Most unsuccessful team in IPL and their journey

Indian Premier League (IPL), one of the most popular leagues globally, has witnessed highs and lows of its teams since its inception in 2008. A total of 15 franchises have participated in the league so far, and it currently has 10 teams. Most of the active teams have failed to achieve success in any of the seasons.  

Some teams have shown mesmerizing performances in a few seasons of the IPL, while others are yet to clinch a trophy in the lucrative league. These teams can be referred to as the most unsuccessful team in IPL or weak team in IPL.

In this article, we explore the five unsuccessful teams in IPL history.  

Win-loss record of an unsuccessful team in IPL

Punjab Kings

Punjab Kings (PBKS), formerly known as Kings XI Punjab, is the most unsuccessful team in IPL with a winning percentage of just 44.30. They made a solid start in the inaugural IPL season in 2008, reaching the semifinal with a winning percentage of 66. They failed to create an impressive performance since then but managed to make a comeback in the 2014 season, topping the table with a 77% winning percentage.

Regrettably, PBKS only qualified once for the playoffs in 17 IPL seasons. In the 2024 edition, they finished ninth in the ten-team points table with just five wins and nine defeats. 

Delhi Capitals

Delhi Capitals (DC) is second in the list with a slight difference in the winning percentage compared to the Punjab Kings. Despite having a roster with some big names, DC’s performances were below par over the years. The Delhi-based franchise did make an impact in the 2020 season, reaching the final. Unfortunately, they failed to crown the title after being defeated by five-time IPL champions Mumbai Indians in the summit clash.

However, they have made significant changes in their roster in recent seasons, but still failed to make a mark in the league. They did not reach the playoffs in the previous season, finishing sixth in the points table. 

Royal Challengers Bengaluru

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is one team with a huge fan base and a star-studded roster, including the likes of veteran India batter Virat Kohli. Despite having the services of some big-hitters over the years, RCB are considered a weak team in IPL as they are yet to win a title in the cash-rich league. 

Interestingly, RCB have reached the IPL playoffs nine times and played the finals thrice— 2009, 2011, and 2016. In the 2024 IPL, RCB secured a playoff spot after a commanding win over five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

Sunrisers Hyderabad

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) made their first IPL appearance in 2013, where they secured a playoff spot after finishing fourth in the points table. They have made a huge impact in the 2016 season, winning their maiden title with a win over Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

Following this season, their performances were below expectations, and they struggled to make a noticeable impact. SRH made significant changes in their coaching setup and roster after a disappointing 2023 season. They have broken various records in this season and reached the final only to be outplayed by the Kolkata Knight Riders.

Rajasthan Royals

Rajasthan Royals (RR), the inaugural IPL champions, failed to replicate their opening success in the following seasons. The Rajasthan-based franchise has made many changes in their captaincies and team members, but continues to face setbacks. The team, led by Sanju Samson, delivered an impressive performance in the 2022 IPL but fell short of victory after a defeat in the final against the then debutants Gujarat Titans. RR failed to make it to the playoffs in the 2023 season but staged a stunning comeback in the subsequent season and finished third in the standings.

Conclusion

All teams in the IPL have faced various challenges over the years in securing a title. Alongside these five teams, other teams also struggled to consistently achieve success. Currently, Punjab Kings is the most unsuccessful team in IPL history with a low winning percentage of 44.30. With every season, all the teams have the chance to learn from the setbacks and rebuild their side to make notable turnarounds.