The Indian Premier League has served as an incredible pool of talent where domestic and foreign players jostle to create glory. Since its inception in 2008, the cash-rich league has seen the birth of numerous high-profile figures loaded with exceptional talent and match-winning abilities. However, only a select few go on to etch their name in the record books on the back of their ground-breaking exploits. Such players tend to stand out from the crowd when winning becomes a regular occurrence for them.

In this article, we will uncover the top five players who have received the most Player of the Match (POTM) awards in the history of IPL.

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AB de Villiers (Delhi Daredevils & Royal Challengers Bangalore) – 25 awards

The South African legend, known for his innovative batting and a vast repertoire of shots in his book, tops the list with 25 awards to his name. De Villiers made his IPL debut with the now-defunct Delhi Daredevils in the 2008 season. He stayed with the franchise for three seasons and featured in 28 games before moving to RCB in 2011. His fortune changed once and for all when he joined the Bangalore-based outfit. De Villiers achieved an incredible amount of success with RCB. The former Protea legend finished his stint with RCB on a high, becoming the second-highest run scorer for them with 2001 runs across 58 innings. He played his best IPL innings of 129* and averaged over 40 for RCB across 10 seasons. 

Chris Gayle (Kolkata Knight Riders, Royal Challengers Bangalore & Punjab Kings) – 22 awards

The Universe Boss, hailing from an exotic island of Jamaica, needs no introduction. Gayle has been a destructive force in the IPL and a deadly threat for the bowlers to contend with. The Caribbean dynamite earned 22 POTM awards in 142 matches, making him the second-highest receiver of this prestigious award. Fans have good fond memories of Gayle massacring the bowlers mercilessly across several IPL editions. During his prime days, once he would get into his zone, no force in the world could ever hold him back. The 45-year-old has been a part of three IPL franchises. He made his debut with KKR and showcased some early flashes of brilliance before moving to RCB, where he spent the majority of his IPL career. His score of 175* against Pune in the 2013 season remains his career best score in the IPL. Overall, Gayle had a very illustrious IPL career, amassing 4965 across 141 innings, averaging just under 40.

Rohit Sharma (Deccan Chargers & Mumbai Indians) – 21 awards

The former Mumbai Indians captain, with his consistent batting and leadership, has secured 20 POTM awards in 264 matches. His most recent POTM award came during MI's do-or-die Eliminator clash against GT on May 30. Rohit came out to bat with a positive intent and deflated the Titans in the first half by slamming an impressive 81 to keep his side alive for the Qualifier 2 game. The World Cup-winning captain has been associated with two IPL franchises. His career began with the now-defunct Deccan Chargers in the 2008 season. Although he was used primarily as a spin-bowling all-rounder in those days, Rohit's batting blossomed over the years and skyrocketed to the next level when he joined MI in 2011. Rohit is now the highest run-getter for MI with 2784 runs across 104 innings. The 38-year-old played a pivotal role with the bat and on the back of his uncanny captaincy abilities, MI succeeded in securing five title wins. His ability to stand up for his side in dire situations distinguishes him from some of the best in the business. 

Virat Kohli (Royal Challengers Bangalore) – 19 awards

The former RCB captain, known for his aggressive batting, has earned 19 POTM awards in 260 matches. Virat Kohli has been around in the IPL for a lifetime. And unlike some of his comrades, Virat never switched his allegiance. Virat began his career with RCB in 2008 and has stayed with them ever since his debut. Virat's match-winning abilities are second to none. Also dubbed Chase Master, Virat relishes the challenge of batting last, as most of RCB's wins have come in the second innings whenever Virat scores big. In the 2025 season alone, the 36-year-old has played some absolute blinders to take RCB all the way to the final. He is now the leading run scorer for his franchise this season, along with Phil Salt. The Indian legend has featured in a whopping 226 games and holds eight IPL hundreds whilst averaging a shade below 40. 

MS Dhoni (Chennai Super Kings) – 18 awards

India's all-time great isn't too far behind in the list with 18 POTM awards in 278 games. Notably, Dhoni has become the oldest player to receive the IPL Player of the Match award, surpassing former Rajasthan Royals leg-spinner Pravin Tambe. Known for his exhilarating hitting at the death and lauded by many for his tactical brilliance, Dhoni has been a true asset for CSK and also for his national side. On the back of his captaincy alone, CSK has won five IPL titles, making them the joint-most successful team along with MI. His association with the cash-rich league began in 2008 when he joined CSK. The 43-year-old never looked back since that day and has gone on to feature in 278 games for CSK. Dhoni has recorded 5439 runs at a stunning average of 38.3, which included his career-best score of 83*. In addition, he has also effected 158 catches and 47 stumping chances, making him one of the most athletic wicketkeepers in modern-day cricket.

