The Indian Premier League (IPL) has seen some of the finest cricketers light up the tournament with stunning performances over the years. But not everyone has had the fortune of winning the title. This article focuses on the Most IPL Matches Without Lifting the Trophy, featuring legendary players who contributed immensely to their teams but couldn’t clinch the elusive trophy for most of their careers. These are the heroes who defined loyalty, skill, and resilience. Let’s explore the top 5 such players, ranked from 5 to 1.
List of Top 5 Most IPL Matches Without Lifting the Trophy
5. Ajinkya Rahane – IPL Champion After Years of Waiting
Ajinkya Rahane is known for his classy batting technique and calm temperament. Over the years, he represented several franchises including Rajasthan Royals, Delhi Capitals, Kolkata Knight Riders, and eventually Chennai Super Kings. For the majority of his IPL career, Rahane played selflessly without the ultimate reward. However, in 2023, his patience paid off when he finally lifted the IPL trophy with Chennai Super Kings. Until then, Rahane was part of the list of players with the Most IPL Matches Without Lifting the Trophy.
He has played crucial roles as an opener and middle-order batter, often anchoring the innings or finishing tight games. His ability to adapt to different conditions and his solid technique made him a consistent performer in the league.
| Matches | IPL Title Win | Debut Year | Role |
| 172 | 1 (2023 – CSK) | 2008 | Batter |
4. Yuzvendra Chahal – Master of Spin but No Title Yet
Yuzvendra Chahal has been one of the most successful spinners in IPL history, admired for his clever variations and fearless approach against big hitters. Playing for Royal Challengers Bangalore for most of his career and then Rajasthan Royals, Chahal has been the go-to bowler in the middle overs. Despite his individual brilliance and consistency, he has never won the IPL title.
He is a classic example of a player on the list of Most IPL Matches Without Lifting the Trophy, showcasing that even great personal success doesn’t always guarantee team titles. Chahal remains a game-changer and continues to be a vital part of his team’s bowling unit.
| Matches | IPL Title Win | Debut Year | Role |
| 174 | 0 | 2013 | Bowler |
3. Sanju Samson – The Loyal Warrior of Rajasthan Royals
Sanju Samson is one of the most elegant and explosive batters in the IPL, known for his effortless strokeplay and aggressive captaincy. He has been the face of Rajasthan Royals for years and continues to lead the side with pride and passion. Despite coming close, Samson is yet to lift the IPL trophy, making him one of the leading names on the Most IPL Matches Without Lifting the Trophy list.
With over 170 matches under his belt, Samson has matured into a complete T20 player. His ability to play attacking cricket and take responsibility as captain makes him one of the most respected players in the tournament today.
| Matches | IPL Title Win | Debut Year | Role |
| 177 | 0 | 2013 | Batter / Captain |
2. AB de Villiers – A Legend Without the IPL Trophy
AB de Villiers is one of the most iconic players in the history of the IPL. Famous for his 360-degree hitting ability and his ability to turn games single-handedly, he played most of his IPL career for Royal Challengers Bangalore. Fans adored him for his fearless style and magical moments at the crease. However, despite being such a dominant force, AB never managed to win the title, making him a key name on the list of Most IPL Matches Without Lifting the Trophy.
His partnership with Virat Kohli created some of the most memorable IPL moments, but an IPL championship eluded him. His presence in the IPL is still celebrated by cricket lovers around the world.
| Matches | IPL Title Win | Debut Year | Role |
| 184 | 0 | 2008 | Batter |
1. Virat Kohli – The Long Wait Ended in 2025
Topping the list of Most IPL Matches Without Lifting the Trophy is none other than Virat Kohli until 2025. Kohli, one of the greatest batters of modern cricket, had played over 260 matches for Royal Challengers Bangalore without winning a single title. His commitment to one franchise, despite the lack of silverware, earned him massive respect.
Finally, in 2025, Kohli’s dream came true as RCB lifted the IPL trophy for the first time. The long wait was over, and his loyalty and perseverance were rewarded. His journey perfectly fits the theme of Most IPL Matches Without Lifting the Trophy, as he turned years of disappointment into a powerful story of redemption.
| Matches | IPL Title Win | Debut Year | Role |
| 267 | 1 (2025 – RCB) | 2008 | Batter |
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