Top five most followed IPL teams on Instagram

The Indian Premier League (IPL), which began in 2008, has grown into one of the biggest sporting events in the world. Now in its 18th season, the 2025 edition features ten teams — a rise from the original eight — reflecting the league’s remarkable growth and popularity. Over the years, some teams have come and gone, featuring only in a few seasons before being dissolved due to various reasons.

Among the franchises, Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) stand out as the most successful teams in IPL history, each boasting five championship titles. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) follow with three trophies, while Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), Rajasthan Royals (RR), Gujarat Titans (GT), and the now-defunct Deccan Chargers (DC) have each clinched the title once.

While the action on the field captivates fans, the excitement spills over onto social media, where team rivalries continue to play out. Instagram, in particular, has become a major platform for teams to engage with their supporters and grow their fan bases. All ten current IPL franchises have amassed millions of followers, showcasing their popularity beyond the pitch.

Interestingly, despite MI and CSK being the most decorated IPL teams, they are not the most followed on Instagram. The title of the most followed IPL team on Instagram belongs to a franchise with over 20 million followers, underlining how social media engagement doesn’t always mirror on-field success.

With that in mind, let’s take a look at the top five most-followed IPL teams on Instagram.

5. Sunrisers Hyderabad - 5.4 Million

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) hold the fifth spot on this list. The franchise made its IPL debut in 2013, following the termination of the Deccan Chargers. SRH boasts a strong fanbase, with 5.4 million followers on Instagram. Currently led by Australian pacer Pat Cummins, the team has had notable success in the league. They clinched their maiden IPL title in 2016, defeating Royal Challengers Bangalore in a thrilling final under the leadership of David Warner. SRH also finished as runners-up in the 2018 and 2024 seasons, showcasing their consistency and competitiveness over the years.

4. Kolkata Knight Riders - 7.5 Million

The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have been an integral part of the Indian Premier League (IPL) since its inception in 2008. They etched their name in history by winning the very first match of the league's debut season. Over the years, KKR has built a strong legacy, clinching the IPL title three times—in 2012, 2014, and most recently, in 2024 under the leadership of Ajinkya Rahane. Their popularity extends beyond the field, with a massive fan base that includes over 7.5 million followers on Instagram.

3. Mumbai Indians - 18 Million

The Mumbai Indians (MI) have been one of the most dominant teams in IPL history since the league's inception. They’ve reached the playoffs in 11 seasons and have clinched the championship five times — in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2020.

Their consistent success, especially during the last decade, firmly established them as the most formidable side of that era. Currently led by Hardik Pandya, MI commands a massive fan base, boasting over 18 million followers on Instagram.

A key figure in their journey has been Rohit Sharma, one of India’s most celebrated cricketers. He joined the franchise in 2011 and has played a pivotal role in MI’s rise to the top.

2. Chennai Super Kings - 18.6 Million

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) rank second on the list with 18.6 million followers on Instagram, a testament to their massive fan base. A major reason for their popularity is the iconic MS Dhoni, who has been the face of the franchise since the inaugural IPL season in 2008. Under his leadership, CSK have clinched five IPL titles and have established themselves as the most consistent team in the tournament’s history, reaching the playoffs an impressive 12 times.

1. Royal Challengers Bengaluru - 20 Million

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) may not have an IPL trophy yet, but when it comes to popularity, they’re way ahead of the game. With over 20 million followers on Instagram, they’ve beaten every other team on the platform!

RCB has been part of the IPL since the very first season in 2008. Over the years, they’ve made it to the playoffs 10 times and finished as runners-up in three seasons — showing that they’ve been strong contenders throughout.

A big reason behind RCB’s massive fan following is Virat Kohli. He’s been with the team from the start and even captained them from 2013 to 2021. Kohli isn’t just a cricket icon — he’s also the most followed cricketer in the world, and his star power has definitely helped RCB shine off the field, even if the IPL title still remains out of reach.

Cover Credits - RCB