The above-mentioned players have consistently delivered match-winning performances, making them the top five players to have ever earned the most POTM awards as of the IPL 2025 season. Out of the top five, Virat, Rohit, and Dhoni are the only three players who haven't announced their retirement from this league. 

Rohit Sharma is in strong form against Gujarat in the Eliminator match and has scored a half-century. With this, he has also completed a triple century and achieved something that only Virat Kohli has done in the IPL so far.

Rohit's performance in IPL 2025 hadn't been very impressive until now, but in this big match, his bat finally spoke. He attacked the Gujarat bowlers from the start and scored runs quickly. He got two chances in the second and third overs, which he made full use of. Rohit fulfilled the responsibility of playing a big innings for his team when it mattered the most.

Rohit hit his 300th six in the IPL on Rashid Khan's delivery. Rashid came to bowl the ninth over for Mumbai Indians, and Rohit hit the fourth ball over square leg for a six. With this shot, Rohit also completed 7000 runs in the IPL.

Also Read -WATCH: Shubman Gill Refuses Handshake with Hardik Pandya – What’s Brewing?

Chris Gayle holds the record for the most sixes in the IPL. He has hit 357 sixes in 141 innings. Rohit reached the 300-six mark in 266 innings. Virat Kohli has hit 291 sixes in 258 innings, MS Dhoni has 264 sixes in 242 innings, and AB de Villiers has hit 251 sixes in 170 innings.

IPL POSTER FOR ROHIT SHARMA. 🌟 pic.twitter.com/27KPHgJ6nX

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) May 30, 2025

Rohit also completes 7000 runs

Talking about runs, The Hitman has scored 7000 IPL runs in 266 innings. Virat Kohli is at the top with 8618 runs in 258 innings. Shikhar Dhawan is at number three with 6769 runs in 184 innings. After him comes Mr. IPL, Suresh Raina, who has scored 5528 runs in 200 innings.

Luck was on his side

The Indian skipper was lucky in the match against the Gujarat Titans. First, Gerald Coetzee dropped a catch when Rohit was batting on 3 runs, off the bowling of Prasidh Krishna. Later, when he was 12, wicketkeeper Kusal Mendis dropped another catch. Mendis reacted late, and the opportunity was missed.

Over the years, tattoos have become a part of cricket. Tattoo is not just a style statement for everyone; it is a medium of expression. Like a delicate cover drive or a cut shot over the point, a well-inked tattoo is an art; art can’t live without artists, and cricketers are the artists on the lush green surface with a bat or ball in hand. In the era of limited-over cricket, over the bowlers, batters mostly remain under the spotlight. Roaring, blazing, thunderous… these are some of the words we often use to describe how fearless a batsman was on the crease. Tattoos can’t talk or write, but they can demonstrate.

Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli’s love for tattoos is on another level. He has over 10 tattoos on his body that depict the star batter's important events in his life, like his ODI number, his parents, and spiritual beliefs. But there is a samurai tattoo over his bicep, which stands out among all. "I felt like these are the same characteristics that I share. I've had to fight for everything that I've gotten in life so far, and I will have to be this person all my life because of the choices that I will keep making. And hence it was a representation of me wanting to do something so badly, which was wanting to become a professional cricketer," he said in an interview.

Ben Stokes

The England international’s upper body part is tightly wrapped with tattoos; a massive lion pride links his back. According to media reports, it took almost 28 hours to complete the tattoo. The tattoo, which depicts a lion, a lioness, and a couple of cubs, symbolizes Stokes himself as the lion, his better half as the lioness, and their two children as the cubs, like a family portrait.

Read More: [WATCH] Rohit Sharma unboxes precious gift for Mohammed Siraj on ground

Chris Gayle

When we talked about a lion tattoo and Ben Stokes, we had to discuss Chris Gayle, the Caribbean giant. A few years back, there was a tattoo war on social media. Gayle played for Punjab Kings (previously known as Kings XI Punjab), and Stokes represented Rajasthan Royals. Royals, in a social media post, flexed about his lion tattoo on his back. Punjab responded with another lion tattoo linked to Gayle’s chest, mostly on the front side of his body, a roaring lion with wings.

