In the world of T20 cricket, the Indian Premier League (IPL) has made its name and identity all over the world. IPL is considered to be the most expensive league in the world in which players are selected from every corner of the world and they are bought at the highest price, like Mitchell Starc who was bought by KKR for Rs 24.75 crore in IPL 2024, and Rishabh Pant was bought by Lucknow Super Giants for Rs 27 crore in the 2025 season.
Just like IPL is a famous league, similarly the players of IPL have been given names like godfather of IPL player, and godfather of IPL team. In This blog, we are going to discuss about the Godfather of IPL, (Baap of IPL), and Godfather of IPL Team.
What makes one the Godfather of IPL
Before we dive into the main question of “who is the godfather of IPL?”, let us understand what makes one the godfather. The qualities that someone needs to have to be given the title of godfather are–
- Leadership: Leading a franchise with foresight is known as visionary leadership.
- Consistency: Performing well each and every season.
- Mentoring: Helping in the development of young players.
- Fandom: Establishing a culture that unites supporters and the team through good times and bad
- Impact: Significant impact on the league and the team.
Who is the Godfather of IPl?
Since the inauguration of IPL in 2008, players such as Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Suresh Raina and MS Dhoni have played in the league. Among the sea of incredible players, MS Dhoni’s unparalleled leadership makes him the IPL’s Godfather or Baap of IPL. He has won five IPL trophies while playing for the Chennai Super Kings since 2008. His impact extends beyond his stats; it is a result of his leadership, fan base and exceptional cricketing skills.
Godfather Of IPL – MS Dhoni
Mahendra Singh Dhoni, also known as MSD, is a former captain of the Indian cricket team who won the 2013 Champions Trophy, the 2011 ODI World Cup, and the 2007 T20 World Cup. He is regarded as one of the greatest wicket-keeper batsmen and is well-known for his composed leadership and finishing abilities. In 2020, Dhoni announced his retirement from international cricket; however, he is still playing for the Chennai Super Kings in the IPL.
| Attributes | Details |
| Name | Mahendra Singh Dhoni |
| Date of Birth | 7th July, 1981 |
| Place OF Birth | Ranchi, Jharkhand, India |
| Age | 44 years old |
| Role | Wicket-keeper Batsman |
| Batting Style | Right Hand Bat |
| Jersey No. | 7 |
Why MS Dhoni is the Godfather of IPL
In addition to leading CSK to five IPL championships, tied with the Mumbai Indians, he made the team one of the most reliable teams. He was the perfect captain because of his cool demeanor, quick thinking and finishing prowess. MS Dhoni is regarded as one of the best finishers and called the Godfather of IPL. He has helped his team win numerous matches with his well-planned attacks in the final overs.
He helped develop young players, supported his team through difficult times (such as the two-year ban) and continues to draw the crowd at every match.
MS Dhoni IPL Career
At the inaugural IPL auction in 2008, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) paid INR 9.5 Cr for MSD. In addition to leading CSK to five IPL championships since 2008, Dhoni has guided the team to the playoffs twelve times and the finals ten times. He hasn’t participated in the IPL auction since CSK purchased Dhoni. However, Sanjiv Goenka’s Rising Pune Supergiant team paid INR 12.5 Cr to get Dhoni in 2016 after CSK was suspended for two seasons. MSD was dismissed as team captain in 2017 after the squad finished bottom in the standings in 2016.
MS Dhoni IPL Stats
MS Dhoni made a spectacular comeback in 2018 and captained the Super Kings to their third IPL title. He appointed Ravindra Jadeja as captain in 2022, but it was a terrible choice that put the team in last place. When Dhoni took over as captain again in 2023, the squad won their sixth IPL title under his leadership. In his 226 IPL games as captain, Dhoni has a record of 133 victories, 91 defeats, and a win percentage of 58.84. MS Dhoni has amassed 5141 runs with a strike rate of 136.58 and an average of 39.24 with 24 half-centuries. His highest IPL score is of 84* runs. he has hit 245 sixes and 353 fours in his IPL career.
| Format | IPL |
| Matches | 256 |
| Runs | 5141 |
| HS | 84* |
| Avg | 39.24 |
| SR | 136.58 |
| Not Out | 91 |
| 4s | 353 |
| 6s | 245 |
| 50s | 24 |
| 100s | 0 |
| catches | 158 |
MS Dhoni’s Influence in IPL
MS Dhoni’s sportsmanship and tactical brilliance have earned him the respect of rival players and support. Known by his nickname “Thala,” which translates to “leader” in Tamil, he attracts unmatched fan loyalty and makes every CSK game a celebration. Every season, “Thala” and “Baap of IPL” trends take over social media, demonstrating his unparalleled appeal.
