super Kings

Suresh Raina, often dubbed “Mr IPL”, was the backbone of Chennai Super Kings’ batting for over a decade. Reliable, aggressive and adaptable, he thrived in all conditions and situations.

Raina’s ability to dominate spin and accelerate through the middle overs made him indispensable. He was also a key figure in the field and a trusted lieutenant to Dhoni.

His consistency in playoff matches further underlined his value, helping CSK maintain their reputation as one of the league’s most formidable teams.

7. Sunil Narine

• 198 matches for Kolkata Knight Riders

West Indies star Sunil Narine’s association with Kolkata Knight Riders has been defined by innovation and impact. Initially renowned for his mystery spin, Narine played a central role in KKR’s title wins with his ability to stifle opposition batters.

In later years, he reinvented himself as a pinch-hitting opener, adding a new dimension to his game.

This dual role has made him one of the most unique players in IPL history. His longevity with KKR reflects both his adaptability and the franchise’s faith in his match-winning abilities. Narine will be back for another season with KKR in 2026.

Read next: The most unbelievable IPL records that you really need to know

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From Kohli through to Rahul and Gill: Every IPL team’s leading run-scorer

The IPL gets going on Saturday and the excitement is building to fever pitch levels ahead of what is set to be another incredible season of runs and action.

The 2026 staging of the tournament will be its 19 iteration which means there is a huge repository of records and statistics available for anyone who is interested.

As we head towards the new campaign, let’s take a moment to look at which player is the leading run scorer for each of the ten franchises that will play this season.

1. Virat Kohli, Royal Challengers Bengaluru

• 8,661 runs

There was never likely to be anyone else at the top of Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s charts. Kohli has been synonymous with the franchise since the inaugural season in 2008 and he remains one of the defining figures in IPL history.

His remarkable tally has been built on consistency, longevity and a fierce loyalty to one team in an era where player movement is common.

Kohli’s peak came during the extraordinary 2016 season when he amassed 973 runs, a record that still stands. Yet what truly sets him apart is his ability to evolve. Early in his career he was an accumulator who anchored innings.

In later years he added range and tempo, becoming equally dangerous in chases and powerplay assaults. Even as the IPL has shifted towards power hitting, Kohli’s classical stroke play continues to deliver runs in bulk, keeping him comfortably ahead of every other RCB batter.

2. Rohit Sharma, Mumbai Indians

• 5,876 runs

Rohit Sharma’s record with Mumbai Indians reflects both his batting quality and the franchise’s sustained dominance.

While he did not begin his IPL journey with Mumbai, his move in 2011 marked the start of a hugely successful era that included multiple titles and countless match-winning contributions.

Rohit’s numbers are particularly impressive given that he has often balanced leadership responsibilities with his batting.

Known for his effortless timing and ability to accelerate after settling, he has produced numerous defining innings, especially in high-pressure knockout matches.

Unlike some modern IPL stars, Rohit has rarely relied purely on power, instead blending placement, composure and tactical awareness.

His longevity also stands out. Across more than a decade in Mumbai colours, Rohit has adapted to different roles, from middle-order stabiliser to top-order aggressor, ensuring he remains the franchise’s most prolific run-scorer.

3. MS Dhoni, Chennai Super Kings

• 4,865 runs

MS Dhoni’s run tally for Chennai Super Kings is as much about impact as it is about volume of games. Batting predominantly in the middle and lower order, Dhoni has rarely had the opportunity to compile massive totals.

Instead, he has built his reputation on finishing games, controlling run chases and delivering under pressure.

The former Chennai captain’s calmness in tense situations has defined the franchise’s identity. Whether shepherding chases or launching late assaults, Dhoni’s contributions often arrive when they matter most.

His strike rate and finishing ability have frequently outweighed the absence of centuries or long innings. In all Dhoni has played 100 undefeated innings in the IPL.

That Dhoni remains Chennai’s leading run-scorer despite batting lower than many of his teammates highlights both his longevity and the trust placed in him. Even in the twilight of his career, he continues to play a decisive role in shaping Chennai’s batting narrative.

