Some IPL legends have been so loyal to their franchises that they chose to hang up their boots rather than wear another team’s jersey. Their bond with one franchise went beyond contracts and became a matter of the heart.

Andre Russell – The KKR match-winner

Andre Russell started his IPL journey with Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) in 2012, but his real stardom came after joining Kolkata Knight Riders in 2014. That same year, KKR won the IPL title, and Russell became a crucial part of their success story. Over the years, he turned into one of the most feared finishers in T20 cricket, smashing massive sixes in the final overs and also picking up important wickets with his medium-pace bowling.

For KKR, Russell has scored over 2,400 runs at a strike rate above 170 and has taken more than 100 wickets. His ability to single-handedly change games in just a few overs made him a fan favourite and a KKR legend. The emotional connection he built with the team and the city of Kolkata has kept him loyal to the purple and gold jersey throughout his IPL career.

Kieron Pollard – Mumbai Indians’ all-round warrior

Kieron Pollard is one of the most successful overseas players in IPL history. He joined Mumbai Indians in 2010 and went on to become a vital part of the team for over a decade. In 189 IPL matches, Pollard scored 3,412 runs at a blistering strike rate, often winning difficult matches for MI with his big-hitting ability. He also contributed 69 wickets with his medium-pace bowling, making him a complete all-rounder.

Pollard was not just a player but a leader and a mentor for younger players at MI. He played a key role in Mumbai Indians winning five IPL titles, the most by any franchise. His loyalty to MI was unshakable, and even after his playing days, he stayed connected to the team as a coach and mentor. Pollard never wanted to play for any other franchise, making him a one-team legend in IPL history.

Suresh Raina – Mr. IPL and CSK’s heartbeat

Suresh Raina is the ultimate symbol of loyalty in the IPL. He played for Chennai Super Kings from the very first season in 2008 and became the face of the franchise alongside MS Dhoni. In 205 IPL matches, Raina scored 5,528 runs, making him one of only a few players to cross the 5,000-run mark in IPL history. He scored 350 or more runs in 12 different IPL seasons, showing incredible consistency year after year.

Raina was known as “Chinna Thala” (junior leader) in Chennai and was loved by fans for his explosive batting, brilliant fielding, and partnership with Dhoni. When CSK went unsold at the 2022 mega auction and Raina was not retained, he chose to retire from the IPL rather than play for another team. His decision showed how deep his bond with CSK was – for him, IPL without the yellow jersey was not worth it.

Today, Raina stays connected to cricket through commentary and analysis, but his legacy as a one-franchise player remains special. He represents the emotional side of IPL, where loyalty and love for a team matter more than money or opportunities elsewhere.