Table of Contents
The Indian Premier League (IPL) has seen numerous players make a significant impact on their captaincy debuts, with some delivering standout performances that have etched their names in the record books.
Highest score on captaincy debut for an IPL franchise
As of March 26, 2025, here are the top five highest scores recorded on captaincy debut for an IPL franchise:
5) Faf du Plessis
Faf du Plessis made his captaincy debut for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in IPL 2022 against Punjab Kings (PBKS). He scored a commendable 88 runs off just 57 balls. Although RCB did not win that match, du Plessis’ performance was notable for its maturity and strategic approach to batting under pressure. His experience as an international player brought stability to RCB’s lineup during that season.
4) Shreyas Iyer
Shreyas Iyer made a mark during his captaincy debut with Delhi Capitals in 2018. He scored an unbeaten 93 runs against Kolkata Knight Riders at the Feroz Shah Kotla (now Arun Jaitley Cricket Stadium). His innings was characterized by solid technique and aggressive stroke play, helping Delhi secure a convincing win. This performance laid the foundation for Iyer’s future leadership role within the franchise.
Also READ: IPL 2025 – Reason behind Rahul Dravid being in a wheelchair | WATCH video
3) Shreyas Iyer
Shreyas Iyer recently made headlines with his captaincy debut for Punjab Kings in IPL 2025. He scored an impressive 97 not out off just 42 deliveries against Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad. His innings featured five fours and nine sixes, demonstrating his ability to accelerate scoring when needed. Iyer fell just three runs short of a century as he did not get the strike in the final over when teammate Shashank Singh took over and hit boundaries. Nonetheless, Iyer’s performance marked him as one of the most promising captains in recent IPL history.
𝙄.𝘾.𝙔.𝙈.𝙄
Enjoy glimpses of a Shreyas Iyer Special in Ahmedabad as he remained unbeaten on 97*(42) 👏
Updates ▶ https://t.co/PYWUriwSzY#TATAIPL | #GTvPBKS | @PunjabKingsIPL | @ShreyasIyer15 pic.twitter.com/6Iez7wJ2r6
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 25, 2025
2. Mayank Agarwal
Mayank Agarwal made an impressive captaincy debut for Punjab Kings in IPL 2021. In a match against Delhi Capitals at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, he scored an unbeaten 99 runs off 58 balls, narrowly missing out on a century. Agarwal’s innings was critical as he contributed to 60% of his team’s total score of 166. Despite his valiant effort, Punjab lost the match, but Agarwal’s performance solidified his role as a key player and leader for the franchise.
1. Sanju Samson
Sanju Samson holds the record for the highest score on captaincy debut in IPL history. Leading the Rajasthan Royals against Punjab Kings in 2021, Samson scored an explosive 119 runs off just 63 balls at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. His innings included 12 fours and 7 sixes, showcasing his aggressive batting style. This performance not only set the tone for his captaincy but also highlighted his potential as a leader after taking over from Steve Smith. Under his guidance, the Royals secured a comfortable victory, and Samson’s knock remains a benchmark for future captains.