4. Sanju Samson, Rajasthan Royals

• 4,027 runs

Sanju Samson’s rise to the top of Rajasthan Royals’ run charts reflects his growth from precocious talent to established leader. Debuting as a teenager, Samson quickly became known for his elegant stroke play and ability to dominate spin. Over time, he has added consistency to flair.

Rajasthan’s batting has often revolved around Samson’s ability to accelerate in the middle overs. His lofted drives and clean hitting down the ground have produced some of the franchise’s most memorable innings.

Unlike many modern T20 batters, Samson’s game is built on timing rather than brute force, making his scoring appear effortless.

He skippered the Royals last season but Samson, who starred for India at the recently completed T20 World Cup, has now moved to CSK which means his impact will be lost.

Crossing the 4000-run mark underlines his importance to the franchise and his status as one of the IPL’s most stylish batters.

Also read: Seven deadly bowlers who could dominate the IPL 2026 Purple Cap race

5. David Warner, Sunrisers Hyderabad

• 4,014 runs

The only non-Indian on this list, Australia star David Warner’s association with Sunrisers Hyderabad produced one of the most productive partnerships between player and franchise in IPL history.

The left-hander combined aggression with consistency, regularly finishing among the tournament’s top run-scorers during his time with the team.

Warner’s approach was simple but devastating. He attacked from the outset, particularly square of the wicket, and rarely allowed bowlers to settle. His ability to dominate powerplays laid the foundation for Hyderabad’s batting across multiple seasons.

He also showed remarkable adaptability, performing on slower surfaces where timing and placement were crucial.

His tally of 4014 runs remains a testament to that sustained excellence. Even after moving on, Warner’s legacy at Hyderabad endures as the batter who defined their early success.

6. Rishabh Pant, Delhi Capitals

• 3,284 runs

Rishabh Pant’s run-scoring for Delhi Capitals was marked by its audacity. From the outset, Pant has played with freedom, taking on bowlers with unconventional strokes and fearless intent.

His ability to change momentum in a few overs has made him central to Delhi’s batting plans.

Pant’s breakout season came in 2018 when he amassed runs at a staggering strike rate, including a breathtaking 128 not out. Since then, he has matured, balancing aggression with situational awareness.

His role as captain also brought added responsibility, but his instinctive attacking style has largely remained unchanged. With more than 3000 runs, Pant stands comfortably atop Delhi’s charts. No longer at the Capitals, Pant will be scoring his runs for LSG this season.

7. Gautam Gambhir, Kolkata Knight Riders

• 3,035 runs

Gautam Gambhir’s influence on Kolkata Knight Riders extended beyond captaincy. As their leading run-scorer, he provided stability at the top of the order during the franchise’s most successful years. Gambhir’s measured approach complemented the explosive hitters around him.

He often anchored innings, allowing aggressive partners to play freely. His ability to absorb pressure in big matches was instrumental in Kolkata’s title wins. Gambhir was not the most flamboyant batter, but his effectiveness lay in clarity of role and consistency.

Crossing 3000 runs for Kolkata highlights his enduring importance. Even years after his retirement, he remains the franchise’s benchmark for top-order reliability.

8. KL Rahul, Punjab Kings

• 2,548 runs

KL Rahul’s stint with Punjab Kings saw him develop into one of the IPL’s most prolific top-order batters. Opening the innings, Rahul combined elegance with calculated aggression, often batting deep into the innings.

His standout seasons included multiple centuries and Orange Cap-winning performances. Rahul’s ability to control tempo made him invaluable. He could accelerate rapidly or anchor depending on match situations.

While critics occasionally questioned his strike rate, his consistency ensured Punjab regularly posted competitive totals.

Rahul’s 2548 runs place him at the top of Punjab’s charts, underlining his influence during his tenure with the franchise.

9. Shubman Gill, Gujarat Titans

• 2,449 runs

Shubman Gill’s rapid ascent to Gujarat Titans’ leading run-scorer reflects both his talent and the franchise’s relatively short history. Since joining Gujarat, Gill has evolved into a dominant T20 opener.

