Who Played Most Number Of IPL Matches?

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The Indian Premier League (IPL) is not only a cricket league but a legacy-defining platform. Over the years, certain players have made their mark in IPL history, not only with their exceptional ability but also with incredible consistency and longevity.

Playing more than 200 games in a league as competitive as the IPL is no easy task. These players not only survived but excelled, becoming legends of their teams. Here is a glimpse of the Top 5 players with the most matches played in IPL history as of the 2025 season.

Top 5 Most-Capped Players in IPL (2008–2025)

Rank	Player	Matches	Teams Played For	Span	Titles Won
1	MS Dhoni	264	CSK, Rising Pune Supergiant	2008–2025	5 (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, 2023)
2	Dinesh Karthik	257	DC, KKR, RCB, MI, KXIP, GL	2008–2024	0
3	Rohit Sharma	257	MI, Deccan Chargers	2008–2025	5 (2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2020)
4	Virat Kohli	252	Royal Challengers Bangalore	2008–2025	0
5	Ravindra Jadeja	240	CSK, RR, GL, Kochi Tuskers Kerala	2008–2025	5 (with CSK)

1. MS Dhoni – 273 Matches

If IPL had a poster boy for consistency, leadership, and calm under pressure, it would undoubtedly be Mahendra Singh Dhoni. From leading the Chennai Super Kings since 2008 to winning five IPL titles, Dhoni has been more than just a captain; he has been the spine of CSK’s identity. He has also captained the IPL team in the most number of matches.

Impact

Dhoni has finished numerous games from impossible situations.
CSK reached the playoffs in 12 of 14 seasons under his captaincy.
His tactical brilliance turned even average sides into title contenders.

2. Rohit Sharma – 266 Matches

Rohit Sharma isn’t just MI’s best player, but arguably the most successful IPL captain. Under his leadership, Mumbai Indians won five IPL trophies, building a near-dynasty.

Impact:

Captained MI to 5 titles, matching Dhoni’s record.
Known for giving his team strong starts and anchoring innings.
Strategically groomed MI into a talent factory with a winning mentality.

3. Virat Kohli – 262 Matches

Virat Kohli is the soul of Royal Challengers Bangalore. Though an IPL trophy has eluded him, Kohli’s batting heroics have made RCB one of the most followed franchises in the league.

Impact:

Holds record for most runs in IPL history (8,447).
The iconic 2016 season, in which he scored 973 runs in a single edition.
His loyalty to RCB has made him the heartbeat of the franchise.

4. Dinesh Karthik – 257 Matches

While Dinesh Karthik never lifted the IPL trophy, his utility across various franchises is unmatched. From finishing matches with the bat to being a safe glove behind the stumps, Karthik’s versatility has kept him relevant for nearly two decades.

Impact:

Played for six different teams, often taking the role of middle-order stabilizer.
Key finisher in many crucial chases, especially for KKR and RCB.
His experience brought balance to teams and guided younger players.

5. Ravindra Jadeja – 249 Matches

Ravindra Jadeja brings balance like few others. Whether it’s a game-changing spell or a late-innings cameo, Jadeja’s all-round skills have been a significant asset for every team he’s represented, especially CSK.

Impact:

Won 5 titles with CSK, including the 2023 final, where he hit the winning runs.
Equally effective with bat, ball, and in the field.
Trusted by MS Dhoni as a finisher and death overs bowler.

In a format where careers are often brief and teams frequently reshuffle, these five players have demonstrated that longevity, performance, and adaptability are the keys to staying relevant. Whether as captains, finishers, or all-rounders, they have not just played matches, they have changed them.

Top 5 Players with the Most Matches Played in IPL History