Most Not-Outs by Opening Batsmen in the History of the Indian Premier League (IPL)

Most not-outs opening batsmen in IPL:The Indian Premier League (IPL) is known for its fast-paced, aggressive style of cricket, and a reliable opening batsman is essential to any team’s success. While staying not out at the end of an innings is a rare feat for opening batsmen, there have been a few who have managed to do it consistently over the years. These players are known for their ability to get off to strong starts while maintaining composure throughout the innings.

In this article, we reveal the 6 opening batsmen with the most not-outs in IPL history, highlighting their consistency and importance to their respective teams.

Most Not Outs by Opening Batsmen in IPL

BATSMEN	INNINGS AS OPENNER	NOT OUTS
Shikhar Dhawan	202	23
Virat Kohli	113	18
Chris Gayle	122	15
David Warner	163	15
Ajinkya Rahane	126	14
KL Rahul	99	13
Gautam Gambhir	123	11
Sachin Tendulkar	74	10
Ruturaj Gaikwad	60	8
Faf du Plessis	110	8

1. Shikhar Dhawan (23 Not-Outs)

Innings as Opener: 202 | Not Outs: 23

Shikhar Dhawan is the undisputed leader of this list, holding the record for the most not-outs by an opening batsman in the IPL, with an impressive 23 not-outs in 202 innings. Dhawan has been a reliable opener for teams like Mumbai Indians, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Delhi Capitals, consistently delivering strong starts. Known for his aggressive shot-making, he also possesses the ability to stabilize the innings when needed, making him one of the most adaptable openers in IPL history.

2. Virat Kohli (18 Not-Outs)

Innings as Opener: 113 | Not Outs: 18

Virat Kohli is a player who needs little introduction. With 18 not-outs from 113 innings as an opener, Kohli has been one of the most consistent performers in IPL history. Before becoming one of the world’s best middle-order batters, he opened the innings for Royal Challengers Bangalore from 2008 to 2012.

Kohli’s ability to score quickly in the powerplay set the stage for other big hitters like AB de Villiers to capitalize on his solid foundation.

3. Chris Gayle (15 Not-Outs)

Innings as Opener: 122 | Not Outs: 15

The West Indian powerhouse, Chris Gayle, is known for his explosive batting style, and he ranks third on this list with 15 not-outs in 122 innings as an opener. Gayle’s aggressive approach at the top has been a cornerstone of Royal Challengers Bangalore’s success, and his big-hitting abilities have earned him the title of one of the most dangerous openers in T20 cricket. His 175 against Pune Warriors* in 2013 remains one of the most iconic IPL performances ever.

4. David Warner (15 Not-Outs)

Innings as Opener: 163 | Not Outs: 15

David Warner has been a key figure in Sunrisers Hyderabad’s batting line-up. With 15 not-outs in 163 innings, Warner has been a consistent performer, and his leadership helped lead the team to its first IPL title in 2016.

Known for his attacking style, Warner’s aggressive batting often gives Hyderabad explosive starts, and he is also one of the few players to have won the Orange Cap three times.

5. Ajinkya Rahane (14 Not-Outs)

Innings as Opener: 126 | Not Outs: 14

Ajinkya Rahane is another reliable opening batsman who has been consistent with 14 not-outs in 126 innings. Rahane has played for several franchises, including Mumbai Indians, Rajasthan Royals, and Delhi Capitals. His ability to adjust his game, from an aggressive approach to a more stabilizing one, has been invaluable for the teams he has represented.

6. KL Rahul (13 Not-Outs)

KL Rahul has rapidly climbed the ranks, registering 13 not-outs in 99 innings as an opening batsman. Known for his elegant stroke play, Rahul has been a standout performer for Punjab Kings, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Lucknow Super Giants. In IPL 2022, Rahul scored two centuries and led Lucknow to the playoffs in their inaugural season.

Notable Mentions

Other notable opening batsmen who have had significant not-outs in IPL history include:

• Gautam Gambhir with 11 not-outs
• Sachin Tendulkar with 10 not-outs
• Faf du Plessis with 8 not-outs

These players have also shown the ability to anchor innings and deliver match-winning performances while maintaining composure in high-pressure situations.

Conclusion

Opening the batting in the IPL is a high-pressure role, and staying not out at the end of an innings is a rare achievement. Shikhar Dhawan leads the pack with his remarkable consistency, while players like Virat Kohli, Chris Gayle, and David Warner have set the stage with their aggressive batting styles. Whether it’s power-hitting, stabilizing the innings, or building a strong foundation, these openers have played key roles in their teams’ successes.