His breakout campaign included a remarkable run of centuries that propelled Gujarat deep into the tournament. Gill’s batting blends classical technique with modern aggression.

Strong off the front foot and powerful through the leg side, he has become a reliable foundation for Gujarat’s innings. With 2449 runs already, Gill continues to expand his lead and shape the franchise’s batting identity.

He will be looking to pile on more runs in 2026 as he seeks to reestablish himself as part of the Indian team.

10. KL Rahul, Lucknow Super Giants

• 1,410 runs

KL Rahul appears again for Lucknow Super Giants, highlighting his consistency across franchises. As captain and opener, Rahul has been central to Lucknow’s early IPL journey. His calm presence at the top has provided structure to a relatively new side.

Rahul’s approach with Lucknow has mirrored his broader T20 philosophy. He builds innings carefully before accelerating, ensuring stability while still delivering competitive totals.

Although Lucknow’s history is short, Rahul’s contribution has already set a benchmark for future batters. With 1410 runs, he comfortably leads the franchise’s charts. He won’t be adding to that number in 2026 however as he is now plying his trade for the Delhi Capitals.

Read next: The most unbelievable IPL records that you really need to know

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MS Dhoni’s IPL legacy: seven reasons he remains a CSK icon

Legendary Indian cricketer MS Dhoni is now 44 years old. He has retired from international cricket, but when it comes to the IPL, he just keeps on going.

He played in the very first staging of the tournament back in 2008 and, if he takes the field for Chennai Super Kings in 2026 it will be his 19th season in the competition.

While he is unlikely to feature prominently for CSK, especially after they signed Sanju Samson, Dhoni’s influence will no doubt be felt.

As the former India skipper prepares for his 19th season in the IPL, let’s take a moment to look back on some of the highlights of his illustrious career.

1. The face of a franchise

From the outset, Dhoni became synonymous with Chennai Super Kings. Signed as one of the league’s marquee players in 2008, he quickly established himself as both leader and talisman.

While many players moved between franchises, Dhoni remained the constant at CSK, shaping its identity around calm leadership and tactical clarity. His presence alone became a competitive advantage, with younger players thriving under his guidance.

Dhoni has been at CSK for two spells of eight years; he spent two years in the middle playing for the now defunct Rising Pune Supergiant – a sabbatical that was required out of necessity as CSK served a two-season suspension and did not play.

2. Five-time IPL champion

Under Dhoni’s captaincy, CSK became one of the most successful teams in IPL history, lifting multiple titles across different eras. What set Dhoni apart was not just the silverware, but the consistency.

CSK regularly reached the playoffs and finals, making them perennial contenders. His ability to rebuild squads and maintain standards ensured success was sustained rather than fleeting.

Dhoni led the franchise to ten finals in their first 14 seasons – they won five titles (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021 and 2023).

Also read: Seven deadly bowlers who could dominate the IPL 2026 Purple Cap race

3. The master finisher

Few players in T20 history have matched Dhoni’s reputation as a finisher. Whether chasing daunting totals or setting competitive scores, he often delivered in high-pressure situations.

His calculated approach, combined with immense power, allowed him to take games deep and close them out with precision. Countless matches were decided in the final overs with Dhoni at the crease.

Indeed, the mark of a good finisher is to remain undefeated when the innings comes to an end and that regard Dhoni is outstanding with his stats currently showing 100 undefeated IPL knocks, securing him an average score of 38.30 per innings.

4. Tactical genius behind the stumps

As a wicketkeeper, Dhoni’s influence extended far beyond catches and stumpings. His reading of the game, field placements and ability to guide bowlers made him an on-field strategist of the highest order.

His quick hands behind the stumps also produced some of the fastest stumpings seen in the format, often turning matches in CSK’s favour.

Dhoni has been responsible for a total of 158 catches and 47 stumpings – as if to prove to the world that he is not slowing down, he bagged five stumpings in 2025, his second most prolific return in an IPL season.

5. Backing players to deliver

One of Dhoni’s defining traits has been his unwavering faith in players.

