Naming an all-time IPL XI is always a tough task. Since the Indian Premier League started in 2008, the tournament has showcased world-class batters, fearless all-rounders, and game-changing bowlers. Every season has produced new stars, while established legends have kept adding to their records. When West Indies great Chris Gayle recently revealed his all-time IPL XI on Shubankar Mishra’s podcast, it immediately sparked debate.
His team had some of the biggest names the league has ever seen, but one decision stood out: Rohit Sharma’s omission. Rohit is the second-highest run-scorer in IPL history with over 7000 runs and is also the captain with the most titles (five). Yet, Chris Gayle didn’t name him in his dream XI.
Chris Gayle picks his all-time IPL XI
Chris Gayle, widely known as the “Universe Boss,” picked himself as one of the openers. Very few would argue against his inclusion. Gayle has been one of the most destructive batters in IPL history. It is worth noting that his record-breaking 175 not out for Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2013 still stands as the highest individual score in the league. He scored 4,900 runs at a strike rate above 148.
Chris Gayle names explosive opening pair
Gayle paired himself with Virat Kohli. The former RCB captain is the all-time leading run-scorer in the IPL. He scored 8,661 runs, including 8 centuries and 63 fifties. Kohli has delivered across different seasons and made a name for himself as the most consistent player. We have seen him anchoring long innings while maintaining a quick scoring rate. Together, Gayle and Kohli formed a dream opening duo for RCB back then.
Rock-solid middle order
In the middle order, Gayle went with players who have defined the IPL era. Suresh Raina, known as “Mr. IPL,” earned his spot with 5,528 runs. His contributions for Chennai Super Kings were massive, especially in pressure games. Raina’s ability to steady the innings and play with flair made him one of the most reliable batters of his time.
Next comes AB de Villiers. He is a player who changed the way T20 cricket is played. He scored 5,162 runs and became a fan favourite for his fearless batting. Bowlers struggled against his 360-degree hitting, which included scoops, reverse sweeps, and towering sixes. His presence in the lineup brings unmatched versatility.
Gayle also picked KL Rahul for his consistency in recent years. Rahul has more than 5,200 runs at an impressive average. The Bengaluru-born can adapt to any situation. Bee it building an innings when required or shifting gears to accelerate.
All-rounders for balance
Balance is vital in T20 cricket. Gayle ensured it by including three multi-dimensional all-rounders. They are none other than Ravindra Jadeja, Dwayne Bravo, and Sunil Narine.
Jadeja has scored over 3,200 runs and taken 170 wickets in the IPL. He is known for his left-arm spin, sharp fielding, and powerful lower-order hitting. All these traits make him a complete package. Bravo took 183 wickets to his name. Notably, he is among the finest death bowlers the league has seen. Besides that, he also scored key runs in crunch situations. Narine brought mystery with the ball and provided occasional fireworks as a pinch-hitter.
Fearsome bowling attack
Chris Gayle went with Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar for the pace attack. Bumrah is considered one of the best T20 bowlers in the world. He is best known for his deadly yorkers and being calm under pressure. Overall, he has accounted for 183 dismissals.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar has bagged 198 wickets to his name in the IPL. He is dubbed as the master of swing bowling. He has often picked up early breakthroughs and controlled the run flow in the power play.
