Who has the best average in IPL history?


IPL 2023 Winner

When we talk about best batting average in IPL history, we look at players who’ve been consistently scoring runs and not getting out often — a rare combo in T20 cricket.

🥇 Best Batting Average in IPL History (min 500 runs)

🧠 KL Rahul

  • Matches: 120+

  • Runs: 4,000+

  • Average: ~47.00

  • Teams: PBKS, LSG, RCB, SRH

  • Why it's elite:

    • Has multiple 500+ run seasons

    • Scores big, and stays not out often

    • Combines power with control — elite T20 temperament

🥈 David Warner

  • Average: ~42.0

  • Runs: 6,400+

  • Teams: SRH, DC

  • Note: Most consistent overseas batter in IPL history

🥉 Jos Buttler / Faf du Plessis (tie territory)

  • Both average around 38–40

  • Explosive at the top, but a few low scores drag their average below Rahul’s and Warner’s

Special Mention:

🧢 MS Dhoni

  • Average ~39

  • Why it stands out: Finisher role means fewer balls and higher risk — but still averages near 40

  • A master at staying not out and finishing innings

📊 Top 5 (Min 500 runs, approx values):

Rank Player Avg Runs Matches
🥇 KL Rahul 47.0 4,000+ 120+
🥈 David Warner 42.0 6,400+ 170+
🥉 MS Dhoni 39.0 5,100+ 240+
4️⃣ Faf du Plessis ~38 4,000+ 130+
5️⃣ Jos Buttler ~37.5 3,500+ 100+

⚠️ Note:

If you include players with very few innings (like some finishers or backup batters), there might be odd averages above 50 — but they’re not statistically meaningful.

Want this filtered by Indian players, openers only, or finishers only? I can break that down too!