He consistently backed individuals through lean patches, a quality that fostered loyalty and confidence within the squad. Several players, both from India and overseas, produced their best cricket under his leadership, crediting Dhoni’s calm approach and clarity of roles.

6. Reinventing himself over time

As the IPL evolved, so did Dhoni. Early in his career, he was a destructive middle-order batter capable of dominating attacks.

In later years, he adapted his role, often coming in lower down the order and focusing on finishing games or mentoring younger players. This willingness to evolve has allowed him to remain relevant even into his forties.

7. The return after suspension

When CSK returned to the IPL in 2018 after a two-year suspension, many questioned whether the team could immediately compete at the highest level. Dhoni answered emphatically, leading the side to the title in a remarkable comeback season.

It remains one of the most memorable campaigns in IPL history and reinforced his status as a leader who thrives under pressure.

Read next: The most unbelievable IPL records that you really need to know

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IPL 2026 opening weekend: RCB, MI and CSK in blockbuster clashes

It’s go-time in the IPL with the latest season set to start on Saturday.

With the World Cup safely defended by India, in India, there is plenty of hype and excitement for the start of the world’s premier franchise tournament and there are plenty of exciting match-ups and subplots set to take place.

Most notably is the return of T20 World Cup Player of the Tournament Sanju Samson to face his former team the Rajasthan Royals.

The world’s best teenagers are in action on Monday as well, while Virat Kohli’s RCB will look to defend the title they finally won at the 18^th attempt in 2025.

The season starts on Saturday and will run for two months. It promises something for everybody. Enjoy it.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru v Sunrisers Hyderabad

Key talking points

Royal Challengers Bengaluru

Entering as reigning champions for the first time, RCB has maintained its core, but they face immediate availability hurdles.

The most notable off-season addition is Venkatesh Iyer, acquired for to bolster an already star-studded batting lineup that features the legendary Virat Kohli and the world’s fourth ranked T20I batsman Phil Salt.

However, the bowling department is under scrutiny; star paceman Josh Hazlewood will miss the early stages while Yash Dayal is ruled out for the entire season.

To compensate, RCB have brought in New Zealand quick Jacob Duffy and 23-year-old left-arm quick Mangesh Yadav.

The team has bid farewell to Liam Livingstone and Lungi Ngidi, opting to stick with 17 retained players to defend their crown.

Sunrisers Hyderabad

SRH enter the 2026 season with a significant leadership shift: with regular captain Pat Cummins unavailable for the first half of the tournament, Ishan Kishan will lead the side.

The “Orange Army” made a massive splash in the mini-auction by signing Liam Livingstone for US$1,373 hoping to add explosive middle-order power.

They have also fortified their India bowling contingent with Shivam Mavi, but they lost veteran Mohammed Shami in a pre-auction trade.

Several spinners, including Adam Zampa and Rahul Chahar, were released to make room for fresh uncapped talent like Salil Arora and Shivang Kumar.

Venue: M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru

The highest IPL score at the venue was made by SRH in 2024 when they smashed an outstanding 287 for three. That knock was built around a 41-ball 102 from Australia opener Travis Head.

The lowest IPL score recorded at the ground was RCB’s 82 all out against KKR in 2008.

SRH have played nine games at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium – they have won three and lost six.

RCB have won 50 and lost 50 at the venue. They have played at the ground 105 times with four No Results and a tie.

The average first innings score at the ground is 168 runs. However, on this high-scoring ground, totals often exceed 180–190 in modern T20 play, with 200-plus scores becoming increasingly common.

Teams generally prefer to chase at this ground. Historically, chasing teams have won approximately 53% of IPL matches played here.

Dew often plays a role in evening matches, making it difficult for bowlers to grip the ball in the second innings.

Not surprisingly given his long association with RCB, Virat Kohli holds the record for the most IPL runs at this stadium, with over 3,200 runs. He has spent his entire IPL career with the Bengaluru franchise.

Weather

Saturday evening in Bengaluru promises a pleasant break from the daytime heat. As the sun sets, temperatures will dip to a comfortable 27 degrees, eventually reaching a low of 22.

