5 unforgettable IPL moments in history
The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 is set to start to in the month of March. This will be 17th edition of the tournament and will feature some of the brilliant cricketing action. From the onset of the league, it has been a real hit and has also gathered enormous crowd. Throughout its beginning, the T20 extravaganza has provided numerous iconic moments for its dedicated fans.
Each season has been marked by drama as well as enthusiasm, and suspense which are indeed essential elements of the lucrative league. It has also elevated the excitement levels of supporters. As the tournament celebrates its 17th year, let us look at top five iconic moments which have been witnessed in the league;
5.Rajasthan Royals winning inaugural IPL
Rajasthan Royals in 2008 (Source: Twitter)
Rajasthan Royals (RR) made history by becoming the first team to win the IPL trophy. Despite a significant nine-wicket loss to Delhi Capitals (then Delhi Daredevils) at the start of their journey, RR, led by Shane Warne, rebounded and displayed quality cricket. Their resilience and improved performance became evident as the tournament progressed.
In a league featuring experienced teams like Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings, and Deccan Chargers, RR embraced a fearless playing style. They finished at the top of the points table with a record 11 wins in the league stage. In the knockout, RR defeated Delhi Capitals by 105 runs in the semi-final.
In the grand final, RR secured a thrilling three-wicket victory on the last ball against MS Dhoni-led CSK. Despite being perceived as a weak and inexperienced side, RR’s young brigade, including players like Shane Watson, Yusuf Pathan, and Shane Watson, stepped up and delivered their best to claim the title.
4.CSK winning IPL 2018 after being banned for two years
CSK winning IPL 2018 (Source: Twitter)
After a two-year ban, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) made a triumphant return in 2018 under MS Dhoni’s captaincy. Featuring seasoned players like Shane Watson, Faf du Plessis, Ravindra Jadeja, Harbhajan Singh, and Suresh Raina CSK secured the second position in the league stage. They won nine games in 14 games, trailing Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).
CSK’s dominant run continued in the Playoffs and then in the final. They defeated SRH by eight wickets to claim their third IPL title. Shane Watson was the standout performer as he played a crucial role. He even scored an unbeaten century in the final.
3.Chris Gayle’s unbeaten 175 runs against Pune Warriors India (PWI) in IPL 2013
Chris Gayle’s unbeaten 175 (Source: Twitter)
Chris Gayle who is known for his remarkable IPL career, made a significant impact when he joined Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in 2011. The veteran batter showcased his extraordinary talent and achieved this feat of winning the Orange Cap in consecutive IPL seasons (2011 and 2012). Gayle reached new heights by scoring an unbeaten 175-run innings against Pune Warriors India (PWI) in 2013 edition. This is by far the highest Individual score in the IPL history.
His extraordinary knock, saw 13 fours and 17 sixes. His innings propelled RCB to a monumental total of 263 runs. At that time, this made them the first team to surpass the 250-run mark. This remarkable innings contributed to RCB’s 130-run victory in the match.
2. Virat Kohli- AB de Villiers’ record partnership against Gujarat Lions (GL) in IPL 2016
Virat Kohli- AB de Villiers’ (Source: Twitter)
In 2016, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) had a remarkable campaign in the IPL where they finished as the runners-up. The star batter Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers played pivotal roles as well as with Kohli emerging as the tournament’s top-scorer. In addition to this, de Villiers ended the third spot in the highest run-getter chart.
In the 44th match against Gujarat Lions (GL), both batters showcased their brilliance, putting together a record 229-run partnership after RCB chose to bat first. This phenomenal stand led to a colossal total of 248/3 and a comprehensive victory by a record margin of 144 runs. Although this record was later surpassed in 2017.
1.Brendon McCullum’s 158 in first IPL match
Brendon McCullum’s 158 (Source: Twitter)
In the inaugural IPL match in 2008, Brendon McCullum delivered a spectacular performance for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Despite RCB captain Rahul Dravid choosing to bowl after winning the toss at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, McCullum’s aggressive batting stole the show.
The current England Test coach scored an impressive 158 runs in just 73 deliveries. He dominated bowlers like Zaheer Khan, Jacques Kallis, and Praveen Kumar. McCullum’s explosive innings propelled KKR to a massive 140-run victory in the opening match. This marked a memorable start to the IPL.
