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When Gautam Gambhir-Led KKR Conquered MS Dhoni's CSK To Clinch Maiden IPL Title In 2012

OTD, KKR won their 1st IPL trophy [X]OTD, KKR won their 1st IPL trophy [X]

On May 27, 2012, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) beat defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at Chennai to claim their maiden IPL title, thus triggering the dawn of a new era under Gautam Gambhir's captaincy. 

Entering the IPL 2012 season finals, CSK were the defending champions and favourites, as home advantage played a significant role in setting the odds. 

On the other hand, KKR, led by Gautam Gambhir, had transformed into a competitive team after struggling in the initial seasons of the IPL.

On the eve of the finals, CSK batted first and set a challenging target of 191 runs, courtesy of a brilliant knock by Suresh Raina (73 off 38 balls), supported by notable contributions from Michael Hussey (54) and Murali Vijay (42).

KKR's back was against the wall in the chase as captain Gautam Gambhir was sent packing in the first over by Ben Hilfenhaus.

However, Manvinder Bisla, who was, in fact, brought into the side as a replacement, played a match-winning inning on the big day. Bisla weathered the storm and scored 89 off 48 deliveries against a dominant bowling unit. 

Additionally, Bisla was well supported by Jacques Kallis (69 off 49 balls). The duo's 136-run partnership put KKR in a comfortable position.

With just nine runs needed off the final over, Manoj Tiwary added his final touch with two boundaries as KKR chased down the total with two balls to spare.

This victory gave KKR their first IPL title and ended MS Dhoni-led CSK's dominance in the league. 

KKR fans celebrated the title win immensely, which was a testament to Gautam Gambhir's leadership. The 2012 IPL final is remembered as one of the most thrilling finals in the tournament's history, marking KKR's rise in the IPL.