The Baap of IPL: Uncovering the Father of IPL 2025

The (Indian Premier League) IPL debut in 2008 has evolved into the ultimate cricket league, creating icons and delivering unforgettable moments that shape the sport's history, especially in the IPL finals. The tagline ‘Baap of IPL’ connects with the champions—players and teams who set the standards of the T20 Heroes League, establishing a legacy in every IPL. As the IPL season 2024 progresses, here’s a look at individuals and teams deserving of the Baap of IPL finals.

1. Who is the Baap of IPL? 

When we discuss the ‘Baap of the Indian Premier League (IPL),' it means a conversation referring to those who truly own specific parts of the game. From batting legends, bowling legends, and captain legends to the best teams and the sides with the richest history possible, the term “Baap” contains everything about IPL, especially in terms of its impact on T20 cricket. The term does not only refer to numerical dominance but also a concept of mastery, consistency, and leadership.

2. Batting Baap of IPL Cricket: Virat Kohli

The great batsman of Indian cricket, Virat Kohli, who is famous for the IPL Batting Baap, has reached amazing heights in batting, becoming a cornerstone of the IPL saga. By 2024, Kohli had hit over 8,000 runs, reinforcing his status as the ultimate "Godfather of IPL player" in batting. His memorable 2016 IPL season, where he scored 973 runs, remains an unbroken record, making him the real baap of IPL.

Key Stats:

Total runs: Over 8004

Centuries: 8, the highest in IPL history

Kohli has been the most aggressive and one of the most consistent in cricket, and hence, when talking about the batting king of the IPL, he is the ‘baap’. His ability to deliver under pressure, electrifying shots, and captaincy skills contribute to his legendary status, particularly in the context of Kohli’s journey in the IPL.

3. Bowling Baap of IPL: Yuzvendra Chahal

Let's talk about another baap of IPL, Yuzvendra Chahal, also known as the “Bowling baap of IPL," has exceptional wicket-taking ability. With over 200 wickets by 2024, Chahal's unique spin places him among the best bowlers in the history of the IPL. His strategic gameplay makes him a cornerstone for any team he is part of.

Key Stats:

Total wickets: 205, a key statistic in the IPL saga.

Economy rate: 7.84

Chahal's ability to consistently outsmart batsmen has made him an essential part of the IPL legend, earning him a reputation as the baap of innovative strokeplay.

4. Fielding Baap of the IPL: Suresh Raina

"Mr. IPL," Suresh Raina is also the "Fielding King of IPL" due to his sharp reflexes and unmatched field coverage. Though retired from active IPL matches, Raina's legacy is alive and well, influencing current players. His career total of 100+ catches stands to his skill and game awareness.

Fielding Record:

Catches: 109

5. Baap of consistency in IPL Team: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI)

When it comes to team supremacy, two cricket teams consistently compete for the title of "Baap of IPL team captain": Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI). 

Chennai Super Kings (CSK):

Captain: MS Dhoni, the "Captain Cool."

IPL Titles: 5 (2008, 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021), making him a contender for the title of baap of IPL titles.

Mumbai Indians (MI):

Captain: Rohit Sharma, known as the "Master Strategist."

IPL Titles: 6 (2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2020, 2023), including a notable victory in the IPL 2020 final.

6. Sixer King of IPL: Chris Gayle—The Universe Boss

Chris Gayle, with his title "The Universe Boss," is renowned as the "Sixer Baap of IPL." His explosive batting style has brought fans to their grounds numerous times. By 2024, Gayle's record of 357 sixes remained unbroken, a reflection of his unmatched power-hitting capability, especially during IPL finals, solidifying his legacy as the baap of IPL in terms of six-hitting.

Memorable Records:

Most sixes in IPL history: 357

Highest individual score: 175 off 66 balls (2013)

7. Highest Fours in IPL: Shikhar Dhawan

IPL Godfather in hitting highest fours, Shikhar Dhawan, known for his sharp and aggressive batting, holds the title for the "Highest Fours in IPL." By 2024, Dhawan's ability to find gaps and play classy shots will have solidified his reputation as one of the

Key Achievements:

Total fours: 760

Total runs: 6,500+

Strike rate: Approximately 127

8. Baap of IPL Captains: MS Dhoni & Rohit Sharma

MS Dhoni: The Unmatched Captain Cool

Dhoni's calmness under pressure and strategic genius have defined CSK's success in IPL Cricket, and in his IPL career, he win the IPL trophy 5 times. His leadership has not only led to five IPL titles but also set a gold standard for captaincy, earning him the title of

Rohit Sharma: The Master Strategist

With 5 IPL titles under his captain position, Rohit Sharma’s tactical understanding has taken the Mumbai Indians to the standard of IPL success. His calculated approach and a keen eye for talent have been key in MI’s victory.

9. AB de Villiers – The 360-Degree Genius Baap of Cricket

AB de Villiers, or "Mr. 360," remains one of the most cherished players in IPL history. His innovative batting techniques, capable of hitting shots around the ground, make him one of the "Baaps" of modern cricket. 

Career Highlights: A journey filled with remarkable achievements in the IPL saga.

Total runs: 5,500+ in the pursuit of becoming the

Average: 39+, a testament to his consistency in the IPL in terms of performance, making him a key player in the Indian cricket team.

Best strike rate: Over 150

10. Jasprit Bumrah—The Pace Master

Jasprit Bumrah is often regarded as the "Baap of IPL bowlers" when it comes to sheer pace and accuracy. His yorkers and death-over skills have turned matches in his team's favour numerous times, particularly in crucial IPL finals.

Statistics:

Total wickets: 145

Best bowling figures: 5/10

Economy rate: 7.2

11. MS Dhoni’s Legacy: The Ultimate Father of IPL

Few players in the history of IPL have left such an indelible mark as MS Dhoni. From his leadership to his grasp performances, Dhoni's influence has made him alike with the title "Baap of IPL." Cricket enthusiasts mostly believe that MS Dhoni is the real "baap of IPL captaincy.".

12. Rohit Sharma’s Strategic Brilliance

Rohit Sharma's adaptability and strategic moves have earned him recognition as a top-tier captain and player, especially in high-pressure situations like the IPL finals. His record-breaking number of titles with the Mumbai Indians secures his status as one of the "Baaps" of the game.

13. Virat Kohli: Baap of IPL 2024

With over 8,000 runs in his IPL career as of 2024, Kohli has set numerous records, including holding the highest number of centuries and a single-season run tally that remains unbeaten since 2016. His aggressive style, coupled with impeccable timing and leadership qualities, solidifies his reputation as the face of modern cricket. Kohli's rigid drive for excellence and ability to perform under pressure make him a true giant of the tournament, shaping Kohli’s journey in the IPL as the

Conclusion: Who is truly the Baap of IPL?

The title of the "Baap of IPL" can't be attributed to just one player or team. It represents a combination of consistent performances, leadership, and unforgettable moments. Whether it’s Virat Kohli’s determined batting, MS Dhoni’s iconic captaincy, or Chris Gayle’s explosive sixes, each brings a unique chapter to the story of the IPL.

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