Hardik Pandya

Another Indian cricketer to join the party, Hardik Pandya. The lanky, full all-rounder has a bunch of small- and medium-sized tattoos on his body. But a lion tattoo on his forearm steals the show.

Suryakumar Yadav

The swashbuckling batter is a pure team man on the field and a family person off the field. His love for tattoos can’t be differentiated from his family. Yadav inked his parents' faces on his shoulder and the name of his wife, Devisha, on his chest, along with a Maori tattoo, which indicates Yadav’s ancestry.  

KL Rahul

“My body is my journal, and my tattoos are my story.” This was how KL Rahul described his love for tattoos. Like other players in the list, the versatile cricketer also has multiple tattoos on his body, out of which a tattoo on his arm with tribal art is the most eye-catching. 

Hitting five sixes in a single over is one of the most memorable and exhilarating feats in T20 cricket, highlighting an explosive batter's power, belief, and timing. Within the fast-paced formats of the Indian Premier League (IPL), not an abundance of players have hit five or more sixes in a single over having done so, but every player who has achieved it, changed the momentum of a match or potted the final nail in the coffin of the other team. These moments have gone on to become iconic in IPL history. From Universe Boss Chris Gayle to fearless youngster Riyan Parag, these batters have surpassed the limitations of the human capacity of fours and plundered sixes to leave spectators awestruck and bowlers in turmoil in the space of a single over.

1. Chris Gayle – 175 (66) | RCB vs PWI, IPL 2013

Chris Gayle’s innings of 175* off 66 balls remains the most iconic innings in the history of IPL. Playing for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) against Pune Warriors India (PWI) at iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, the legendary West Indian batter unleashed a storm that shattered multiple records of batting. The dynamic left-hand batter struck 13 fours and 17 sixes — including five sixes in a single over which was bowled by spinner Rahul Sharma. Gayle's brutal hitting left the opposition clueless and the crowd in awe. That over contributed massively to RCB’s record total of 263/5, the highest team total in IPL history. Gayle’s ability to maintain a strike rate of over 265 through the innings was unprecedented, and his five-sixes-over remains a textbook example of T20 carnage.

2. Rahul Tewatia – 53 (31) | RR vs KXIP, IPL 2020

In IPL 2020, Rahul Tewatia enjoyed one of the greatest transformations in professional T20 cricket. Chasing a total of 224 against Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings), the Rajasthan Royals found themselves in a tough position. Tewatia made a slow start, scoring 8 runs off 19 balls, frustrating everyone watching on TV and his own teammates. But then in the 18th over, Tewatia changed the game, hitting Sheldon Cottrell for the first five sixes of his career in one over. Cottrell's 18th over cost Punjab a total of 30 runs, and Tewatia's ending score of 53 runs off 31 balls turned the match upside down.

See Also: IPL 2025, Match 53: Kolkata Knight Riders vs Rajasthan Royals Full Match Highlights

3. Ravindra Jadeja – 62 (28) | CSK vs RCB, IPL 2021

Ravindra Jadeja’s phenomenal 62 not out off just 28 balls against Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2021 has to be up there as one of the greatest all-round performances in IPL history. Jadeja batted at No. 5 for Chennai Super Kings and blasted in the last over of the innings bowled by Harshal Patel. In that over, Jadeja hit five sixes and one four, to score 37 runs off that over, which was the most expensive over in IPL history at that time. With Jadeja’s finishing, CSK had reached 191/4.

4. Rinku Singh – 48 (21) | KKR vs GT, IPL 2023

Rinku Singh's 48* off 21 balls against Gujarat Titans in IPL 2023 was a fairytale ending to one of the most thrilling matches ever. Kolkata Knight Riders needed 29 runs off the last over. Facing Yash Dayal, Rinku did the unimaginable - hitting 5 straight sixes to clinch an impossible victory. This was not just about pure power, but it was also about nerves, temperament and timing of the shots. His innings was only 48, but left a lasting memory behind and established him as a clutch performer. The calmness he showed in a world of top-level pressure made it a finish for the ages and rightly will be one of the most replayed IPL moments ever.

