Who is the Most Dangerous Batsmen in IPL History?
The Indian Premier League (IPL) is full of excitement, big sixes, and unforgettable matches. Every season, fans watch in awe as some players take the game to another level with their powerful hitting. While many have played brilliant innings, only a few have earned the title of the most dangerous batsmen in IPL history.
These players don’t just score runs—they change the game in a matter of minutes. With their explosive batting, fearless approach, and incredible strike rates, they make bowlers struggle and fans cheer. From record-breaking sixes to match-winning knocks, these batsmen have left a lasting impact on the IPL.
Let’s get into the list of the most dangerous IPL batsmen and see what makes them special.
Most Dangerous Batsmen in IPL History
Rank | Player | Teams | Matches | Runs | Strike Rate | Average | 50s | 100s |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Virat Kohli | Royal Challengers Bangalore | 252 | 8004 | 131.97 | 38.66 | 55 | 8 |
2 | AB de Villiers | RCB, Delhi Daredevils | 184 | 5162 | 151.68 | 39.7 | 40 | 3 |
3 | Chris Gayle | KKR, RCB, Punjab Kings | 142 | 4965 | 148.96 | 39.72 | 31 | 6 |
4 | David Warner | DC, Sunrisers Hyderabad | 184 | 6565 | 139.77 | 40.52 | 62 | 4 |
5 | MS Dhoni | CSK, Rising Pune Supergiant | 264 | 5243 | 137.53 | 39.12 | 24 | 0 |
6 | Suryakumar Yadav | MI, KKR | 150 | 3594 | 145.32 | 32.08 | 24 | 2 |
7 | Andre Russell | KKR, Delhi Capitals | 127 | 2484 | 174.92 | 29.22 | 11 | 0 |
8 | Rishabh Pant | Delhi Capitals | 111 | 3284 | 148.93 | 35.31 | 18 | 1 |
9 | Rohit Sharma | Mumbai Indians, Deccan Chargers | 257 | 6682 | 131.14 | 29.72 | 43 | 2 |
10 | Jos Buttler | Rajasthan Royals | 107 | 3582 | 147.52 | 38.1 | 19 | 7 |
Related: Most Man of the Match in IPL
1) Virat Kohli – Royal Challengers Bangalore
No list of dangerous IPL batsmen is complete without Virat Kohli! The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) legend has been a part of the league since 2008 and has rewritten record books. With a jaw-dropping 8004 runs in 252 matches, he holds the title of the highest run-scorer in IPL history.
Kohli’s incredible consistency is reflected in his strike rate of 131.97 and an average of 38.66. But his best season came in 2016, when he smashed a record 973 runs in a single edition—a record that still stands today! His ability to chase big targets, anchor innings, and accelerate when needed makes him one of the most feared batsmen in the IPL.
Stats | M | R | HS | Avg | S/R | 100s | 50s | 4s | 6s |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
All IPL | 252 | 8,004 | 113 | 38.67 | 131.97 | 8 | 55 | 705 | 272 |
2) AB de Villiers – Royal Challengers Bangalore/Delhi Daredevils
When it comes to innovation and power-hitting, few can match AB de Villiers! Nicknamed ‘Mr. 360’ for his ability to send the ball in any direction, de Villiers has entertained fans with his unorthodox shots and fearless approach. His 5162 runs in 184 matches, combined with a blazing strike rate of 151.68, make him one of the most dangerous IPL batsmen ever.
De Villiers’ partnerships with Virat Kohli are legendary, and his ability to finish games with style has made him an IPL icon.
M | R | HS | Avg | S/R | 100s | 50s | 4s | 6s |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
184 | 5,162 | 133* | 39.70 | 151.68 | 3 | 40 | 413 | 251 |
3) Chris Gayle – Kolkata Knight Riders/Royal Challengers Bangalore/Punjab Kings
If there’s one player who defines power-hitting, it’s Chris Gayle, the Universe Boss! No one in IPL history has hit bigger sixes or dominated bowlers quite like him.
His record-breaking 175 off 66 balls in 2013* remains the highest individual score in IPL history. With 4965 runs in 142 matches at an explosive strike rate of 148.96, Gayle holds the record for the most sixes in IPL history (357). His aggressive batting style and fearless approach make him one of the most dangerous batsmen the IPL has ever seen.
Statistic | (M) | (R) | (HS) | (Avg) | (S/R) | 100s | 50s | 4s | 6s |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
All IPL | 142 | 4,965 | 175* | 39.72 | 148.96 | 6 | 31 | 405 | 357 |
Related:Which Has Been the Worst Team in IPL History?
