Cricket is often described as a game of beautiful uncertainties, and nothing captures it better than a run-out. In the Indian Premier League (IPL), where every ball counts, a run-out can completely change the outcome of a match. When partnerships are being built and bowlers are looking ineffective, a quick run-out can disrupt the batting momentum and turn the game on its head.
A run-out in cricket is a true reflection of fielding talent, awareness and teamwork. Players like MS Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja and AB de Villiers have truly made a name for themselves with the bat or the ball. But that’s not all, as they are also known for their ability to create run-outs that turn the game around.
Let’s take a look at who are the players who have given the most run-outs in IPL history (2008-2025) and what was their impact and the strategy behind it.
Player | Matches | Catches | Run Outs | Stumping | Dismissals | Dismissals per Match (DpM) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
MS Dhoni | 263 | 152 | 24 | 42 | 218 | 0.83 |
Ravindra Jadeja | 239 | 103 | 23 | – | 126 | 0.53 |
Virat Kohli | 252 | 114 | 22 | – | 136 | 0.54 |
Suresh Raina | 204 | 109 | 16 | – | 125 | 0.61 |
Manish Pandey | 171 | 83 | 16 | – | 99 | 0.58 |
Dinesh Karthik | 257 | 145 | 15 | 37 | 197 | 0.77 |
Dwayne Bravo | 160 | 80 | 14 | – | 94 | 0.59 |
AB de Villiers | 184 | 118 | 14 | 8 | 140 | 0.76 |
Ambati Rayudu | 204 | 64 | 12 | 2 | 78 | 0.38 |
Parthiv Patel | 139 | 69 | 11 | 16 | 96 | 0.69 |
Captain Cool has long been considered one of the brightest minds in the cricketing world, why? It is because of his wicketkeeping skills that India and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have been able to win many matches. In 263 IPL matches, Dhoni has given 24 run-outs, which shows his high reaction and game awareness.
His quick and accurate underarm throw has often surprised batsmen. Dhoni’s ability to remain calm even under heavy pressure has allowed him to turn potential singles into key outs. With a dismissals per match (DpM) rate of 0.83, Dhoni has become a master of accuracy and timing.
Sir Jadeja is undoubtedly one of India’s best fielders. Whether diving at point or hitting the stumps from mid-off, Jadeja’s athleticism is second to none. In 239 IPL games, he has contributed to 23 run-outs, many of which have come from direct hits.
His presence on the field is enough to strike fear into batsmen. Known for his bullet-arm throws and quick reactions, Jadeja’s talent has saved countless runs. His DpM rate of 0.53 shows his consistency and reliability in essential situations.
Former RCB captain Virat Kohli brings an intensity to the field that is unmatched. His fitness, pace and accuracy make him one of the best fielders in modern cricket. Kohli’s 22 run-outs in 252 matches show his promise to remain in the list of best fielders.
Often deployed at cover or mid-off, Kohli’s quick pick-ups and throws have left many batsmen in shock in the middle of the match. Besides the numbers, his energy enhances the fielding performance of the entire team. This is clearly an essential factor behind Royal Challengers Bangalore’s competitive spirit in the IPL.
Run-outs are not just statistics on the scorecard, they are game-changers. Here’s how they affect T20 matches:
A well-timed run-out can break dangerous partnerships and change momentum in an instant. Teams often lose wickets in clusters after important run-outs.
A brilliant run-out energizes the fielding side and puts mental pressure on the batting team. It often leads to poor shot selection.
In T20 cricket, partnerships are crucial. Run-outs break the rhythm and can slow down the scoring in the middle overs.
Once a teammate is run-out, the remaining batsmen play with more caution, sometimes disrupting the scoring flow.
Discipline and understanding can prevent run-outs. Here are six strategies that can help:
From Dhoni’s coolness to Jadeja’s quick hands and AB de Villiers’ athleticism, run-outs have been one of the most thrilling moments in IPL history. These fielders not only saved runs but also changed the match with their alertness and agility.
As the IPL has evolved, one thing has remained constant and that is, a single run-out can decide the fate of a game. This is a great example of how teamwork, timing and mental presence can overcome brute force in cricket.
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The record for the most run-outs in IPL history is held by MS Dhoni with 24 dismissals, followed by Ravindra Jadeja with 23 and Virat Kohli with 22 dismissals.
Run-outs often change the momentum of the game. They can break key partnerships and create panic in the batting lineup.
Teams like CSK and RCB have consistently had top fielders like Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja and of course, Virat Kohli.
How did MS Dhoni train for a run-out against Kings XI Punjab in IPL 2019?
Modern cricketers undergo specific fielding drills while focusing on pace, throw accuracy and awareness.