In the world of the IPL, loyalty is a rare commodity. For every player who dedicates their career to one franchise, there are a handful of players who have become true T20 nomads. They travel from one team to the next in search of a perfect fit.
It’s a journey filled with incredible highs, heartbreaking lows, and a profound story of adaptability. We’re not talking about just any players—we’re talking about the exclusive club of players who played for 6 or more IPL teams, a milestone that speaks volumes about their versatility and the dynamic nature of the league.
The Trailblazer: The First Player to Hit This Milestone
The story of this exclusive club begins with one man: Parthiv Patel. The diminutive wicketkeeper-batter was a pioneer, a true veteran of the auction room floor. He was the first player in IPL history to play for six different franchises, a testament to his consistent, if not explosive, contributions.
His journey began with the inaugural champions, Chennai Super Kings, before moving on to Deccan Chargers and Kochi Tuskers Kerala. His stints at Sunrisers Hyderabad and Royal Challengers Bangalore were followed by his most successful period with Mumbai Indians.
The Full List: Who Else Joined the Exclusive Club?
While Parthiv Patel was the first, several other prominent names have since joined the club of players who played for 6 or more IPL teams. This list includes both Indian and international stars.
Their careers showcase the strategic fluidity of the league and the adaptability required to thrive in multiple environments.
| Player | Number of Teams | Teams Played For |
| Aaron Finch | 9 | RR, DD, PWI, SRH, MI, GL, KXIP, RCB, KKR |
| Jaydev Unadkat | 8 | KKR, DD, RCB, RPSG, RR, MI, LSG, SRH |
| Manish Pandey | 7 | MI, RCB, PWI, KKR, SRH, LSG, DC |
| Dinesh Karthik | 6 | DD, GL, KXIP, MI, KKR, RCB |
| Parthiv Patel | 6 | CSK, DCH, KTK, SRH, RCB, MI |
| Robin Uthappa | 6 | MI, RCB, PWI, KKR, RR, CSK |
| Ajinkya Rahane | 6 | MI, RR, RPSG, DC, KKR, CSK |
| Yuvraj Singh | 6 | KXIP, PWI, RCB, DD, SRH, MI |
| Ishant Sharma | 6 | DCH, DC, KXIP, KKR, RPSG, SRH |
| Irfan Pathan | 6 | KXIP, DD, SRH, CSK, RPSG, GL |
| Thisara Perera | 6 | CSK, KTK, MI, SRH, KXIP, RPSG |
Behind the Moves:
Why Do Players Switch Teams So Often?
The frequent movement of players in the IPL isn’t random; it’s a direct result of the league’s unique business model. Player auctions, trade windows, and retention policies are primary drivers.
A player might be an excellent fit for one team’s strategy but not another’s, leading to a new home in the next season. The constant flux creates opportunities for adaptable, versatile players who can fill different roles. It’s a high-stakes poker game played every year.
The Champions of Change
Beyond simply switching teams, some players have truly excelled for multiple franchises, proving their adaptability and elite skill. The nomadic careers of these athletes often include moments of profound success, not just participation.
Players like David Warner and Faf du Plessis, for example, became cornerstones of new teams after stellar stints at previous ones, consistently scoring runs and leading from the front.
Adding to this unique legacy, a select few have even scored centuries for multiple franchises, a rare feat that showcases their individual brilliance regardless of the team colors. KL Rahul, Chris Gayle, and Shane Watson are among the exclusive group of players who have hit a century for more than one IPL team.
Furthermore, several players, including Shikhar Dhawan and Ambati Rayudu, have demonstrated their long-term value by amassing over 1000 runs for more than one franchise, solidifying their status as league legends across different uniforms.
Conclusion: The Future of Loyalty in the T20 Era
The journey of these T20 nomads is a defining feature of the IPL. While fans may crave a sense of loyalty and permanence, the league’s auction and trade system prioritizes adaptability and strategic fit.
The careers of players who have joined the club of players who played for 6 or more IPL teams remind us that in the world of professional T20 cricket, a player’s worth is measured not by the length of their stay, but by their ability to thrive in a new environment, season after season. As the IPL continues to evolve, we can expect this trend of player movement to only accelerate, making these T20 adventurers even more central to the league’s narrative.
Also Read: List of IPL Players who have played for RCB, MI, & CSK
