IPL 2018: Analysis of best skippers over the years
The Indian Premier League has produced some great leaders over 10 years that have led their teams to glory. Certain franchises have played breathtaking cricket in the last decade and a lot of credit should be given to their captains for getting the players to deliver their best performances. Here we look at some of the best IPL skippers from the past 10 seasons.
CSK's MS Dhoni is the best of the lot
MS Dhoni's led Chennai Super Kings have not only won titles, but they are one of the most consistent sides in IPL. They have featured in eight seasons but got suspended for the last two campaigns. Dhoni has been mighty in bringing CSK to the fore and seeing them reach six finals. He helped them win the title in 2010 and 2011.
Dhoni's calmness a big strength of character
Dhoni has been one of the most sublime skippers in the world and his presence of mind is a wonderful gift. Always calm, the skipper has earned the title 'Captain Cool'. His ability to read the game and contribute immensely on the field is massive.
Rohit Sharma a massive strength for Mumbai Indians
Rohit joined the Mumbai Indians in 2011 and has been a striking force. As a player he has been a part of four title winning sides, a feat very few have achieved. He has helped MI win two titles under his leadership in 2015 and 2017 respectively. The stylish batsman also captained some matches in the 2013 edition when MI won their maiden title.
Rohit has handled MI very well
After being tested massively in 2015 where his side lost five out of the first six games, he instilled never say die attitude in the team as they stunned everybody to win the title. Last season Mumbai held their nerves in a crunch finale.
Gautam Gambhir and KKR a match made in heaven
Gambhir brought two vital attributes when he joined KKR in 2011. Firstly, it was a new belief. Secondly, the consistency factor. In his seven-year stay at the club, he got them to five play-offs besides winning the title twice in 2012 and 2014. A skipper of great quality, Gambhir's aggression instilled confidence to do well. The Knights were brilliant to watch under his captaincy.
Gambhir took KKR to new heights
Finishing in the top four became a habit of this KKR side. Gambhir always said, that a captain is as good as his team and he stayed true to this belief. He rarely smiled, but he always stayed alert and demanded 100% from players.
