Jesse Ryder lit up the IPL between 2009 and 2012, amassing 604 runs in 29 innings at a blistering strike-rate of 131. The powerful left-hander smashed 69 fours and 19 sixes for Pune Warriors and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, crossing fifty four times and peaking with an 86-run master-class. While primarily a marauding opener, Ryder also chipped in with eight wickets in 16 bowling innings, showing his value as a genuine all-rounder during his three-season stint in the league.

Faf du Plessis has become one of the most bankable IPL openers across 13 seasons and four franchises, culminating in his 2025 stint with Delhi Capitals. The South African has stacked up 4,773 runs at a strike rate of 135, carving 439 boundaries and clearing the rope 174 times—numbers that paint the picture of a batsman who keeps the scoreboard in perpetual motion. With 39 half-centuries from 147 innings, he has built consistency into aggression, while his unbeaten 96 remains the tantalising high-water mark just short of a maiden IPL ton. From Chennai Super Kings’ yellow to Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s red and now Delhi Capitals’ blue, du Plessis has turned every jersey into a run-making statement, proving that adaptability and class travel well in T20 cricket.

Note: This overview is partially generated using AI and is based on statistical data. Please verify with official sources for complete accuracy.