Expect partly cloudy skies with a gentle breeze, making it an ideal time for cricket. While the humidity remains low, the air will feel refreshing and mild.

Form

• RCB: W, W, W, L, A.
• SRH: W, W, W, NR, L.

Last five winners head-to-head: SRH, RCB, SRH, RCB, RCB.

Predicted line-ups

RCB: Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Venkatesh Iyer, Rajat Patidar, Jitesh Sharma, Tim David, Jacob Bethell, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Nuwan Thushara, Rasikh Salam.

SRH: Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Heinrich Klaasen, Liam Livingstone, Aniket Verma, Harshal Patel, Shivam Mavi, David Payne, Jaydev Unadkat.

Key players

Virat Kohli

As the pulse of the defending champions, Virat Kohli enters the 19th IPL edition in imposing form, having amassed 657 runs at an average of 54.75 in RCB’s title-winning 2025 campaign.

His mastery of the Chinnaswamy Stadium is unmatched; he recently became the first player in history to score over 3,500 T20 runs at a single venue.

Now a T20 specialist following his international retirement, Kohli’s role as the anchor-aggressor alongside Phil Salt is vital for setting the tone.

His recent practice form, highlighted by a quickfire 45 off 19 balls, suggests he is ready to exploit the short boundaries from the first over.

Abhishek Sharma

The number one ranked batsman in world T20 arrives at the opener as SRH’s most dangerous weapon, fresh off a match-winning 52 off 21 balls in the 2026 T20 World Cup final.

Known for his boundary-hitting frequency, the best of any modern batter on the offside, he redefined aggression last season with a strike rate near 199.

His recent 94 off 42 balls in an intra-squad practice game confirms he has carried that lethal rhythm into the IPL.

Abhishek’s ability to dominate the powerplay alongside Travis Head is essential for SRH to challenge the champions in their own backyard.

Prediction: Sunrisers Hyderabad

These are two outstanding sides, and it is hard to gauge exactly how things will pan out given that it is the first game of the season, but it must be noted that SRH have a truly imposing batting unit.

Abhishek Sharma is the top ranked T20I batsman in the world with Ishan Kishan at number two. Travis Head and Heinrich Klaasen are mercurial power-hitters capable of dismantling the best bowling attacks.

Throw in the guile of Nitish Kumar Reddy and the middle-order clout of Liam Livingstone and SRH have a truly formidable look about them.

Also read: Seven deadly bowlers who could dominate the IPL 2026 Purple Cap race

Mumbai Indians v Kolkata Knight Riders

Key talking points

Mumbai Indians

Mumbai Indians have doubled down on their ‘One Family’ core, retaining stars Hardik Pandya (the skipper), Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, and Suryakumar Yadav.

Their primary off-season strategy focused on high-impact trades, successfully bringing in bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur from Lucknow Super Giants and middle-order batter Sherfane Rutherford from Gujarat Titans.

They also re-acquired leg-spinner Mayank Markande to bolster their spin department.

To facilitate these moves, MI parted ways with several players, most notably trading out Arjun Tendulkar and releasing international quicks Reece Topley and Lizaad Williams.

With a settled core and new domestic depth, MI aims to reclaim their dominant form at home.

Kolkata Knight Riders

KKR enters 2026 with a heavily restructured squad under new captain Ajinkya Rahane.

The headline addition is Australian all-rounder Cameron Green, signed for a record-breaking fee following the retirement of franchise legend Andre Russell.

However, KKR’s preparations have been rocked by a severe injury crisis in their pace attack; both Harshit Rana and Akash Deep are ruled out for the season, with Navdeep Saini and Saurabh Dubey signed as late replacements.

Additionally, star signing Matheesha Pathirana is expected to miss the early phase of the tournament.

While they have lost key contributors like Venkatesh Iyer and Quinton de Kock, KKR will rely on a “spin-heavy” strategy led by Sunil Narine and Varun Chakaravarthy to bridge the gap.

