Top 5 Players with the Most Runs in IPL Playoffs
The Indian Premier League (IPL) is known for its thrilling finishes and blockbuster matches, but it’s during the Playoffs that legends are truly born. When the stakes are highest, only the most dependable and pressure-proof players shine. With IPL 2025 Playoffs set to kick off on Thursday, it’s the perfect time to look back at the top 5 run scorers in IPL Playoffs history.
Here’s a detailed look at the elite list of batters who have performed exceptionally well in the business end of the tournament.
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1. Suresh Raina – 714 Runs in 24 Matches
The undisputed “Mr. IPL”, Suresh Raina, holds the record for the most runs in IPL Playoffs with a staggering 714 runs in 24 playoff appearances.
➤ Teams: Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Gujarat Lions (GL)
➤ Average: ~37.57 | Strike Rate: 155+ (approx.)
Raina’s ability to anchor the innings or accelerate when needed made him a cornerstone of CSK’s success over the years. Whether it was the explosive 87 off 25 balls in Qualifier 2 of 2014 or countless cameos under pressure, Raina has consistently delivered when it mattered most. His calm demeanor under pressure, clean striking, and understanding of match situations made him a playoff phenomenon.
2. MS Dhoni – 523 Runs in 28 Matches
Known more for his finishing and leadership, MS Dhoni has also quietly amassed 523 playoff runs, placing him second on the list.
➤ Teams: Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Rising Pune Supergiant (RPSG)
➤ Average: ~34.86 | Strike Rate: ~135
“Captain Cool” has guided CSK to record 10 finals appearances. While Dhoni rarely opens or bats early, his consistent cameos at the death, especially in crunch moments, have been invaluable. A notable playoff moment was his 40(20)* against MI in the 2013 Qualifier, turning the match on its head. His maturity and ability to read pressure situations define his contribution beyond just numbers.
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3. Shubman Gill – 474 Runs in 10 Matches
The new-gen superstar, Shubman Gill, has already left a huge mark in playoff matches with 474 runs in just 10 innings—a phenomenal average of nearly 47.4.
➤ Teams: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Gujarat Titans (GT)
➤ Average: 47.4 | Strike Rate: 145+
Gill played a major role in GT’s success since their IPL 2022 debut. His explosive century in IPL 2023 Qualifier 2 against MI was one of the finest playoff knocks of all time—129 off 60 balls! With such form and temperament, he is a strong contender to become the all-time top scorer in IPL playoffs in the coming years.
4. Faf du Plessis – 390 Runs in 15 Matches
Faf du Plessis has been a quiet playoff performer, often setting the tone at the top of the order. With 390 runs in 15 games, he is fourth on the all-time playoff scorers list.
➤ Teams: Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)
➤ Average: 32.5 | Strike Rate: 130+
Faf’s most iconic playoff innings came during the IPL 2021 Qualifier, where his 86 off 59 balls guided CSK to another final. His temperament and ability to adapt his game according to conditions make him a valuable asset in do-or-die matches. Now leading RCB, he continues to be a playoff stalwart.
5. Shane Watson – 389 Runs in 12 Matches
Australian all-rounder Shane Watson was born for big matches, as reflected in his 389 runs in just 12 playoff matches, earning him fifth place on this elite list.
➤ Teams: Rajasthan Royals (RR), Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)
➤ Average: ~38.9 | Strike Rate: 150+
Watson’s playoff legacy was cemented with his heroic 117 in the IPL 2018 Final* for CSK, single-handedly dismantling SRH to win the title. His brute power, fearless intent, and experience under pressure made him one of the most dangerous players in knockout games.
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Dominance of CSK in Playoff Batting Charts
Interestingly, 4 of the 5 players on this list have played for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at some point in their careers. This isn’t just a coincidence. It’s a testament to CSK’s playoff consistency, having reached the playoffs 12 times in 16 seasons. With MS Dhoni’s leadership and match-winners like Raina, Faf, and Watson, CSK has produced many iconic playoff moments.
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Rising Stars: Who Could Break into the Top 5?
As the IPL 2025 Playoffs begin, a few names to watch out for who could break into this top 5 soon:
• Virat Kohli (RCB) – Just outside the top 5 with ~360 playoff runs; can easily move up with a big knock.
• Ruturaj Gaikwad (CSK) – Rapidly growing as a dependable CSK batter in crucial matches.
• Suryakumar Yadav (MI) – With MI once again in playoffs, he could climb higher on this chart.
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Conclusion: Legends Rise in the Playoffs
Scoring runs in the IPL league stage is commendable, but doing it in the playoffs, under intense pressure, is what separates the greats from the legends. From Raina’s consistent brilliance to Gill’s explosive rise, the IPL playoffs have showcased the best of T20 batting.
As Punjab Kings take on RCB in Qualifier 1 and Gujarat Titans face Mumbai Indians in the Eliminator, eyes will be on today’s stars to step up and etch their names into IPL folklore. Will someone from this generation break Raina’s record? Only time will tell.
