Image: Gilchrist and Pollock unveil all-time IPL XI with Dhoni as captain and no Rohit / © NDTV Sports
As the 2025 IPL season heats up, former international stars Adam Gilchrist and Shaun Pollock revealed their all-time IPL XI, adhering to the rule of selecting seven Indians and four overseas players. In a Cricbuzz video, they appointed MS Dhoni as captain and wicketkeeper of the squad. Chris Gayle and Virat Kohli, the tournament’s all-time leading run-scorer, were picked as openers, with Suresh Raina at No. 3 and AB de Villiers at No. 4. Suryakumar Yadav featured at No. 5, while the all-round department was bolstered by Ravindra Jadeja and Sunil Narine.
The bowling attack featured Lasith Malinga, who Pollock called the GOAT of IPL bowling, Jasprit Bumrah, and Yuzvendra Chahal. Narine and Rashid Khan were in consideration, but Narine’s multiple MVP awards earned him the nod. Notably, Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul were omitted, a decision that sparked debate among fans.
Gilchrist and Pollock’s XI showcases players with strong statistical backing, title wins, and match-winning credentials. Their picks reflect a balance of power-hitting, tactical depth, and bowling variety. The squad also underlines the impact overseas players like Gayle, de Villiers, Malinga, and Narine have had on IPL’s legacy.