Rising to the Occasion: Top 5 IPL Final Innings That Inspired Millions

The IPL final is cricket’s grandest stage, where legends are forged and nerves are tested. Over 17 seasons, a handful of batters have delivered unforgettable performances, single-handedly outshining their opposition and etching their names in IPL folklore. Here’s a look at the top five highest individual scores in IPL finals, showcasing the players who rose above the rest when it mattered most.

 

Shane Watson (CSK, 2018) – 117 vs SRH:* Watson’s unbeaten 117 off 57 balls remains the highest individual score in an IPL final. His knock, featuring 11 fours and 8 sixes, powered Chennai Super Kings to a title win in a high-pressure chase, earning him the Player of the Match award.

 

Wriddhiman Saha (KXIP, 2014) – 115 vs KKR:* Saha became the first player to score a century in an IPL final, smashing an unbeaten 115 off 55 balls. Despite his heroics, Kings XI Punjab narrowly lost to Kolkata Knight Riders in a thriller.

 

Sai Sudharsan (GT, 2023) – 96 vs CSK: The young left-hander stunned everyone with a blistering 96 off 47 balls, the highest by an uncapped player in a final. His innings helped Gujarat Titans post a massive total, though CSK clinched the title in a dramatic finish.

 

Murali Vijay (CSK, 2011) – 95 vs RCB: Vijay’s explosive 95 off 52 balls set the tone for CSK’s dominant win over Royal Challengers Bangalore, helping them secure back-to-back titles.

 

Manish Pandey (KKR, 2014) – 94 vs KXIP: Pandey’s 94 off 50 balls was the backbone of KKR’s successful chase of 200, sealing their second IPL crown in a high-octane contest.

 

These epic knocks not only defined finals but also showcased the fearless spirit of IPL’s best batters.

 

Sources: Sporting News, Times of India, Times Now