MS Dhoni’s impact on CSK’s Brand Value
More than half of the fan base supports the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) primarily because of MS Dhoni, who is the brand’s main motivator. In addition to making CSK one of the most successful teams on the field, his leadership and demeanor have increased the team’s commercial appeal, drawing in big sponsors and giving it a high brand value among IPL teams for a number of years.
Since the franchise’s identity was developed around Dhoni rather than a larger system or several star players, experts predict that CSK could lose up to 15% of its brand value, more than ₹150 crore, the day he retires. Dhoni’s personal brand commands enormous social media engagement and endorsement power. Dhoni’s presence is essential to CSK’s brand strength, marketability, and emotional connection because sponsors and supporters have a strong association with the team.
MS Dhoni Achievements and Records
One of the few cricket players who has participated in the IPL since its launch in 2008 is MS Dhoni. He is also the co-most successful captain and has the most caps in IPL history.
| Records | Stats |
| Most Caps as a Player | 250 |
| Joint-Most Successful Captain | 5 IPL Trophies |
| Second-Most Runs for CSK | 4508 |
| Most Sixes for CSK | 235 |
| Most Matches as Captain in IPL | 226 |
| Most Dismissals as Wicketkeeper | 180 |
| First Captain to Defend IPL Title | – |
Other Noteworthy Players
Rohit Sharma (IPL Team – Mumbai Indians)
One of the most intelligent leaders the IPL has ever seen is Rohit Sharma. His strategic thinking enabled MI to win 5 IPL titles. Rohit ties with MSD in being the most successful IPL captains, winning 5 trophies for MI. Along with Ambati Rayudu, he holds the record for most IPL trophies. In addition, he is a dependable batter who has won numerous games. Based solely on his performance, Rohit has a good claim to the title, even though Dhoni may be more iconic.
Virat Kohli (IPL Team – RCB)
The bond between Kohli and RCB is strong and unwavering. Even though the squad hadn’t won a trophy for eighteen years prior to winning it in 2025, Kohli has been at the top of the batting order for years. Regardless of whether RCB wins or loses, Kohli’s efforts have always made the ticket price worthwhile. He has given supporters some of the most exciting moments in the league.
Which Team is the Godfather of IPL?
Although Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings have the same number of trophies, 5, it is the Mumbai Indians team that wins the title of Godfather of IPL.
CSK has the legacy of MS Dhoni but Mumbai Indians has a star-studded Indian core in Rohit Sharma, Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah. What sets MI apart from other IPL teams is their eye for young talent and investment in them. They have nurtured young players like Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya, and Jasprit Bumrah to become the star players they are today.
MI also enjoy the huge support of its fans. MI has always been a team that draws top talent and commands a global following, from having Sachin Tendulkar as their iconic player in their early years to assembling a galaxy of international stars like Lasith Malinga, Kieron Pollard, Ricky Ponting, Mahela Jayawardene (as coach) and many others.
| Stats | Details |
| Matches played | 273 |
| Matches Won | 151 |
| Matches Lost | 121 |
| Win % | 55.31% |
| IPL Trophies | 5 |
Conclusion
Because of his revolutionary leadership, sustained excellence, and crucial role in forming both CSK and the tournament’s identity, MS Dhoni is unquestionably the IPL’s godfather. Long after he retires, his legacy will reverberate throughout the IPL; every clutch finish, every brilliant move and every jubilant CSK supporter in yellow bear witness to the godfather’s spirit.
Whereas when it comes to teams, MI is regarded by many fans and experts as the IPL’s godfather due to their combination of excellent performance, stability, and influence as well as their capacity to establish standards in both cricket and business.
FAQs
MS Dhoni is often regarded as the godfather of IPL.
Mumbai Indians is regarded as the godfather of IPL.
MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma are the most successful IPL captains.
Mumbai Indians have 5 IPL trophies.
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