Five IPL Legends Who Have Never Been Released by Their Teams

Introduction

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has seen numerous players come and go. However, a select few have remained loyal to their franchises, never facing release. Let’s dive into the stories of five IPL icons who have epitomized dedication and loyalty.

Sachin Tendulkar: Mumbai Indians

Sachin Tendulkar, the "God of Cricket," holds a unique place in IPL history. From 2008 to 2013, he played for the Mumbai Indians (MI) without ever being released. After his retirement, Tendulkar continued to mentor the squad, maintaining his connection to the team. His legacy is further echoed through his son, Arjun, who is also part of the Mumbai squad. However, reports suggest he may be traded to the Lucknow Super Giants ahead of the 2026 season.

Virat Kohli: Royal Challengers Bangalore

Since the inception of the league in 2008, Virat Kohli has been the face of the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Despite the franchise's ups and downs, he has always remained a pivotal player. Finally lifting the IPL trophy in 2025 after an 18-year wait marked a significant milestone for both Kohli and RCB.

MS Dhoni: Chennai Super Kings

MS Dhoni has been synonymous with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) since the league's inception. The franchise has never released him, as under his leadership, CSK has captured five IPL titles. The only time Dhoni played for another team was during the suspension of CSK in 2016 and 2017, where he represented Rising Pune Supergiants. Even now, he is set to feature prominently in the upcoming IPL 2026.

Sunil Narine: Kolkata Knight Riders

Joining Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in 2012, Sunil Narine has been a loyal player for over a decade. His contributions to the team have been significant, thanks to his wicket-taking abilities and explosive batting. Despite the franchise's transformations, Narine has steadfastly stood by KKR.

Shane Warne: Rajasthan Royals

The late Shane Warne was instrumental in shaping the Rajasthan Royals (RR) legacy. Captain of RR during their inaugural IPL season victory in 2008, he remained with the team until his retirement in 2011. Warne's strategic leadership laid the groundwork for the franchise's success in the tournament.

A Legacy of Loyalty

These five players are not just superstars; they represent what loyalty means in the fast-paced world of IPL. Their unwavering commitment to their teams has made them legends and continues to inspire upcoming cricketers. To summarize, here’s a quick look at the stats: