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The Indian Premier League (IPL), since its inception in 2008, has seen some breathtaking performances from various franchises. While some teams have been highly successful with multiple titles to their name, some have remained unlucky, falling short of the trophy despite consistent performances over the years.
As IPL 2025 enters its final stretch and the top four teams have secured their playoff spots, let’s take a look at five franchises that have qualified for the playoffs the most times.
Here are the top 5 teams with most number of IPL playoffs:
5. Sunrisers Hyderabad (7 times)
Also known as the ‘Orange Army’, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) have been one of the most consistent teams over the years. Despite their late entry into the tournament in 2013, the side has managed to make it to this elite list. Champions of the 2016 edition under David Warner, SRH have also been 2-time runners-up. Previously featuring stars like Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Rashid Khan, SRH have made it to the playoffs 7 times. Their most consistent phase came between 2016 and 2020, where the Orange Army delivered multiple playoff appearances.
4. Kolkata Knight Riders (8 times)
Fourth on the list is Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), the champions of the previous edition, who have delivered some scintillating performances in the league so far. Despite their inconsistent start to the tournament, the side has worked hard and managed to secure 8 playoff appearances. Featuring T20 stalwarts like Andre Russell and Sunil Narine, KKR has lifted the title 3 times (2012, 2014, and 2025), solidifying their status as one of the league’s strongest teams.
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3. Royal Challengers (10 times)
Another in the list is one of the most consistent yet unlucky teams in the IPL. Backed by strong fan support and Virat Kohli’s star power, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is the only team in the list with no title to their name. RCB reached the finals three times — in 2009, 2011, and 2016 — but couldn’t cross the finish line. Apart from this, Bengaluru have made 7 additional playoff appearances, mostly finishing in third or fourth place, keeping their title hopes alive season after season.
2. Mumbai Indians (11 times)
How can one misses out Mumbai Indians (MI) from the list. The 5-time title holders and one of the most successful franchises in the league. Having solid core built around legend Rohit Sharma for much of their successful era, MI has consistently made it to the playoffs, especially during the 2013–2020 phase, which saw them win five championships. Apart from this MI have also delivered 6 additional top-four appearances, which also includes the runner-ups of 2010 edition.
1. Chennai Super Kings (12 times)
On top of the list is Chennai Super Kings (CSK), a side synonymous with consistency and excellence. With 5 titles to their name, CSK have repeatedly delivered some scintillating performances throughout the league’s history. Of their 11 playoff appearances, they have also finished as runners-up 5 times, showcasing their ability to compete at the highest level. Led for years by the legendary MS Dhoni, the team’s composed leadership, loyal fanbase, and well-balanced squad have been key to their sustained success.
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