5. Riyan Parag – 95 (45) | RR vs CSK, IPL 2025

In IPL 2025, Riyan Parag announced his arrival as a powerful finisher with a blistering 68 off just 28 balls against Chennai Super Kings. Known more for his potential than performance in earlier seasons, Parag turned the tide by smashing Moeen Ali for five sixes in one over, injecting life into Rajasthan Royals’ innings. His calculated aggression, shot selection, and fearless intent made headlines. Each six came with authority — from clean straight hits to lofts over midwicket — showcasing his evolved technique. It was a breakthrough moment for the young batter, and the innings played a pivotal role in RR posting a competitive total in a high-stakes match.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has seen some of the most astounding batting in the history of cricket, however it is safe to say that some of the brightest performances have come in the form of the fastest centuries ever performed in the league. To score a hundred runs in such rapid time not only displays a batter's raw and powerful abilities, but also shifts the momentum of a match 180 degrees. Over the years, players like Chris Gayle, Yusuf Pathan, and now the newer-generation stars have cemented their legacies in the IPL record books with scintillating innings. These rapid centuries will always be a reminder of the power, creativity, and fearlessness that T20 cricket demands. Whether it be sheer physicality or precise stroke making, the race for the fastest century is still one of the most admired achievements in the IPL's storied and ever-evolving history. Now let us look at the exclusive list;

1. Chris Gayle – 30 Balls (RCB vs PWI, 2013)

Chris Gayle's 175* against Pune Warriors India is probably the most devastating innings ever played in T20 cricket. At the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Gayle raced past his hundred in just 30 balls, making the bowlers look silly. During his innings, he hit 13 fours and a whopping 17 sixes as Royal Challengers Bengaluru posted a record total. Gayle's innings is also the fastest century in IPL history and the landmark is yet to be beaten.

2. Vaibhav Suryavanshi – 35 Balls (RR vs GT, 2025)

In IPL 2025, 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi stunned everyone in the cricketing world by hitting a 35-ball century against Gujarat Titans (GT). Chasing a daunting target 210 runs, Vaibhav’s fearless and aggressive batting led Rajasthan Royals to a historic win. This win was much needed for keeping RR in hunt of IPL Playoffs. His innings, laced with 7 fours and 11 sixes, made him the youngest player to score an IPL and T20 century, and the second-fastest century scorer in IPL history — a truly sensational feat.

3. Yusuf Pathan – 37 Balls (RR vs MI, 2010)

Yusuf Pathan announced himself as one of the most fearsome hitters of his time when he hammered a 37-ball century for Rajasthan Royals against Mumbai Indians. Chasing a huge total, Pathan turned the game on its head with his brutal hitting, although the Royals narrowly lost. His innings, featuring clean six-hitting and power strokes, remained the fastest century for years before Gayle’s blitzkrieg.

4. Heinrich Klaasen - 37 Balls (SRH vs KKR, 2025)

In the 68th match between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2025, Heinrich Klaasen produced a breathtaking innings. Coming in at number three, Klaasen smashed an unbeaten 105 off just 39 balls, reaching his century in a mere 37 deliveries. His knock was packed with explosive strokes, including 7 fours and 9 towering sixes, as he tore into the KKR bowling attack. With a strike rate of 269.23, Klaasen played a pivotal role in propelling SRH to a commanding total, displaying exceptional power-hitting and timing to register one of the fastest centuries of the season. This also helped SRH to put up a huge total of 278 runs, which is also the third-highest team total in the history of IPL.

4. David Miller – 38 Balls (KXIP vs RCB, 2013)

David Miller who is known as "Killer Miller" for his 38-ball century while playing for Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Under pressure, the South African left hand batter exploded into a T20 assault, hitting boundaries at will and finishing with a score of 101 runs. With some measured aggression and precision hitting, Miller led KXIP to the memorable chase, and lived upto his reputation as a game-changer in the world of T20 cricket.

5. Priyansh Arya – 39 Balls (PBKS vs CSK, 2025)

Punjab Kings (PBKS) secured 24-year-old Delhi opener Arya for INR 3.8 crore after a heated bidding war at the auction, and he's quickly proving his worth. After a strong debut performance with a 23-ball 47, Arya showcased his potential again against CSK. He launched the innings with a first-ball six and maintained his aggressive approach despite wickets falling at the other end. Arya then hammered Matheesha Pathirana for three consecutive sixes and a four, reaching a remarkable maiden IPL century in just the 13th over.