Venue: Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai

Teams heavily prefer to chase at Wankhede. Historically, teams batting second have won approximately 54% of matches (67 wins out of 123 games).

The average first innings score is approximately 170 runs. However, the ground often sees higher scores due to its short boundaries and a fast outfield.

Rohit Sharma holds the record for the most IPL runs at this stadium, with 2,439 runs scored in 84 innings.

Lasith Malinga remains the leading wicket-taker at Wankhede with 68 wickets.

The record team score at the venue id 235/1, set by Royal Challengers Bengaluru against Mumbai Indians in 2015.

The highest individual score at the ground belongs to AB de Villiers who struck an unbeaten 133 off 59 balls during that same 2015 match for RCB.

The best bowling figures at the ground are shared by Harbhajan Singh (5/18 vs CSK in 2011) and Wanindu Hasaranga (5/18 vs SRH in 2022).

Weather

Expect a warm, humid evening in Mumbai this Sunday. Temperatures will hover around 28 degrees, but the high humidity will make it feel closer to 32.

While mostly clear skies are predicted, there is a slight chance of brief localized showers. With light breezes coming off the Arabian Sea, it should be a great night for cricket.

Form

• MI: L, W, L, W, L.
• SRH: L, A, L, W, W.

Last five winners head-to-head: MI, KKR, KKR, MI, KKR.

Predicted line-ups

MI: Rohit Sharma, Quinton de Kock, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Will Jacks, Hardik Pandya, Naman Dhir, Mitchell Santner, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Trent Boult.

SRH: Finn Allen, Ajinkya Rahane, Cameron Green, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Rinku Singh, Ramandeep Singh, Sunil Narine, Vaibhav Arora, Varun Chakaravarthy, Kartik Tyagi, Umran Malik.

Key players

Jasprit Bumrah

Jasprit Bumrah enters the 2026 season as the undisputed leader of MI’s attack, coming off a stellar T20 World Cup campaign where he was the joint-highest wicket-taker.

Ranked as the fifth best T20I bowler in the world, his importance to Mumbai cannot be overstated.

He is the gold standard for T20 bowling, known for his lethal yorkers and deceptive slower balls that stifle even the most aggressive batters.

At the Wankhede Stadium, where boundaries are short and the pitch offers true bounce, Bumrah’s ability to provide breakthroughs in the powerplay and maintain a rare economy rate under 7.50 during the death overs will be vital.

Varun Chakravarthy

Varun Chakravarthy remains KKR’s primary mystery weapon and a critical component of their world-class spin department.

After finishing as the joint-highest wicket-taker in the recent T20 World Cup, he brings immense confidence into this high-stakes opener.

Although he faced a slight dip in form during the latter stages of the World Cup, KKR management continues to bank on his unique ability to break partnerships during the middle overs.

On a batting-friendly Wankhede track, Chakravarthy’s variations and accuracy will be essential to keeping MI’s power-hitters in check and ensuring KKR can control the game’s tempo.

Prediction: Mumbai Indians

Another tough one to call given how early we are in the tournament, but with home advantage and laden with batters who are in good form, expect MIs to take this one.

Suryakumar Yadav had a quiet World Cup and Quinton de Kock’s form took a slight dip since the start of the year, but this is a team with outstanding depth in all departments.

They have traditionally been slow starters in the IPL but expect them to open with a win in 2026.

Rajasthan Royals v Chennai Super Kings

Key talking points

Rajasthan Royals

Rajasthan enters the 2026 season with a significantly altered top order following the high-profile trade of their long-time captain.

To fill the leadership void, RR has entrusted Yashasvi Jaiswal with greater responsibility, pairing him with the record-breaking 15-year-old sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who returns to the side as their primary explosive weapon.

The Royals also bolstered their middle-order power by signing Liam Livingstone for ₹13 crore to replace the departing Jos Buttler.

While they lost the veteran experience of Ravichandran Ashwin, the acquisition of Noor Ahmad ensures their spin department remains lethal alongside Yuzvendra Chahal.

