When it comes to IPL legends, three names come to mind. and are individuals who have been around since the 1st edition was played in 2008. Fast forward to 2026, they have achieved feats at a different level in IPL history. In fact, at the moment, the three of them share an important record in the tournament.
The Shared IPL Record
The record for most IPL appearances is 278 games. As of now, Dhoni, Rohit and Kohli have all played exactly that number of matches. So, all three of them share the record of most IPL outings. Rohit holds the record for most seasons as a capped player while Kohli has played the most games and seasons for one franchise. Dhoni, who is yet to play in IPL 2026 has played 17 seasons as a capped player and one as an uncapped. Kohli has played 18 as a capped player an one uncapped. Rohit has played all 19 seasons as a capped player.
Will MS Dhoni Play?
Dhoni came into IPL 2026 with 278 matches and has not played even one of CSK’s 11 appearances. CSK have three games left in the season and maybe some more, depending on where they finish on the table. It remains to be seen when and if Dhoni does play and adds to his tally of matches.
Rohit Sharma’s Injury Woes
Rohit missed five out of 11 MI matches due to a hamstring injury. So his tally jumped from 272 to 278 in IPL 2026. Unfortunately, he can play only three more matches at the most in this season as MI are out of the Playoffs race.
Virat Kohli’s 100% Attendance
Kohli began IPL 2026 with 267 appearances and played all of RCB’s 11 matches. That’s why he reached 278. He has at least three more games to play and RCB are well-poised to make it to the Playoffs. That means Kohli could play another two to three matches and if Dhoni does not play at all, finish IPL 2026 with the No. 1 spot on the list.
Who Will Be No. 1?
Kohli’s next match is vs KKR on May 13 while Rohit will play PBKS on May 14. CSK take on LSG on May 15 and it is not clear whether Dhoni shall play or not. There are 16 games left in the league phase with eight teams fighting for all four slots as nobody has sealed a place in the top four. Other than MI, LSG are also out of the Playoffs Race. RCB top the table while MI are in 9th place. CSK are in 5th position as they gun for a record 6th title.