Top 5 Successful Run Chases In IPL History
Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma ( X.COM)
The Indian Premier League has provided cricket fans with countless unforgettable moments and thrilling matches over the years. Among these, games with narrow victory margins, including those decided by just few runs, stand out as some of the most exhilarating and heart-pounding encounters in the tournament's history.
Matches decided by such slender margins not only showcase the competitiveness and intensity of the IPL but also highlight the importance of every run, ball, and decision in T20 cricket. They keep fans on the edge of their seats until the last moment and add to the tournament's allure and excitement.
Chasing down a big score in the Indian Premier League (IPL) can indeed be a daunting task given the pressure and the quality of bowling attacks. Chasing down a target of over 200 runs in the IPL requires exceptional batting prowess, nerves of steel, and remarkable team effort.
In this article, At One.Cricket let's delve into the top 5 successful run chases in IPL History.
1.RR Chased Down 224 vs PBKS (2020)
RR chased down 224 vs PBKS (X.COM)
The match between Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings in the 2020 edition of the Indian Premier League was indeed a historic and thrilling encounter, particularly notable for Rajasthan Royals' remarkable chase of 224 runs, which remains one of the highest successful run chases in IPL history. Punjab Kings, led by Mayank Agarwal's sensational unbeaten century (106 runs off 50 balls), posted a formidable total of 223/2 in their 20 overs.
Skipper Steve Smith played a crucial innings, scoring 50 runs off 27 balls, providing a solid start to the chase. However, it was Sanju Samson's magnificent innings that turned the tide in Rajasthan's favour.
Samson's aggressive batting saw him score 85 runs off just 42 balls, including 4 fours and 7 sixes, anchoring the innings with his explosive stroke play. Rahul Tewatia, coming in at number four, played an extraordinary innings, particularly in the final over. He smashed five sixes off Sheldon Cottrell's over, turning the match on its head and scoring an unbeaten 53 runs off 31 balls. Jofra Archer's cameo at the end, scoring 13 runs off just 3 balls, provided the finishing touches as Rajasthan Royals achieved the monumental target with three balls to spare, securing a historic victory.
2. MI Chased Down 219 vs CSK In IPL (2021)
Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni (X.COM)
In the 2021 Indian Premier League season, Mumbai Indians produced a remarkable chase against Chennai Super Kings by successfully chasing down a target of 219 runs. The men in yellow posted a formidable total of 218/4 in their 20 overs. Faf du Plessis led the charge with a scintillating century, scoring 100 runs off 52 balls, supported by Ambati Rayudu's quick fire 72 runs off 27 balls.
Mumbai Indians displayed their batting prowess as they embarked on the challenging chase. Opener Quinton de Kock provided a solid start with a brisk 38 runs off 28 balls. However, Kieron Pollard's explosive innings that turned the match in MI's favour. Pollard showcased his power-hitting abilities by smashing 87 runs off just 34 balls, including 6 fours and 8 sixes. MI achieved the target of 219 runs with an over to spare, securing a thrilling victory over CSK.
3. RR Chased Down 215 vs DC (2008)
The Rajasthan Royals' victory against the Deccan Chargers in the IPL 2008 final was a remarkable moment in IPL. Chasing down a target of 215 runs in a high-pressure final showcased their resilience and fighting spirit.
Yusuf Pathan's explosive innings, scoring 61 runs off just 28 balls with 4 fours and 6 sixes, was pivotal in steering the Royals towards victory. His aggressive batting set the tone for the chase and provided the much-needed momentum.
Mohammad Kaif's contribution with 34 runs added stability to the innings, and the final flourish came from then-skipper Shane Warne, who remained unbeaten on 22 runs off just 9 balls, including hitting the winning runs.
4. SRH Chased Down 215 vs RR (2023)
SRH Chased Down 215 vs RR (X.COM)
In the 2023 IPL season, Sunrisers Hyderabad successfully chased down a target of 215 runs against the Rajasthan Royals. Abdul Samad's last-ball six to complete the chase was undoubtedly the highlight moment of the match, showcasing nerves of steel and exceptional batting prowess under pressure.
Glenn Phillips' quick fire 25 runs off just seven deliveries would have provided crucial momentum to SRH's innings, setting the stage for the thrilling conclusion. Despite Jos Buttler's brilliant 95 runs for Rajasthan Royals, their total of 214-2 wasn't enough to secure victory, highlighting the competitive nature of T20I cricket.
5. MI Chased Down 215 vs Punjab Kings (2023)
The match between Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings at the IS Bindra PCA Stadium was indeed a thrilling encounter, marked by Mumbai's successful chase of 215 runs and their six-wicket victory.
Ishan Kishan's impressive innings of 75 runs and Suryakumar Yadav's whirlwind 66 played crucial roles in Mumbai's successful chase. Their partnership of 116 runs for the third wicket provided the foundation for Mumbai's pursuit of the daunting target set by Punjab Kings.