The Indian Premier League (IPL) is more than just a cricket tournament; it’s a thrilling showcase where records are broken and history is made. One of the most exciting aspects of T20 cricket is the intense run chases, and the IPL has seen some unforgettable ones. Top 5 Successful Run Chases in IPL History highlight the drama and excitement, with teams displaying incredible spirit and batting power to chase down big targets, often with heart-stopping finishes and towering sixes. Let’s take a look at the Top 5 Successful Run Chases in IPL History.
5. Mumbai Indians (219/6) vs Chennai Super Kings – IPL 2021
- Venue: Delhi, Arun Jaitely Stadium
- Date: May 1, 2021
In a thrilling encounter between MI and CSK, this match had all the ingredients of a classic. Batting first, Chennai set a challenging target of 218/4, with explosive contributions from Ambati Rayudu (72* off 27), Faf du Plessis, and Moeen Ali. Mumbai’s chase looked uncertain until Kieron Pollard delivered one of the finest T20 innings ever. Pollard smashed 87 off 34 balls, including 8 sixes, leading MI to a stunning victory off the final ball. The West Indian star decimated CSK’s bowlers with sheer power, securing one of the Top 5 Successful Run Chases in IPL History.
Key Performers:
- Kieron Pollard – 87* (34)
- Rohit Sharma – 35 (24)
- Hardik Pandya – 16 (7)
4. Rajasthan Royals (224/2) vs Kolkata Knight Riders – IPL 2024
- Venue: Kolkata, Eden Gardens
- Date: April 16, 2024
This chase witnessed the joint-highest target ever successfully chased in IPL history. KKR set a massive total of 223/6, thanks to Sunil Narine’s remarkable century (109 off 56). Top 5 Successful Run Chases in IPL History feature this thrilling encounter, where Rajasthan Royals had their own magician in Jos Buttler, who was in breathtaking form. Buttler struck 107 off 60 balls, guiding the chase with composure. With key contributions from Rovman Powell and Dhruv Jurel, the Royals completed the chase on the final ball, finishing at 224/2.
Key Performers:
- Jos Buttler – 107 (60)
- Rovman Powell – 26* (13)
- Dhruv Jurel – 26* (12)
3. Rajasthan Royals (226/6) vs Punjab Kings – IPL 2020
- Venue: Sharjah Cricket Stadium
- Date: September 27, 2020
In one of the greatest run chases in IPL history, Rajasthan Royals stunned Punjab Kings (formerly Kings XI Punjab). Punjab set a massive 223/2, with Mayank Agarwal smashing 106 off 50 balls. Despite the daunting target, the Royals fought back, with Sanju Samson scoring 85 off 42. The game changed when Rahul Tewatia, who had struggled earlier, blasted five sixes off Sheldon Cottrell in the 18th over. The Royals completed the chase with three balls to spare, finishing at 226/6, setting a record for the Top 5 Successful Run Chases in IPL History.
Key Performers:
- Sanju Samson – 85 (42)
- Rahul Tewatia – 53 (31)
- Steven Smith – 50 (27)
2. Sunrisers Hyderabad (250/2) vs Punjab Kings – IPL 2025
- Venue: Hyderabad, Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium
- Date: April 12, 2025
In one of the Top 5 Successful Run Chases in IPL History, Sunrisers Hyderabad successfully chased down 246, the second-highest ever. Punjab Kings, led by Shreyas Iyer, set a daunting total of 245/6, with Iyer’s 82 off 36 balls. SRH’s response was explosive, as Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head added 171 in just 75 balls. Head was out for 66, but Abhishek continued with 141 off 55 balls, leading the charge. Heinrich Klaasen and Ishan Kishan ensured a smooth finish as SRH completed the chase in 18.3 overs, losing just two wickets.
Key Performers:
- Abhishek Sharma – 141 (55)
- Travis Head – 66 (34)
- Heinrich Klaasen – 24* (10)
1. Punjab Kings (262/2) vs Kolkata Knight Riders – IPL 2024
- Venue: Kolkata, Eden Gardens
- Date: April 26, 2024
In a historic IPL clash, Punjab Kings chased down the highest target ever, 262, against Kolkata Knight Riders. KKR set a massive 261/6, with fiery knocks from Phil Salt (75 off 37) and Sunil Narine (71 off 32). Punjab responded with a batting masterclass, led by Jonny Bairstow’s explosive 108 off 48 balls. Shashank Singh provided solid support with 68 off 28. The duo’s fearless approach saw Punjab reach 262/2 in just 18.4 overs, marking one of the Top 5 Successful Run Chases in IPL History.
Key Performers:
- Jonny Bairstow – 108 (48)
- Shashank Singh – 68* (28)
- Prabhsimran Singh – 54 (20)
Conclusion
These incredible run chases show that the IPL is not just about posting big scores, but about the excitement of chasing down tough targets under pressure. From Pollard’s raw power to Buttler’s elegance and Tewatia’s determination, these moments have transformed the approach to chasing in T20 cricket. With batting strength growing every season, we can expect even more unforgettable run chases in the future.
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FAQ`s
Q1: Which match holds the record for the highest successful run chase?
A: The record for the highest successful run chase in IPL history is held by Kolkata Knight Riders who successfully chased 261 against Punjab Kings.
Q2: What makes these chases memorable?
A: These chases stand out for their pressure, power-hitting, and clutch performances, showcasing players’ brilliance in high-stakes moments.