New Delhi: Former Australian cricketer and renowned coach Tom Moody has weighed in on one of the most debated topics in Indian Premier League (IPL) history—Who is the greatest IPL captain of all time? According to Moody, the answer is clear: MS Dhoni stands alone at the top.
Despite both Dhoni and Rohit Sharma having five IPL titles each as captains, Moody believes the Chennai Super Kings legend edges past the Mumbai Indians skipper, owing to his consistency, leadership under pressure, and ability to extract the best out of relatively weaker squads.
“I think MS Dhoni keeps the No. 1 spot,” Moody said, citing Dhoni’s ability to guide teams that haven’t always been the most stacked on paper to championship glory.
Dhoni, who stepped down from captaincy before the 2024 season, was forced to reclaim the reins midway through the 2025 campaign when new captain Ruturaj Gaikwad suffered an elbow injury. However, the season proved to be a rare low for CSK, who finished last in the points table for the first time in their history, managing just four wins in 14 games.
Dhoni also faced criticism for not promoting himself up the order, as CSK’s batting woes deepened. The 43-year-old veteran managed only 196 runs in 14 innings, appearing a shadow of the match-winner he once was. Despite his iconic presence, not even Dhoni’s strategic mind could revive the team’s fortunes this year.
When blind-ranking IPL captains during a recent discussion, Moody placed Virat Kohli second. The former RCB captain, while never having won a title, led his team to a final in 2016 and playoff appearances in 2015, 2016, 2020, and 2021.
Moody’s third spot went to Gautam Gambhir, who captained Kolkata Knight Riders to two IPL titles in 2012 and 2014, transforming the franchise with his aggressive leadership style.
Interestingly, Shreyas Iyer was ranked fourth. Iyer, currently with Punjab Kings, led KKR to their third title in 2024 before switching teams this season. Pat Cummins, the current Sunrisers Hyderabad captain, was placed sixth by Moody, showing the Australian’s growing reputation as a leader in the shortest format.
While the debate between Dhoni and Rohit continues to split fans, Tom Moody’s verdict puts Dhoni a step above the rest—not just for the trophies, but for the legacy he has carved as captain cool of the IPL.