6. Travis Head  – 39 Balls (SRH vs RCB, 2024)

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Head had already made their mark earlier in the season with a 277-run explosion. In Bengaluru, they surpassed that feat. Head led the charge with a blistering powerplay performance, helping SRH reach 76 for no loss while bringing up his fifty. By the time he was dismissed in the 13th over after a rapid 41-ball 102, SRH had soared to 165. They ultimately finished with a record-breaking 287, the highest total in IPL history.

The Player of the Match (POTM) award in the IPL is one of the most prestigious recognitions in the tournament, honouring outstanding performances in a highly competitive setting. For MS Dhoni, capturing this award after five years in IPL 2025 was a significant moment in his career. His brilliant all-round display in the match against Lucknow Super Giants at the Ekana Stadium was crucial, earning him the recognition.

Dhoni’s performance was highlighted by an unbeaten 26 off 11 balls, demonstrating his signature finishing ability under pressure. In addition, his sharp wicket-keeping skills, which resulted in two dismissals, further solidified his claim to the award. This victory marked Dhoni's 18th Player of the Match accolade in IPL history, with his last such win coming in the 2019 season when he scored an unbeaten 44 against Delhi Capitals.

With this award, Dhoni now shares the title of the second-highest Indian Player of the Match award winner in IPL history, tied with Virat Kohli. However, both are still behind the all-time leader, highlighting the exceptional level of competition in the IPL and Dhoni's continued importance in the league.

Also Read: IPL 2025: Suryakumar Yadav shares what MS Dhoni said to Dube

Most Man of the Match awards in IPL history

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has witnessed several players delivering remarkable performances throughout the years, with the "Man of the Match" awards serving as a testament to their brilliance. AB de Villiers leads the chart with 25 awards, a true reflection of his exceptional all-round performances. Following him closely are Chris Gayle (22 awards) and Rohit Sharma (19 awards), whose explosive batting and leadership have earned them numerous accolades. Other legends like David Warner, MS Dhoni, and Virat Kohli each have 18 awards, showcasing their consistent impact in critical moments, while Shane Watson, Yusuf Pathan, and Sunil Narine have 16 awards each, solidifying their status as match-winners.

Players like KL Rahul, Andre Russell, and Ravindra Jadeja, all with 15 awards, highlight the versatility and skill across different roles in the IPL. KL Rahul's consistency with the bat, Russell's all-round dominance, and Jadeja's invaluable contributions with both bat and ball are reflected in their recognition. The ability to influence matches in various phases of play is what has earned them these prestigious honors. Collectively, this list represents the crème de la crème of IPL performers, each contributing immensely to the tournament's rich legacy.

West Indies cricket legend Chris Gayle has shown support for Indian batting stars Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, backing them to continue playing in Tests during India's upcoming tour of England. Gayle believes that as long as these two icons are part of the game, it is beneficial for world cricket. The Universe Boss emphasized that despite criticism over their recent struggles, especially in Test matches, both Kohli and Sharma still have much to offer.

Gayle told ANI that both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma still had a lot of cricket left in them and urged people not to push them out of the game. He emphasized that the cricketing world needed them and that it was great to have them around as they brought immense value to international cricket.

Also Read: Spin vs Pace: What’s dominating in IPL 2025?

“These guys still have a lot of cricket left in them. Don’t push them out. The cricketing world needs them. It’s great to have them around. They bring immense value to international cricket,” Gayle told to ANI, speaking at the launch of the second season of the Pro Cricket League, where he will represent Ghaziabad Bhawani Tigers.

#WATCH | Ghaziabad, UP | Former West Indies Cricketer Chris Gayle says, "Without a doubt, Rohit (Sharma) and Virat (Kohli) still have a lot of cricket left in them. Let's not push them out already. The cricketing world needs those guys for as long as possible. It's good to have… pic.twitter.com/5BZtLaIdVc

— ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2025

Rohit and Virat's form is under scrutiny ahead of India's 2025-27 World Test Championship cycle

India's upcoming five-match Test series against England, which starts on June 20, marks the beginning of their 2025-27 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. However, concerns over the form of Rohit and Virat loom large for India. Both veterans have faced significant criticism for their underperformance in recent Test series, including India’s first-ever home whitewash last year against New Zealand and their absence from this year’s WTC final.

