Best Finishing Knocks in IPL, The Indian Premier League (IPL) has produced some of the most thrilling moments in cricket history, with batsmen delivering jaw-dropping performances under extreme pressure. Over the years, we’ve witnessed unforgettable finishing knocks in IPL that turned seemingly lost games into legendary victories. These innings weren’t just about runs; they were about nerves, skill, and the sheer will to win.
In this article, Best finishing knocks in IPL, we revisit some of the greatest match-winning performances in IPL history—knocks that redefined clutch batting and left fans in awe.
MS Dhoni’s 54 (29) vs. Kings XI Punjab (2016)*
The Situation:
Chasing 173, Rising Pune Supergiant (RPS) needed 23 runs off the last over bowled by Axar Patel. With MS Dhoni at the crease, the impossible suddenly seemed possible.
The Finish:
Dhoni smashed 23 runs in the final over, including two sixes off the last two balls, to seal a miraculous win. His unbeaten 54 off 29 balls was a masterclass in finishing, proving once again why he’s called “Captain Cool.”
Why It Stands Out:
This was one of the most brutal last-over assaults in IPL history, showcasing Dhoni’s ability to stay calm and deliver under pressure.
Rahul Tewatia’s 53 (31) – 5 Sixes in an Over vs. KXIP (2020)*
The Situation:
Rajasthan Royals (RR) needed 51 runs off the last three overs against Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings). Tewatia, struggling earlier in the innings, turned the game on its head.
The Finish:
He smashed Sheldon Cottrell for five sixes in the 18th over, completely shifting momentum. His unbeaten 53 off 31 balls took RR to a record chase of 224.
Why It Stands Out:
Tewatia’s knock was a lesson in redemption—he went from looking out of place to becoming an overnight hero.
Andre Russell’s 48 (13) vs. RCB (2019)*
The Situation:
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) needed 53 off the last three overs against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). With Russell at the crease, nothing was impossible.
The Finish:
Russell went berserk, hammering 48* off just 13 balls, including seven sixes. KKR won with five balls to spare, thanks to one of the most destructive cameos ever.
Why It Stands Out:
This was pure power-hitting at its finest—Russell’s strike rate of 369.23 remains one of the highest in a match-winning IPL knock.
AB de Villiers’ 133 (59) vs. MI (2015)*
The Situation:
RCB needed a big total against Mumbai Indians (MI), and AB de Villiers delivered one of the greatest IPL innings ever.
The Finish:
His unbeaten 133 off 59 balls included 19 fours and four sixes, taking RCB to 235/1. MI fell short by 39 runs, thanks to AB’s sheer dominance.
Why It Stands Out:
This wasn’t just a chase; it was a demolition. AB’s ability to find gaps and hit boundaries will make this one of the most memorable finishing knocks in IPL history.
Virat Kohli’s 113 (50) vs. KXIP (2016)
The Situation:
RCB needed 191 in 15.1 overs to secure a playoff spot. Kohli took it upon himself to make it happen.
The Finish:
His 113 off 50 balls, including 12 fours and eight sixes, powered RCB to victory in just 15.4 overs. It was one of the most dominant chases in IPL history.
Why It Stands Out:
Kohli’s innings were a perfect blend of aggression and precision, proving why he’s one of the greatest T20 batsmen.
Kieron Pollard’s 87 (34) vs. CSK (2021)*
The Situation:
Mumbai Indians (MI) needed 138 off 63 balls when Pollard walked in. Against arch-rivals CSK, the odds were stacked against them.
The Finish:
Pollard’s 87* off 34 balls, featuring eight sixes, helped MI chase down 219 with four balls to spare. His assault on Lungi Ngidi in the death overs was unforgettable.
Why It Stands Out:
This was one of the most brutal counter-attacks in IPL history, proving Pollard’s reputation as one of the best finishers.
Sanju Samson’s 102 (63) vs. RPS (2017)*
The Situation:
Rising Pune Supergiant posted 161, and Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) needed a strong start. Samson single-handedly anchored the chase.
The Finish:
His unbeaten 102 off 63 balls ensured DD won by 97 runs. It was a rare instance of a lone warrior carrying his team to victory.
Why It Stands Out:
Samson’s knock was a blend of elegance and power, showcasing his potential as a future star.
Hardik Pandya’s 91 (34) vs. KKR (2019)*
The Situation:
MI needed 133 off the last 10 overs against KKR. Hardik Pandya turned the game around with a breathtaking display.
The Finish:
His 91* off 34 balls, including nine sixes, took MI to 198/7. Though MI lost, Pandya’s knock was one of the most explosive in IPL history.
Why It Stands Out:
This was pure entertainment—Hardik’s fearless hitting left even the opposition in awe.
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Conclusion
The best finishing knocks in IPL aren’t just about big runs; they’re about timing, nerves, and the ability to thrive under pressure. Whether it’s Dhoni’s calmness, Russell’s brute force, or AB’s genius, these innings remind us why the IPL is the most exciting T20 league in the world.
For more on the greatest IPL moments, check out ESPN Cricinfo’s IPL Hall of Fame—a treasure trove of cricket’s most unforgettable performances.
