Fielding often decides IPL matches more quietly than big sixes or fast bowling spells. One sharp catch can change momentum, silence a crowd, or tilt a playoff race. As IPL 2026 approaches, catching standards continue to rise, with fitness, anticipation, and reaction time now treated as core skills.
The top 10 players with the most catches in IPL history reflect how modern T20 cricket rewards alert, reliable fielders. Virat Kohli still leads the list, while long-serving names like Suresh Raina and Kieron Pollard remain benchmarks for consistency.
This article breaks down the full top 10 list, explains why these players stand out, and looks at how their fielding shaped team success.
Updated list of the top 10 players with the most catches in IPL
The numbers below include all completed IPL seasons up to 2025 and remain valid heading into IPL 2026.
| Rank | Player | Span | Matches | Innings | Max in match | Catches |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Virat Kohli (RCB) | 2008–2025 | 267 | 265 | 3 | 117 |
| 2 | Suresh Raina (CSK/GL) | 2008–2021 | 205 | 204 | 3 | 109 |
| 3 | Ravindra Jadeja (CSK/GL/Kochi/RR) | 2008–2025 | 254 | 253 | 4 | 109 |
| 4 | Kieron Pollard (MI) | 2010–2022 | 189 | 189 | 2 | 103 |
| 5 | Rohit Sharma (DCH/MI) | 2008–2025 | 272 | 272 | 3 | 102 |
| 6 | Shikhar Dhawan (DC/DCH/MI/PBKS/SRH) | 2008–2024 | 222 | 222 | 3 | 99 |
| 7 | AB de Villiers (DC/RCB) | 2008–2021 | 184 | 130 | 3 | 90 |
| 8 | David Warner (DC/SRH) | 2009–2024 | 184 | 183 | 4 | 86 |
| 9 | Faf du Plessis (CSK/DC/RCB/RPS) | 2012–2025 | 154 | 152 | 4 | 85 |
| 10 | Manish Pandey (DC/KKR/LSG/MI/PWI/RCB/SRH) | 2008–2025 | 174 | 174 | 3 | 83 |
These figures highlight longevity as much as skill. Most players on this list featured regularly for over a decade, often fielding in high-traffic areas.
Virat Kohli and the most catches in IPL history
Virat Kohli sits alone at the top of the list and remains the benchmark for consistency.
- 117 catches in 267 matches
- Average of nearly one catch every two games
- Regular fielder in the inner ring and deep cover
Kohli’s catching success comes from anticipation rather than height or flash. One of his most replayed moments remains the one-handed boundary catch to dismiss Chris Lynn in IPL 2018. Even late into his career, his alertness has not dipped.
For Royal Challengers Bangalore, Kohli’s presence in the field often set standards for younger players.
Why Suresh Raina and Ravindra Jadeja rank so high
Suresh Raina and Ravindra Jadeja share second place with 109 catches each, but their styles differ.
- Raina excelled at close-in catching and point
- Jadeja dominates the circle with speed and reflexes
- Both played most of their IPL careers with CSK
Raina earned his “Mr. IPL” tag partly because of his fielding under pressure. Jadeja, often called “Sir Jadeja” by fans, adds catching strength to his bowling and batting.
Their numbers show how Chennai Super Kings built success around sharp fielding.
Big impact fielders: Pollard and Rohit Sharma
Kieron Pollard and Rohit Sharma represent Mumbai Indians’ long dominance.
- Pollard took 103 catches in 189 matches
- Rohit Sharma crossed 100 catches despite opening the batting
- Both often fielded near boundaries in key moments
Pollard’s one-handed catch to dismiss MS Dhoni in IPL 2021 remains a highlight. Rohit, meanwhile, has taken several pressure catches during playoff games, showing calm leadership in the field.
Their contributions underline why Mumbai Indians won multiple titles.
Modern athleticism: de Villiers, Warner, and du Plessis
This group reflects the rise of athletic fielding in IPL.
- AB de Villiers took 90 catches in limited innings
- David Warner remains sharp in the deep
- Faf du Plessis is known for boundary-line awareness
De Villiers could field anywhere, often creating chances that did not exist. Warner’s outfield speed saved runs as often as it created wickets. Du Plessis turned matches with catches inches from the rope.
These players showed that catching is not just about safety but timing.
Manish Pandey and the value of consistency
Manish Pandey rounds out the top 10 with 83 catches.
- Played for multiple franchises
- Maintained steady fielding standards
- Often trusted on the boundary
Pandey may not feature highlight reels often, but his numbers reflect reliability. Teams value players who convert routine chances without fuss.
Players with the most dropped catches in IPL history
Even elite fielders miss chances, especially over long careers. High involvement often leads to higher drop counts.
Here are players reported to have the most dropped catches in IPL history.
| Rank | Player | Dropped catches | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Virat Kohli | 15 | High involvement, two drops five times in IPL 2025 |
| 2 | Ravindra Jadeja | 14 | Frequently placed in catching zones |
| 3 | Robin Uthappa | 12 | Shifted from wicketkeeping to outfield |
| 4 | Harbhajan Singh | 12 | Long career with many reflex chances |
| 5 | Rohit Sharma | 11–12 | Estimates vary by season |
| 6 | Suresh Raina | Around 10 | Numbers differ across seasons |
| 7 | Kieron Pollard | 9 | Attempted many high-risk catches |
These figures do not reduce their fielding value. They reflect opportunity and involvement more than weakness.
Why catching records matter in IPL 2026
The top 10 players with the most catches in IPL history show how the league has changed.
- Fielding is now a selection factor
- Inner-ring athleticism saves runs and creates wickets
- Teams train catching like batting skills
As younger players enter IPL 2026, these records will be challenged. Fitness levels and fielding drills suggest more catches per season ahead.
FAQs about the top 10 players with the most catches in IPL history
Who took 109 catches in 205 matches in IPL?
Suresh Raina took 109 catches in 205 matches, placing him joint second on the all-time list.
Who has the most catches in IPL history?
Virat Kohli has the most catches in IPL history with 117.
Who took the most catches in a single IPL season?
AB de Villiers holds the record with 19 catches in IPL 2016.
Which active player has the most IPL catches in 2026?
Virat Kohli remains the active player with the most IPL catches.
Who has the most catches as a wicketkeeper in IPL?
MS Dhoni has the most catches by a wicketkeeper in IPL history.
Which team has the best overall catching record in IPL?
Mumbai Indians consistently rank among the top teams for catching efficiency.
Does catching impact IPL results?
Yes, dropped and taken catches often decide close matches.
Are boundary riders more likely to take catches now?
Yes, modern fitness has improved success rates near the rope.
Can these records be broken soon?
It is possible, but longevity will matter as much as skill.
Why do top fielders also have more dropped catches?
They are involved in more chances, which increases both takes and misses.
Final thoughts
The top 10 players with the most catches in IPL history tell a clear story. T20 cricket rewards alert minds as much as quick hands. Virat Kohli’s record stands tall, but it is supported by years of effort from players who treated fielding seriously.
As IPL 2026 approaches, expect sharper catching, fewer excuses, and new names pushing toward this list. For fans, it is a reminder that some of the biggest moments happen without the bat or ball in hand.
Hi, I’m Alex, a cricket author who follows the game every single day. I write match updates, player stories, league news, and simple guides for fans. My aim is to make cricket easy to read and fun to follow. From international games to local leagues, I track scores, form, and key moments to bring clear and useful content for readers who love the sport as much as I do.
