Despite featuring in the Top 10 highest run-scorers in IPL history, these legendary players have never won the orange cap even after 18 editions of the tournament.IPL Trophy. (BCCI/IPL photo)Despite featuring in the Top 10 highest run-scorers in IPL history, these legendary players have never won the orange cap even after 18 editions of the tournament.IPL Trophy. (BCCI/IPL photo)Despite featuring in the Top 10 highest run-scorers in IPL history, these legendary players have never won the orange cap even after 18 editions of the tournament. As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 approaches its blockbuster 19th edition on March 28, the tournament once again promises high-octane cricket, massive runs and individual brilliance. In a batting-dominated era where the season’s top run-scorer leads to the prestigious Orange Cap, it is shocking that some of the IPL’s greatest run-scorers have never won the award.Despite featuring in the Top 10 highest run-scorers in IPL history, these legendary players have never won the orange cap even after 18 editions of the tournament.
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1. Rohit Sharma: One of the biggest names in IPL history, Rohit Sharma is also one of the most successful captains and has led Mumbai Indians to five titles (2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2020). Known for his classy batting, Rohit ranks second among the highest run-scorers in IPL history with 7,046 runs in 272 matches. Rohit Sharma’s best IPL season with the bat was probably in 2013 when he scored 538 runs and led Mumbai Indians (MI) to their first title. Despite his influence, he never won an orange cap. 2. Shikhar Dhawan: Dhawan is ranked 3rd in the all-time list having amassed 6769 runs in 222 matches. He came close to winning the Orange Cap in 2020 and 2021, where he was among the top contenders, but narrowly missed out. Representing Sunrisers Hyderabad, Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings, Dhawan has put in some memorable performances but never reached the pinnacle of the season.3. Suresh Raina: Suresh Raina Often called ‘Mr. IPL’ has been the backbone of Chennai Super Kings batting line-up. He has scored 5,528 runs in 205 matches and is ranked 5th in the all-time runs chart. His best season came in 2013 (548 runs) but even then he fell short of the Orange Cap, a stunning fact given his dominance during the early years of the IPL.4. AB de Villiers: One of the most devastating batsmen in the history of IPL, AB de Villiers has thrilled the fans with his innovative stroke play. He ended his IPL career with 5,162 runs in 184 matches, currently sitting at the 8th position, with his best season coming in 2016 (687 runs, 3rd). Batting mostly in the middle order often reduced his chances of amassing a season-high and kept the Orange Cap just out of reach.5. Ajinkya Rahane: Ajinkya Rahane, who is currently ranked 9th in the run total, has been a reliable starter in the IPL, scoring 5,032 runs in 183 matches. His standout season came in 2012 (560 runs for Rajasthan Royals), yet he never finished as the top scorer in any edition. Despite his classic style and consistency, the Orange Cap eluded him.
Honorable Mention: MS Dhoni
MS Dhoni, one of the most iconic players in IPL history, has also never won the Orange Cap. The Chennai Super Kings legend led his team to five titles (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, 2023) and scored 5,439 runs in 278 matches. Dhoni’s best seasons of 2018 (455 runs) and 2019 (416 runs), known more for his finishing role than amassing big seasonal scores, were still not enough to secure the award, mainly because his role as a finisher limited his scoring opportunities throughout the season.
Top 10 best run scorers in IPL history
Number of runsOrange CapVirat Kohli8661 runs 2016, 2024 runs Rohit Sharma7046 runs Shikhar Dhawan6769 runs-David Warner 6565 runs 2015, 2017, 2019 Suresh Raina5528 runs-MS Dhoni502 22 runs Rahu22 2 KL runs 20KL Villiers5162 runs-Ajinkya Rahane5032 runs-Chris Gayle4965 runs2011, 2012
