Indian Premier League is undoubtedly a money-spinner league, but it’s also a pool of the most exceptional talent across the world. A league where the entire cricketing world watches as teams lock horns every day, sweating for every wicket and run, showcasing the hunger to win, regardless of what they have to put at stake. Teams have felt heartbreak after losing by narrow margins, while others have displayed their prowess by clinching victories by the smallest of margins.
As IPL 2024 knocks on the door, excitement for records is peaking. Ahead of this year’s league, it’s important to delve into records that are sometimes unwanted and sometimes speak of the glory of snatching victories from the jaws of defeat.
5. CSK vs. Delhi Daredevils
In 2015, during the Chennai vs. Delhi Daredevils encounter, Chennai set a target of 151 runs to chase. The men in yellow restricted Delhi Daredevils to 150 runs, winning by just 1 run. Considered one of the epic battles, CSK bowled to the rhythm of MS Dhoni’s mindset, leaving fans on the edge of their seats until the last delivery of the match.
4. MI vs. Pune Warriors
In 2012, when Pune Warriors entered the IPL arena, hopes were high for the team. Sadly, the team continued to have poor outings in the league. But one of the most nail-biting finishes remains etched in the minds of cricketing fans. Mumbai Indians won the match against their neighboring city by just one run, leaving fans in suspense until the last moment.
3. Delhi Daredevils vs. Rajasthan Royals
In 2012, Delhi Daredevils locked horns with Rajasthan Royals, clinching victory by just 1 run against their target of 153 runs. The side always seemed promising with the likes of Virender Sehwag but has yet to win a single trophy. Under Shreyas Iyer’s captaincy, the side reached the finals against Mumbai Indians in 2020 but unfortunately lost to MI’s legacy of winning trophies.
2. Kings XI Punjab vs. Deccan Chargers
In 2009, Kings XI Punjab secured an unbelievable victory by just 1 run against Deccan Chargers at Johannesburg. For the first time, IPL was organized outside of India. Kings XI Punjab, boasting players like Yuvraj Singh, secured an unexpected win while setting a target of 135 runs.
1. Kings XI Punjab vs. Mumbai Indians
Winning by a narrow margin may seem tough, but Kings XI Punjab appeared to be masters of it. This clash is ranked at the top, leaving fans sitting at the edge of their seats. In 2008, Kings XI Punjab won by just 1 run while setting a target of 190 runs at Wankhede. Mumbai Indians came close to defeating Kings XI Punjab at home but failed to seal the deal.
