Is IPL Logo Inspired by Ex-Bangladesh Cricketer Mashrafe Mortaza or Ab de Villiers?

Since its inception in 2008, the Indian Premier League (IPL) logo has become one of the most recognizable symbols in global sports. However, a persistent mystery continues to fuel debates across social media: which cricketer inspired the silhouette of the batsman playing a flamboyant swashbuckling shot? While fans frequently cite South African legend AB de Villiers or former Bangladesh captain Mashrafe Mortaza as the muses, the truth behind the design is more focused on brand identity than individual tribute. IPL Broadcast Set To Be Suspended in Bangladesh Following Mustafizur Rahman's Release From KKR Amid Diplomatic Tensions.

The Case for the "360-Degree" Inspiration

The most popular theory among fans is that the logo depicts AB de Villiers. Known as "Mr. 360," de Villiers’ unorthodox ability to hit the ball to all corners of the ground aligns with the dynamic, aggressive posture shown in the logo. The high backlift and the commitment to the stroke mirrored the "T20 revolution" that de Villiers came to personify during his storied career with the Royal Challengers Bangalore.

However, a significant chronological flaw exists in this theory. The IPL logo was unveiled in late 2007, ahead of the 2008 inaugural season. At that time, while de Villiers was an established international player, he had not yet developed the specific "360-degree" T20 style that would later make him a global icon.

The Mashrafe Mortaza Connection

In recent years, a vocal segment of fans, particularly from Bangladesh, has argued that the logo was inspired by a specific photograph of Mashrafe Mortaza. The image in question shows Mortaza playing a powerful lofted shot during a match in the early 2000s.

Supporters of this theory point to the identical alignment of the feet and the angle of the bat. While the visual resemblance is striking, there is no official record of the BCCI or the design agency sourcing Mortaza’s likeness for the league’s primary branding.

Official Stance: A "Generic" Representation

According to the BCCI and the original design team responsible for the IPL’s visual identity, the logo does not represent any specific individual. Instead, it was designed as a generic representation of a modern T20 batsman.

The goal was to create a symbol that captured the "spirit of the game"—defined by power, innovation, and movement—rather than tying the league’s identity to a single player. By using a stylized silhouette, the league ensured the logo would remain timeless, regardless of which stars rose or retired.

Notably, the official designers, UK based design agency VentureThree, have never released a statement identifying a specific player as the inspiration. Despite years of public speculation, those behind the creative process have maintained a strict silence regarding any particular muse.

Evolution of a Global Brand

While the silhouette has remained largely unchanged for nearly two decades, the surrounding elements of the logo have evolved. From the early "DLF IPL" days to the current "TATA IPL" era, the branding has integrated various title sponsors while maintaining the blue, orange, and white color scheme that symbolizes the energy and vibrancy of Indian cricket. Simon Taufel, Former ICC Elite Level Umpire, Suggests A Law Change in T20 Cricket Allowing Bowlers to Bowl Five Overs in A Match.

As the IPL continues to grow into a multi-billion dollar enterprise, the mystery of the "logo man" remains part of the tournament's folklore. Much like the NBA’s Jerry West silhouette, the figure has transcended its origins to become a universal symbol for the sport’s most lucrative league.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 04, 2026 07:25 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).