In the 2024-25 season, Rohit managed only 164 runs in eight matches at an average of 10.93, while the former India skipper has accumulated just 382 runs in 10 matches at a disappointing average of 22.87. Since 2020, Kohli's Test form has struggled, averaging just 30.72 in 39 Tests, with only three centuries and nine fifties.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has evolved into a spectacular tournament showcasing breathtaking cricket over the years, and batsmen have been producing astonishing knocks time and again. The IPL has seen everything, ranging from power-hitting to graceful stroke play. Without further ado, let’s explore the top five sets of astonishing individual scores IPL has to offer:

Chris Gayle – 175 (66 balls) | RCB vs PWI, 2013*

CGS is not out; for sure, the score by Chris Gayle will last throughout IPL's existence. Hitting 175 runs single-handedly for Royal Challengers Bangalore with an exceptional strike rate of 265.15 earned Gayle a T20 record, which he still holds to this date, thanks to his jaw-dropping 17 sixes and 13 fours. Unleashing complete havoc on Pune Warriors India in Bengaluru will never be forgotten, nor will the chant “Gayle hit sixes” resonate throughout every IPL out there with 3-s reaching an unmatched feat.

Brendon McCullum – 158 (73 balls) | KKR vs RCB, 2008*

Also read: Top 5 fastest centuries while chasing in history of IPL

Setting the tone for the IPL, superstar player Brendon McCullom scored 158 not out for Kolkata Knight Riders against RCB in Bengaluru within the first 20-odd matches of the IPL in 2008, setting the tone for franchise blasting cholesterol-heavy Super Bowl. 10 fours along with 13 sixes sent Chinnaswamy Stadium into a joyful height unlike anything during his innings.

Abhishek Sharma—141 (55 balls) | SRH vs PBKS, 2025

In one of the most stunning performances to date, Abhishek Sharma scored a stellar 141 runs off just 55 balls against Punjab Kings for Sunrisers Hyderabad in Hyderabad. The young southpaw bludgeoned 14 fours and 10 sixes, boasting an unparalleled 256.36 strike rate. His innings stands as the highest score made by an Indian in the IPL.

Quinton de Kock – 140 (70 balls ) | LSG vs KKR, 2022*

Quinton De Kock’s unbeaten score of 140 came in a crucial match for Lucknow Super Giants facing KKR at D Y Patil Stadium in 2022. With 10 fours and 10 sixes, he became a part of a record partnership with KL Rahul and helped shape one of the most dominating innings ever seen in the league.

Also read: LSG VS CSK : Match 30 Weather and Pitch Report – IPL 2025

AB de Villiers—133 (59 balls) | RCB vs MI, 2015*

Mr. 360 degrees, AB De Villiers, put on a masterclass in 2015 against the Mumbai Indians at Wankhede, where he scored an unbeaten 133 off 59 balls. Attributed with 19 fours and 4 sixes, his innings was one of the most entertaining knocks in IPL history.

On April 9, 2025, a sweet moment from a recent IPL interview, where Virat Kohli was seen in a lighthearted and humorous frame of mind. The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) sensation was seen looking back at his first-ever IPL Man of the Match (MOTM) interview in 2011, a clip that left him in splits. Seated in a warm café environment, Kohli, wearing his RCB jersey, couldn't help but laugh as he listened to his younger self talk with unguarded confidence, giving fans a peek at his journey and unwavering sense of humor.

Also Read: Kohli Removes Paid Promotions from Instagram Timeline, Fans Notice the Change

In the 14-year-old interview, 20-year-old Kohli looked back at a match-winning 38-ball 56 against Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) that gave him his first MOTM award. While playing the game, he had put on an 82-run stand with Chris Gayle, one of cricket's most destructive batsmen. 

With a boyish swagger, Kohli had bragged that he was playing the aggressor in that stand, a notion that left him doubled up in laughter in 2025. "Ghalat fehmi dekh lo," Kohli laughed, poking fun at his younger self's outlandish claim. As we said, it reminded him of his earlier days in the IPL and in many ways gave a context for how far he has come, to the point that he could still laugh at himself.

