Baap of IPL
Baap of IPL: Top 3 Legends Who Dominated the League – Kohli, Dhoni, or Rohit?
A few of the world’s finest cricket players have played in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Millions of spectators watch intense sports, dramatic finales, even iconic performances each year. Some players remain so famous throughout the years that spectators have started referring to them as the “Baap of IPL.” While “Baap” means “father” in Hindi, it refers to domination, respect, or an unmatched history in cricket.
Three names instantly spring to mind while discussing the “Baap of IPL”:
- Virat Kohli – known as the “Batting Baap of the IPL”
- MS Dhoni – the leader who defined calmness and clutch
- Rohit Sharma – the silent strategist with an eye for trophies
Let’s dive deep into what makes each of them worthy of this title.
What Does “Baap of IPL” Mean?
We should first dissect this before moving on to statistics and accomplishments.
Referring to someone as the “Baap” of something is a significant event in Indian pop culture. It indicates that they rule the field, establish the standard, or leave a legacy that others imitate. It’s what admirers experience when they witness excellence play out year after year; it’s not a government award.
Virat Kohli – The Batting Baap of IPL
Virat Kohli would serve as the heart of the Indian Premier League. Royal Challengers Bangalore (a RCB) has had him as their face since the 2008 season. Because of his fervor, aggression, intensity, and sheer class with the bat, Kohli has been dubbed the “Batting Baap of the IPL.”
What Makes Kohli the Batting Baap?
- Most runs in IPL history – With more than 7000 runs, Kohli is the IPL’s all-time top scorer.
- Most centuries in a single season – Kohli crushed four hundreds in a single season in 2016. That record is still in effect.
- Consistency – He has been the foundation of the RCB for over 15 years.
Notable IPL Records:
| Category | Stat |
| Matches | 250+ |
| Runs | 7300+ |
| Centuries | 7 |
| Highest Season Total | 973 runs (2016) |
| Strike Rate (Avg) | Around 130 |
| Role in Team | Top-order batsman, former captain |
While RCB has not yet won the IPL, fans adore Kohli because of his devotion & incredible batting consistency.
MS Dhoni – The Tactical Baap of IPL
The most famous captain of in IPL history is certainly MS Dhoni, affectionately referred to as “Thala” (leader) by CSK supporters. One of its most successful teams is Chennai Super Kings (CSK), thanks to Dhoni, who is famous for his composure, quick thinking, along with the ability to perform well under duress.
Why Dhoni is the Baap of IPL Leadership
- 5 IPL trophies with CSK – 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, 2023
- Most matches as captain – Over 200 games
- Finisher role – He’s won matches with sixes when it mattered most
- Calm under pressure – Ice in his veins, no matter how tough the game
Dhoni’s IPL Stats:
| Category | Stat |
| Matches | 250+ |
| Runs | 5000+ |
| Titles as Captain | 5 |
| Win Percentage as Captain | Around 59% |
| Dismissals as Wicketkeeper | Most in IPL history |
| Role in Team | Captain, wicketkeeper, finisher |
Even if Dhoni doesn’t always hit a lot of runs, his intelligence wins games. He is the IPL’s Tactical Baap because of this. “no follow”
Rohit Sharma – The Most Successful Captain
One of the best batsmen along with the most succesful IPL skipper is Rohit Sharma, often known as “Hitman.” The Mumbai Indians (MI) won 5 IPL championships under his direction, matching CSK.
What Makes Rohit the Baap of IPL Success?
- Tactical genius – Reads the game brilliantly, rotates bowlers smartly
- 5 IPL titles – 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2020
- Clutch player – Performs when it matters the most
Rohit’s IPL Stats:
| Category | Stat |
| Matches | 240+ |
| Runs | 6300+ |
| Titles as Captain | 5 |
| Win % as Captain | 56% |
| Highest Score | 109* |
| Role in Team | Captain, opener, anchor |
When it arrives at cutlery, Rohit is the best. He’s skilled at inspiring others, leading from the front, and winning.
Fan Perspectives – Who Do the Fans Call “Baap of IPL”?
Ask different fans, and you’ll hear different answers:
- Kohli fans: “He’s the heart of IPL. Most runs, most fire, most passion.”
- Dhoni fans: “Thala is God. 5 trophies, best captain, coolest head.”
- Rohit fans: “Hitman is the GOAT. MI is the most successful because of him.”
Polls on social media frequently result in a split. Each has a devoted following, while all have compelling arguments.
Head-to-Head Comparison Table
| Player | Runs (approx.) | Centuries | Titles | Win % as Captain | Teams Played |
| Virat Kohli | 7300+ | 7 | 0 | ~48% | RCB |
| MS Dhoni | 5000+ | 0 | 5 | ~59% | CSK |
| Rohit Sharma | 6300+ | 1 | 5 | ~56% | MI, DC |
They each control a distinct area:
- Kohli: Baap with the bat
- Dhoni: Baap with the mind
- Rohit: Baap with trophies
IPL Titles Summary
| Year | Champion Team | Captain |
| 2010 | Chennai Super Kings | MS Dhoni |
| 2011 | Chennai Super Kings | MS Dhoni |
| 2013 | Mumbai Indians | Rohit Sharma |
| 2015 | Mumbai Indians | Rohit Sharma |
| 2017 | Mumbai Indians | Rohit Sharma |
| 2018 | Chennai Super Kings | MS Dhoni |
| 2019 | Mumbai Indians | Rohit Sharma |
| 2020 | Mumbai Indians | Rohit Sharma |
| 2021 | Chennai Super Kings | MS Dhoni |
| 2023 | Chennai Super Kings | MS Dhoni |
Take note to how Rohit or Dhoni rule this list.
Final Verdict – Who Is the Real Baap of IPL?
To be honest? What matters most to you will determine this.
- If you love runs and records – Kohli is your Baap
- If you believe in strategy and leadership – Dhoni takes the crown
- If trophies matter most – Rohit is the king
However, it is possible that they are all Baaps in their own right, each holding a distinct throne within the IPL’s realm.
What Do You Think?
Who’s the real Baap of IPL according to you? Kohli, Dhoni, or Rohit?
Drop your thoughts in the comments. Let the cricket banter begin!