4) David Warner – Delhi Capitals/Sunrisers Hyderabad
One of the most consistent overseas players in IPL history, David Warner has been a nightmare for bowlers. With 6565 runs in 184 matches, an average of 40.52, and a strike rate of 139.77, he has been the backbone of Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).
Warner’s ability to score quickly and anchor innings helped SRH win their first IPL title in 2016. His attacking mindset and leadership skills make him a true match-winner and one of the most dangerous batsmen in IPL history.
IPL Season | M | R | HS | Avg | S/R | 100s | 50s | 4s | 6s |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
All IPL | 184 | 6,565 | 126 | 40.52 | 139.77 | 4 | 62 | 663 | 236 |
5) MS Dhoni – Chennai Super Kings
MS Dhoni, the successful cool captain of Chennai Super Kings, is not just an excellent leader but also a powerful batsman. With 5243 runs in 264 matches, Dhoni’s finishing skills have won countless games for CSK.
His strike rate of 137.53 and a batting average of 39.12 reflect his ability to perform under pressure, especially in the final overs. Dhoni’s reputation as the best finisher makes him a key player in the list of most dangerous batsmen in IPL.
Stats | M | R | HS | Avg | S/R | 100s | 50s | 4s | 6s |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
All IPL | 264 | 5,243 | 84* | 39.13 | 137.54 | 0 | 24 | 363 | 252 |
6) Suryakumar Yadav – Mumbai Indians/Kolkata Knight Riders
Currently one of Mumbai Indians’ (MI) most reliable players, Suryakumar Yadav has been a game-changer in the IPL. His innovative stroke play, ability to hit gaps, and aggressive approach make him a fearless batsman.
With 3594 runs in 150 matches at a strike rate of 145.32, Suryakumar has delivered multiple match-winning performances. His ability to accelerate the scoring rate and rescue MI from tough situations makes him one of the most dangerous batsmen in the IPL today.
7) Andre Russell – Kolkata Knight Riders/Delhi Capitals
When it comes to pure power-hitting, few can match Andre Russell. His phenomenal strike rate of 174.92 is the highest among the top IPL batsmen.
With 2484 runs in 127 matches, Russell is known for his explosive batting in the death overs. He can change the course of a match in just a few balls, making him one of the most feared hitters in IPL history.
IPL Season | M | R | HS | Avg | S/R | 100s | 50s | 4s | 6s |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
All IPL | 126 | 2,484 | 88* | 29.22 | 174.93 | 0 | 11 | 170 | 209 |
8) Rishabh Pant – Delhi Capitals
One of the most exciting young players in IPL, Rishabh Pant has already made a name for himself with his fearless batting.
With 3284 runs in 111 matches and a strike rate of 148.93, Pant has the ability to turn a game around in just a few overs. His aggressive batting and confidence under pressure make him one of the most dangerous batsmen in the IPL.
9) Rohit Sharma – Mumbai Indians
Rohit Sharma, the captain of Mumbai Indians, is one of the most successful players in IPL history. He has led MI to five IPL titles while also being a run-machine.
With 6682 runs in 257 matches, an average of 31.39, and a strike rate of 131.14, Rohit’s ability to switch between aggression and stability makes him one of the most dangerous batsmen in IPL history.
10) Jos Buttler – Rajasthan Royals
Jos Buttler has proven to be one of the best overseas players in the IPL. His ability to dominate bowlers right from the start has made him a fan favorite.
With 3582 runs in 107 matches at a strike rate of 147.52, Buttler is known for his big-hitting ability. Whether it’s opening the innings or playing a finishing role, he is a true game-changer in the IPL.
Who is the most dangerous batsman in the IPL?
Virat Kohli is often regarded as the most dangerous batsman in IPL history due to his consistency, record runs, and ability to dominate bowlers across seasons.
What makes AB de Villiers one of the most dangerous batsmen?
AB de Villiers’ innovative shot-making, high strike rate, and ability to chase down tough targets make him one of the most dangerous players in IPL history.
Why is Chris Gayle known as the Universe Boss?
Chris Gayle holds several IPL records, including the highest individual score of 175* and the most sixes. His power-hitting ability and strike rate have earned him the nickname “Universe Boss.”
How does David Warner rank among the most dangerous batsmen?
David Warner is one of the most consistent overseas batsmen, with over 6500 runs in the IPL. His ability to lead and score quickly makes him a key player in the league’s history.
Why is MS Dhoni considered a dangerous batsman in IPL?
MS Dhoni’s role as a finisher, his ability to chase challenging totals, and his leadership make him one of the most dangerous and respected batsmen in the IPL.
Rivcky John
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