Baap of IPL: Exploring the True Legends of the League

When someone says “Who is the Baap of IPL?” or “Who is the father of IPL?” the answer depends on what you mean. Is it the creator of the league? The most dominant player? The man who shaped it behind the scenes? Or the one who owns it on the pitch?

Let’s break it down and understand who truly deserves the tag of “Baap of IPL” – and why.

Who Is the Father of IPL?

The title "Father of IPL" belongs to one man – Lalit Modi. He was the one who first introduced the idea of a franchise-based T20 league in India.

Back in 2008, Modi took a bold step by launching the Indian Premier League. His vision brought together big business, cricket stars, and entertainment in one explosive format.

Key Facts:

The first IPL season kicked off on April 18, 2008.
The league was modeled on the lines of the NBA and English Premier League.
Lalit Modi served as the first IPL chairman and commissioner.
Under his leadership, the IPL became a $4.1 billion brand by 2010.

Modi is no longer part of the IPL, but his idea changed cricket forever. That’s why he’s still called the father of IPL.

MS Dhoni – The Undisputed Baap of IPL

If you ask fans “Who is the Baap of IPL?” – one name echoes everywhere. MS Dhoni.

Dhoni has led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) since the beginning. With his calm mind and smart decisions, he turned CSK into one of the most successful IPL teams.

Achievements of MS Dhoni in IPL:

5-time IPL champion with CSK (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, 2023)
Played over 250 matches in IPL
Highest number of matches as captain in IPL history
Finished countless matches under pressure

What makes Dhoni special is not just numbers. It’s how he leads. Always calm. Always ahead. He connects with fans like no one else.

Even rival fans respect him.

Rohit Sharma – The Record Holder

If Dhoni is the Baap of IPL in leadership, Rohit Sharma isn’t far behind when it comes to success.

He led Mumbai Indians (MI) to five IPL titles, equaling CSK’s record. Some even argue that Rohit should be called the Baap of IPL based on numbers.

Rohit Sharma’s IPL Stats:

5 IPL trophies as captain (2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2020)
Over 6,200 runs in IPL
Known for his tactical decisions and big-match performances

Rohit also helped groom young talents like Bumrah, Hardik, and Surya. His role in shaping MI into a powerhouse is massive.

Virat Kohli – The Passionate King

Virat Kohli has never won an IPL trophy. But he still enjoys one of the biggest fan bases in the league.

His fierce loyalty to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), unmatched passion, and incredible run-scoring ability keep him in the Baap of IPL debate.

Kohli’s IPL Numbers:

Most runs in IPL history (7,600+)
Most runs in a single IPL season: 973 (2016)
Only player to play every season for one team

Kohli wears his heart on his sleeve. While trophies may have eluded him, fans still chant his name louder than most.

Chris Gayle – The T20 Monster

Talk about T20s and you can't skip Chris Gayle. The Universe Boss turned IPL into his playground.

From smashing sixes out of stadiums to scoring the first ever IPL century, Gayle brought energy and fireworks.

Gayle’s IPL Records:

Highest individual score in IPL: 175*
Over 350 sixes in IPL
Two Orange Caps

For years, bowlers feared Gayle. When he batted, stadiums went silent – then erupted.

Lasith Malinga – The Death Over King

Every team needs a match-winner with the ball. Malinga did it for Mumbai Indians. Again and again.

He mastered the art of yorkers and won MI several matches in crunch moments.

Malinga’s Legacy:

Over 170 wickets in IPL
Highest wicket-taker for MI for years
Match-winning final over in 2019 IPL final

Malinga is definitely the Baap of IPL among bowlers.

Who Is the Baap of IPL in 2025?

As of the latest season, Dhoni still commands huge love from fans. However, younger stars like Hardik Pandya, Shubman Gill, and Ruturaj Gaikwad are stepping up.

With every new season, a new hero emerges. But the foundation laid by legends keeps the league strong.

Why Do Fans Use the Term "Baap of IPL"?

In Indian culture, calling someone "Baap" means they’re the boss, the expert, the unbeatable one. It’s a term of respect and dominance.

In IPL, fans use this to celebrate players who:

Win consistently
Perform under pressure
Lead from the front
Inspire the crowd

Final Thoughts

So, who is the Baap of IPL? There’s no one right answer.

Lalit Modi is the Father of IPL.
MS Dhoni is the Baap for many fans.
Rohit Sharma is the numbers man.
Kohli rules the hearts.
Gayle ruled with the bat.

The Indian Premier League is full of legends. Each one has shaped the league in their own way. And that’s what makes the IPL magical.

FAQs

Who is the Baap of IPL? Most fans call MS Dhoni the Baap of IPL for his unmatched leadership and success with CSK.

Who is the Father of IPL? Lalit Modi is widely known as the Father of IPL, as he started the league in 2008 .

What makes Dhoni the Baap of IPL?

His calm captaincy, 5 titles with CSK, and match-finishing ability make him the ultimate IPL boss.

Why is Rohit Sharma also called the Baap of IPL?

Rohit has won 5 titles with MI and built a team of champions, earning him that tag.

How many titles has Dhoni won as IPL captain?

Dhoni has won 5 IPL titles with Chennai Super Kings.

Will Virat Kohli ever win an IPL trophy?

Only time will tell, but with RCB’s strong squad, fans still hope he will lift the trophy one day.

What does ‘Baap of IPL’ mean in cricket slang?

It means the most dominant or legendary figure in the IPL – someone who rules with authority.

Where did the phrase ‘Father of IPL’ come from?

It comes from Lalit Modi’s role in founding the IPL and shaping its structure.

Who has the most runs in IPL history?

Virat Kohli holds the record for the most runs in IPL history.

How can a player become the next Baap of IPL?

By delivering consistent match-winning performances, leading with courage, and earning fan loyalty.