Chennai Super Kings

CSK heads into this encounter defined by the blockbuster acquisition of Sanju Samson, who joins the Yellow Army to open the batting alongside captain Ruturaj Gaikwad.

This move follows the departure of Devon Conway, signalling a shift toward a more aggressive Powerplay strategy. While MS Dhoni is still in the mix and able to keep wicket it is unclear if he will get the role or if that will fall to Samson.

While the loss of Ravindra Jadeja to his home franchise is a sentimental and tactical blow, the all-round department is well stocked with Shivan Dube, Matthew Short, Zak Foulkes and Prashant Veer all capable replacements.

Venue: Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati

The Baspara Cricket Stadium is not the primary home venue for the Rajasthan Royals, although they traditionally play a handful of fixtures here every season. Their main ground is the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur.

Teams generally prefer to bowl first in Guwahati due to the potential dew factor in evening matches. However, batting first has historically been successful here, with teams winning approximately 50% of completed IPL matches.

The average first innings score is high, sitting at approximately 180 runs. The pitch is consistently regarded as a ‘batting paradise’.

Riyan Parag (Rajasthan Royals), a local favourite, holds the record for the most IPL runs at this stadium with 137 runs across 5 innings.

Yuzvendra Chahal is the leading wicket-taker at the venue in the IPL, having claimed 6 wickets.

The team score at the venue is 199/4, set by the Rajasthan Royals against the Delhi Capitals in 2023.

Quinton de Kock holds the record for the highest individual score at the venue with an unbeaten 97* off 61 balls against Rajasthan Royals in 2025.

Nathan Ellis holds the record for best figures at the ground with 4/30 against the Rajasthan Royals during the 2023 season.

Weather

Guwahati is expected to experience a damp and humid Monday evening. Temperatures will settle around 22 degrees, though it will feel slightly warmer at 25°C due to high humidity levels.

While the skies will be partly cloudy, there is still a 20 percent chance of light rain passing through after sunset. Winds will remain light, blowing from the east.

Form

• RR: W, L, L, L, W.
• CSK: W, L, W, L, L.

Last five winners head-to-head: RR, RR, CSK, RR, RR.

Predicted line-ups

RR: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Shimron Hetmyer, Ravindra Jadeja, Dasun Shanaka, Jofra Archer, Ravi Bishnoi, Sandeep Sharma, Nandre Burger.

CSK: Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sanju Samson, Ayush Mhatre, Dewald Brevis, Shivam Dube, MS Dhoni, Ravichandran Ashwin, Noor Ahmad, Khaleel Ahmed, Matt Henry, Spencer Johnson.

Key players

Vaibhav Suryavanshi

The 15-year-old phenom Vaibhav Suryavanshi is the cornerstone of the Rajasthan Royals’ youth-driven strategy.

After a record-breaking 2025 season where he became the youngest IPL centurion with a 35-ball 101, he enters this match fresh off a Player of the Tournament performance in the recent U-19 World Cup.

With a career T20 strike rate of 204.37, Suryavanshi’s role as the primary explosive opener is vital for RR to exploit the powerplay.

His ability to handle extreme pace, documented facing 157 kph sidearms in trials, makes him RR’s most dangerous weapon at the top.

Sanju Samson

In what is arguably the most significant storyline of the season, Sanju Samson faces his former franchise after a historic pre-season trade to Chennai Super Kings.

Samson arrives in peak form as the Player of the Tournament from India’s victorious 2026 T20 World Cup campaign, where he excelled as an opener.

CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad has confirmed that Samson will open the batting alongside him, a tactical shift aimed at solving CSK’s previous powerplay struggles.

Samson’s intimate knowledge of the RR bowlers and his newly refined aggression make him the key to anchoring CSK’s revamped top order.

Prediction: Chennai Super Kings

An intriguing matchup with a host of subplots, most notably the trade that saw Sanju Samson leave RR to join CSK with Ravi Jadeja and Sam Curran moving in the opposite direction.

There is also the small matter of the world’s best teenagers facing up to each other with U19 World Cup winners Vaibhav Suryavanshi and Ayush Mhatre set to do battle.