Kohli reacting to his first IPL MOTM interview where he talked about being the aggressor while playing with Chris Gayle.
had a good laugh, made fun of himself watching that 14-yr-old interview.
This guy is the funniest of all, man. 😭😭pic.twitter.com/0EOjQf39Ch

— K. (@Lifefkdup) April 9, 2025

Kohli’s Timeless Charm Shines Through

At 36 years old, Kohli is still relevant in the cricket arena and an integral part of RCB's dominant IPL 2025 season , scoring 164 runs in four games, including two fifties. But it's moments like these, where he shares about his journey with humility and humor, that speak to his timeless charm.

Also Read: IPL 2025: Why do cameramen always focus on girls?

This video not only celebrates his change from a hot-headed kid to an experienced leader but also demonstrates the ability to be relatable, often in a state of unreason, which is why he captivates audiences worldwide. What’s your favorite memory of Kohli's earlier days in the IPL?

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has long been a stage where raw talent is polished into brilliance, offering players the chance to shine under the spotlight. It has consistently unearthed exceptional cricketers, underlining the league's immense impact on the sport. Whether it’s a bowler or a batter, every emerging player aims to make a mark, hoping to fulfill the dream of representing their country at the international level.

Over the years, the IPL has given rise to some of the finest batters the game has seen. Their talent, skill, and ability to perform under pressure have not only elevated the league’s standard but also captured the imagination of cricket fans worldwide. With their creative strokes and distinct playing styles, these batters have significantly influenced the modern game. In this article, we take a look at the top 5 fastest century-makers in IPL history—players who turned the game on its head with their explosive performances.

Read More: Who is Priyansh Arya, fastest uncapped Indian to score IPL century

5. Priyansh Arya

The young and dynamic batter from Punjab Kings delivered a stunning 39-ball century against Chennai Super Kings, standing firm against a challenging bowling attack. In his explosive knock, Priyansh hit 7 fours and an impressive 9 massive sixes. After a few quiet outings earlier in the tournament, the pressure was mounting on him to perform — and he responded in style. This powerful inning was well worth the wait, as he took on seasoned spinners and handled the pacers with confidence, proving that he’s ready for the big stage. His performance has instilled hope and shown that he can be a dependable batter for the team.

4. Travis Head

Australian opener Travis Head is renowned for his explosive batting style, often clearing the boundary with ease. In a memorable match last year against Royal Challengers Bangalore at the Chinnaswamy Stadium, he delivered one of his most destructive performances. After Sunrisers Hyderabad won the toss and opted to bat first, Head unleashed a brutal assault on the RCB bowlers, sending the ball to all parts of the ground. His powerful knock included 9 fours and 8 sixes, culminating in a blistering 39-ball century that left RCB reeling and completely shifted the momentum in SRH’s favour.

3. David Miller

South African left-handed batter David Miller is widely known for his explosive and game-changing batting. In a 2013 clash between Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore, RCB posted a challenging total of 190 while batting first. Punjab’s chase seemed shaky after losing a few early wickets, but Miller turned the tide with his fearless stroke play. While others struggled to time the ball, Miller dominated the bowling attack with ease. He took control of the chase and powered his way to victory with 8 boundaries and 7 towering sixes, finishing the match in style that once appeared out of reach for Punjab.

2. Yusuf Pathan

Yusuf Pathan, known for his explosive right-handed batting, played a memorable knock for the Rajasthan Royals in 2010 during a high-scoring encounter against the Mumbai Indians. MI had set a formidable target of 212 runs, thanks to strong performances from their top-order batters. Rajasthan’s chase started on a shaky note, losing early wickets and finding themselves in a tough spot. However, Yusuf Pathan turned the game on its head with a blistering counterattack. He launched into the MI bowlers with fearless hitting, smashing 8 sixes and 9 boundaries on his way to a 37-ball century. Although Rajasthan Royals narrowly lost the match by just 4 runs, Pathan’s explosive innings remain one of the standout performances in IPL history.

1. Chris Gayle

West Indies powerhouse Chris Gayle delivered one of the most iconic innings in IPL history during a match between Royal Challengers Bangalore and Pune Warriors India. After winning the toss, Bangalore opted to bat first, and what followed was pure carnage. Gayle unleashed a brutal assault on the opposition bowlers, scoring an unbeaten 175 runs — a record that still stands today. His innings included a staggering 17 sixes and 13 fours, leaving the Pune bowlers with no answers. It remains one of the most unforgettable knocks in T20 cricket.