10 Most Dangerous Batsmen in World History (2025 Stats)

The world of T20 cricket has changed dramatically with the rise of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Since its inception more than 18 years ago, the league has been home to some of the most destructive and dangerous batsmen in the world. From record-breaking knocks by legends like Chris Gayle and AB de Villiers to the new-age dominance of Virat Kohli, Jos Buttler, and Travis Head, these batters have redefined attacking cricket.

Below, we take a detailed look at the 10 most dangerous batsmen in IPL history with their 2025 stats.

Top 10 Dangerous Batsmen Of IPL: Quick Stats (2025)

Here’s a quick snapshot of the players who shaped the game and continue to dominate with their ability to score runs at blistering pace-

Top 10 Most Dangerous Batsmen in the World

1. Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli tops the charts as the most dangerous batsman in world T20 cricket. With a staggering 8661 runs in the IPL and eight centuries, he is the only player to cross the 8000-run mark in the league. What makes Kohli stand out is his consistent ability to score 600+ runs across seasons, including 657 runs in 2025 at an average of 54.75. His 973-run season in 2016 remains unmatched. Kohli has also hit the third-most sixes in the tournament, proving his dominance over bowlers year after year.

2. AB de Villiers

Known as “Mr. 360” for his ability to hit shots all around the ground, AB de Villiers revolutionized batting in the IPL. His innings of 133* off 59 balls against Mumbai Indians in 2015 is still regarded as one of the best-ever knocks in T20 history. Even post-retirement, his tally of 5162 runs with a strike rate of 151.68 cements him as one of the most iconic and dangerous batsmen ever.

3. Jos Buttler

England’s Jos Buttler has been one of the most explosive openers in the IPL. Winner of the Orange Cap in 2022 with 863 runs, he has consistently proven his worth with the bat. In his debut season for Gujarat Titans in 2025, he smashed 538 runs at a strike rate of 163.03, showcasing his fearless hitting. His ability to change games single-handedly makes him one of the most dangerous batsmen worldwide.

4. Chris Gayle

Chris Gayle, the “Universe Boss,” redefined power-hitting in T20 cricket. His 175* remains the highest-ever score in IPL history, and he was the first batter to hit 300 sixes in the league. Gayle’s ability to intimidate bowlers from ball one made him the most feared batter in T20 cricket. With 4965 IPL runs at a strike rate of 148.96, Gayle’s name will forever be synonymous with destruction.

5. Travis Head

The Australian left-hander has become one of the most dangerous players in the modern game. His breakthrough IPL 2024 season (567 runs at SR 191.55) proved he can dominate any bowling attack. With a career strike rate of 170.02 in the IPL, Head combines fearless batting with power-stroke execution, making him a future IPL legend.

6. Abhishek Sharma

Abhishek Sharma has emerged as one of the most dangerous young talents in the IPL. Known for his explosive batting, he scored 484 runs at a strike rate of 204.21 in one season. In 2025, he continued his form with 439 runs and even registered his maiden century. His fearless approach against spinners and pacers alike has made him one of India’s most exciting prospects.

7. Shreyas Iyer

Shreyas Iyer, known for his elegance and leadership, had a breakout IPL 2025 season. Scoring 604 runs at a strike rate of 175.07, he showed he could combine captaincy with run-scoring. Having led three teams to the final, Iyer’s consistency and ability to perform under pressure solidify him as one of the dangerous modern-day IPL batsmen.

8. Mitchell Marsh

The Australian all-rounder finally showed his destructive side in the 2025 season, scoring 627 runs in just 13 matches at a strike rate of 163.70. With his power-hitting abilities in the middle order, Marsh has proven he can shift games quickly. His raw strength and adaptability make him a nightmare for bowlers.

9. Rohit Sharma

Rohit Sharma, nicknamed the “Hitman,” is not just one of the most successful IPL captains but also one of the most dangerous batsmen. With 7046 runs, he sits among the top scorers in IPL history. His trademark pull shots and ability to accelerate in big games have won Mumbai Indians five titles under his leadership.

10. Nicholas Pooran

Nicholas Pooran’s fearless hitting has made him one of T20 cricket’s most lethal finishers. In IPL 2025, he struck 524 runs at a jaw-dropping strike rate of 196.25. Pooran thrives under pressure, particularly in death overs, where he frequently clears the ropes. With 14 fifties in just 90 matches, he has cemented his place as one of the most destructive batsmen in the league.

The IPL continues to be a breeding ground for the most dangerous batsmen in world cricket. Legends like Gayle and AB de Villiers have left their mark, while modern icons like Kohli, Buttler, and Rohit continue to shine. At the same time, emerging stars such as Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, and Pooran signal that the next generation is already here. As seen in 2025, cricket is evolving rapidly, but one thing remains unchanged; the dominance of fearless batters who can change games in a matter of overs.

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