It is early days in the IPL, but we are tipping CSK to take this one. They boast an interesting blend of youth and experience and in Sanju Samson they have the form player of the recently completed T20 World Cup.

CSK had a disappointing campaign in 2025; they should be much better this time round.

Read next: The most unbelievable IPL records that you really need to know

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The most unbelievable IPL records that you really need to know

The IPL is starting to draw focus with franchise cricket’s marquee event set to commence before the end of March.

First staged in 2008, 2026 will be the 19th iteration of the tournament.

There have been many great feats and records set over the course of the previous 18 events. Let’s take a moment to have a look at five of the most remarkable IPL stats.

1. Virat Kohli and the 200-run stands

Of the seven partnerships of 200 runs or more in IPL history, Virat Kohli has been involved in three of them. That is a staggering level of consistency in a format built on risk and rapid scoring.

Two of those monumental stands came alongside AB de Villiers for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, a pairing that defined an era for the franchise. Their understanding of tempo, field placement and pressure turned daunting totals into routine pursuits.

To feature in nearly half of all 200-plus partnerships underlines Kohli’s longevity and adaptability. In a competition defined by short careers and shifting squads, his presence at the heart of so many record-breaking stands is extraordinary.

2. Brendon McCullum’s outrageous opening salvo

The first ever IPL match in 2008, between Kolkata Knight Riders and Royal Challengers Bangalore, announced the tournament in unforgettable fashion.

Brendon McCullum blasted 158 not out from 73 balls, striking 13 sixes and 10 fours as KKR romped to a 140-run win. It was audacious, theatrical and perfectly timed for a league seeking instant credibility.

For five years it stood as the highest individual score in IPL history before being eclipsed by Chris Gayle. Even now though, McCullum’s 158 remains the second-highest score the league has seen.

Remarkably, it is also one of only three IPL centuries scored for Kolkata, the others coming from Sunil Narine and Venkatesh Iyer. That the tournament’s defining early innings still holds such statistical weight speaks volumes.

Also read: Five big IPL coaching moves that could shape the 2026 season

3. Rohit Sharma’s forgotten hat-trick

Rohit Sharma is rightly celebrated as one of the IPL’s greatest batters, with 7,046 runs placing him among the competition’s elite. Yet one of the most unusual feats of his career came with the ball.

Playing for the Deccan Chargers in 2009 against the Mumbai Indians, Sharma produced a spell of 4 for 6 in just two overs, including a hat-trick.

He dismissed Abhishek Nayar and Harbhajan Singh with successive deliveries before JP Duminy fell to the first ball of his next over. Two balls later Saurabh Tiwary was stumped, sealing the match and a rare all-round masterpiece.

For a player remembered primarily for his batting, it remains a delicious statistical quirk.

4. Aaron Finch, the ultimate IPL nomad

Franchise cricket is built on movement, but no one has embraced the carousel quite like Aaron Finch.

The former Australia captain has represented nine different IPL franchises, a record that underlines both his global demand and the shifting strategies of teams at auction tables.

From early stints with Rajasthan and Delhi to later roles across the league, Finch became the embodiment of the short-term T20 contract.

Few players can claim to have worn so many colours in one competition. In a league often associated with loyalty to marquee names, Finch’s journey tells a different story about opportunity and reinvention.

5. A hat-trick of hat-tricks

Hat-tricks are rare in T20 cricket. To claim more than one in the IPL is exceptional in India.

Yuvraj Singh achieved the feat twice in a single season, a reminder of his knack for game-turning bursts. Yet even that pales next to the record of Amit Mishra, who has taken three IPL hat-tricks.

Mishra’s treble stands alone in tournament history. In a format dominated by batters and shaped by unforgiving margins, the ability to seize three wickets in three balls on multiple occasions is extraordinary.

As the IPL approaches its 19th season, these feats serve as a reminder of why the competition continues to captivate. Records fall and stars emerge, but the league’s archive of improbable numbers and outrageous performances only grows richer with time.

Read next: The ECB opening doors to private investors in the Hundred has already backfired

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