The Indian Premier League (IPL) stands as the world’s largest and most popular cricket league. Since its inception in 2008, the IPL has garnered a massive following worldwide, and it’s second only to the NFL in terms of broadcasting deals. With a brand value of USD 10.7 billion, the league comprises 10 franchise teams, each boasting a strong global fanbase. Two teams, in particular, have dominated both in terms of trophies and followers—Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Here’s a detailed look at these fan-favourite teams and how they stack up in terms of popularity and success.
Most Popular Teams in IPL History
(Social Media Following as of 2023)
| Team | Titles | X (Twitter) | YouTube | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mumbai Indians | 5 | 14M | 8.2M | 13.2M | 4.24M |
| Chennai Super Kings | 5 | 13M | 10.1M | 13M | 3.16M |
| Royal Challengers Bangalore | 0 | 10M | 6.9M | 11.6M | 3.78M |
| Kolkata Knight Riders | 2 | 17M | 5.2M | 4M | 1.5M |
| Punjab Kings | 0 | 8.8M | 3M | 3M | 0.48M |
| Delhi Capitals | 0 | 8.3M | 2.5M | 3.5M | 0.87M |
| Sunrisers Hyderabad | 1 | 6.2M | 3.2M | 3.2M | 0.80M |
| Rajasthan Royals | 1 | 5M | 2.8M | 3.3M | 0.81M |
| Gujarat Titans | 1 | 1.2M | 0.55M | 3.5M | 0.52M |
| Lucknow Super Giants | 0 | 0.77M | 0.77M | 2.9M | 0.11M |
Mumbai Indians: The Most Followed and Successful IPL Team
Mumbai Indians (MI) is the most popular IPL team in history, not just for their fan following but also for their unmatched success. Owned by Reliance Industries, MI has won five IPL titles, tied with CSK for the most championships. Their fanbase, which includes over 40 million followers across social media platforms, remains incredibly loyal.
The team’s early fame was largely due to Indian legend Sachin Tendulkar, who captained MI in the league’s initial seasons. Under Rohit Sharma’s leadership until 2023, MI claimed five trophies, and in 2024, Hardik Pandya took over as captain. MI’s brand value soared to USD 87 million in 2023, making it the most valuable IPL franchise. Over the years, MI has featured international stars like Ricky Ponting, Lasith Malinga, and Sanath Jayasuriya, and homegrown talents like Jasprit Bumrah and Suryakumar Yadav.
Chennai Super Kings: The Most Loved IPL Team
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) shares the record for the most IPL titles with Mumbai Indians, having also won five championships—all under the iconic leadership of Mahendra Singh Dhoni. Known for their massive and passionate fanbase, CSK has around 40 million followers on social media, with the highest number of X (formerly Twitter) followers among all teams.
CSK is renowned for their consistency, having reached the playoffs 12 times in their 14 seasons. Their loyal fans affectionately call Dhoni “Thala,” meaning leader in Tamil. Despite Dhoni’s retirement from international cricket in 2019, he continues to lead CSK, steering them to the 2022 IPL title as well. The team’s 2023 brand value of USD 80.6 million places them just behind MI.
Royal Challengers Bangalore: The Most Famous Team Without a Trophy
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) is one of the most well-known IPL teams despite never winning the title. Much of their fame stems from star players like Virat Kohli, who is among the most followed athletes globally. The Bangalore-based franchise, led by Faf du Plessis in 2023, enjoys a significant social media following, ranking third in terms of brand value at USD 69.8 million. RCB has boasted a roster of international superstars including AB de Villiers, Chris Gayle, and Dale Steyn, making them one of the most loved yet unfortunate teams in IPL history.
Kolkata Knight Riders: Bollywood-Backed and Beloved
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), co-owned by Bollywood superstars Shah Rukh Khan, Juhi Chawla, and Jay Mehta, is another franchise with a huge following. KKR’s journey began with a bang when Brendon McCullum smashed an unbeaten 158 in the first IPL match, capturing fans’ hearts instantly. Although they haven’t won the title since 2014, KKR remains popular due to its association with Bollywood, its iconic Eden Gardens home ground, and its catchy theme song, “Korbo Lorbo Jeetbo.”
KKR’s ownership has expanded globally with investments in teams like Trinbago Knight Riders (CPL) and Los Angeles Knight Riders (MLC), further boosting their brand value to USD 78.6 million in 2023.
Punjab Kings: A Fan Favorite Despite No Titles
Formerly known as Kings XI Punjab, Punjab Kings (PBKS) remains a beloved franchise, even without an IPL title. Co-owned by Bollywood actress Preity Zinta and other stakeholders, PBKS has a substantial social media following. While the team’s performance has fluctuated, their loyal fanbase has kept them relevant, and their brand value remains significant.