Why Fans Call MS Dhoni the Baap of IPL – Explained with Records

 

When cricket lovers talk about who is the baap of IPL or who is the father of IPL, one name stands tall — MS Dhoni. From leading Chennai Super Kings to five IPL titles to being one of the calmest captains under pressure, Dhoni has earned this title not just through performances but also with unmatched consistency and leadership.

Let’s understand what makes Dhoni the undisputed Baap of IPL, backed by solid records, facts, and fan admiration.

The Man Who Transformed Chennai Super Kings

MS Dhoni took charge of CSK in 2008, and since then, he has built a team culture based on trust, clarity, and winning mentality.

What Dhoni achieved with CSK:

• 5 IPL titles (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, 2023)

• 10 Final appearances

• 12 Playoff qualifications in 14 seasons

These numbers show how Dhoni made CSK the most consistent franchise in the league.

Leadership That Turned Records Into Legacy

Dhoni is not just another captain. He’s a leader with numbers that demand attention:

• Most matches as captain in IPL: 226+

• Most wins as captain: 133+

• Win percentage over 58%

• First captain to win 100+ matches in IPL history

No other player has matched this level of consistency while handling captaincy duties for so many years.

The Finisher Who Stole Countless Matches

While Dhoni’s captaincy is legendary, his finishing skills are equally iconic. He is known for staying cool under pressure and delivering when it matters the most.

Notable batting achievements:

• Over 5,000 IPL runs

• Highest score: 84* off 48 balls

• Over 250 sixes in IPL

• 24 Man of the Match awards

Dhoni has finished games that seemed lost, again and again, making him a fan favorite and a nightmare for opponents.

Wicket-Keeper with Lightning Reflexes

Even behind the stumps, Dhoni changed the way wicket-keeping is perceived in T20 cricket. His fast hands and decision-making saved runs and secured crucial wickets.

Key wicket-keeping stats:

• 143 dismissals (catches + stumpings)

• Fastest stumping in IPL history (0.08 seconds reaction)

• Safe hands in pressure situations

This side of Dhoni’s game often goes unnoticed but is a vital part of why he's the baap of IPL.

Fan Love: The Emotional Connect

The CSK fanbase treats Dhoni like a god. Across India and even overseas, yellow jerseys with number 7 flood the stands. Fans chant his name even in matches that don’t involve CSK.

Reasons fans call him the baap of IPL:

• Trust: Dhoni is calm even when the match gets tense.

• Loyalty: He stuck with CSK even when they were banned in 2016 and 2017.

• Humility: He never craves the spotlight.

• Results: He wins matches with brain over brute force.

This rare combination of skill, heart, and humility makes fans feel like Dhoni plays for them.

When He Speaks, Everyone Listens

Dhoni may speak less, but his words carry weight. After every match, his thoughts give fans and analysts a deeper look into the game. He praises the young players, takes responsibility for losses, and never blames others.

This leadership off the field adds to why many believe he’s the father of IPL.

A Legacy That Goes Beyond Numbers

Numbers tell only part of the story. Dhoni’s calm, smart, and selfless style of playing and leading makes him the standard every new IPL captain aims to follow.

He brought in:

• Stability to the dressing room

• Clarity in decision-making

• Confidence to young players

• Trust in the franchise model

That’s why many call him the father of IPL in terms of shaping the league’s personality.

MS Dhoni’s Unique Records in IPL

Here are a few records only Dhoni holds:

• Only captain to win 5 IPL and 2 Champions League T20 titles

• Highest batting average among finishers (min 500 balls faced)

• Most sixes by a wicketkeeper

• Most matches played in IPL (250+)

These aren’t just numbers—they reflect commitment, talent, and legacy.

How Long Will Dhoni Play?

This is a hot topic each season. At 43, many expected Dhoni to retire. But he keeps coming back. His fitness, form, and decision-making are still sharp.

Even if he plays just a few balls in a season, his presence alone boosts CSK’s chances. Fans pray for just one more season every time.

Why Dhoni is Still the Baap of IPL in 2025

Despite the rise of players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, and KL Rahul, Dhoni remains the face of the league. While others may shine in patches, Dhoni’s consistency, charisma, and calm set him apart.

Fans don't just watch Dhoni play. They feel every moment with him. And that is why, even in 2025, he's still called the baap of IPL.

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FAQs

Who is the Baap of IPL?
MS Dhoni is widely considered the baap of IPL due to his leadership, success with CSK, and ability to finish matches under pressure.

What makes Dhoni the father of IPL?
His role in building CSK's legacy, guiding young talent, and winning multiple trophies has made fans call him the father of IPL.

Where does Dhoni stand among IPL legends?
Dhoni is right at the top. No other player has led a franchise so successfully for over a decade.

Why do fans still support Dhoni?
Fans admire his calm, humility, and results. He’s seen as a leader who never lets pressure affect him.

How many IPL titles has Dhoni won?
MS Dhoni has won 5 IPL titles with CSK — in 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, and 2023.

Will MS Dhoni play IPL 2026?
As of now, it’s uncertain. But fans continue to hope he’ll keep going for at least one more year.

Who is the real father of IPL – creator or player?
While Lalit Modi is credited for creating the IPL, MS Dhoni is often called the father of IPL by fans because of his legacy and contribution to the league.

What is Dhoni’s win percentage as a captain?
His win percentage is above 58%, which is among the highest in IPL history.

Why is Dhoni better than other IPL captains?
He is consistent, calm, tactically smart, and successful. His decisions often change games in a matter of minutes.

How many matches has Dhoni captained in the IPL?
He has captained over 225 IPL matches, the most by any player.