The Indian Premier League has given us some of the most electrifying moments in cricket history. While the tournament is known for explosive batting and death-over drama, it’s the finishes that truly make our hearts race and keep us glued to our screens. From nerve-wracking super overs to jaw-dropping last-ball sixes, the IPL has delivered unforgettable memories that fans cherish for years. Let’s take a journey through the five most memorable IPL finishes that have etched themselves into cricket folklore.
1. Mumbai Indians vs Rising Pune Supergiant – IPL 2017 Final
The 2017 IPL final at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi remains one of the most heart-stopping encounters in IPL history. Rising Pune Supergiant, playing in their second year, set a competitive total of 162 runs. Mumbai Indians needed 163 to win their third title, and the match went down to the final over.
With MI needing 13 runs off the last 6 balls, Jasprit Bumrah walked out to face Shardul Thakur. What followed was pure cricket drama. Bumrah smashed a four off the first ball, then took a single. But the real magic happened when Hardik Pandya came in to face the pressure. With two balls remaining and MI needing 3 runs, Hardik dispatched the penultimate delivery for a decisive four, sealing Mumbai’s victory with one ball to spare.
The moment is etched in memory not just for the victory, but for how Hardik Pandya stayed calm under immense pressure when his team needed him most. The entire stadium erupted, and it remains a testament to MI’s ability to deliver in clutch situations.
2. Kolkata Knight Riders vs Sunrisers Hyderabad – IPL 2014 Final
The 2014 IPL final witnessed one of the most dramatic super overs ever played in the tournament’s history. Sunrisers Hyderabad, in their debut year, posted 178 runs. KKR chased brilliantly but couldn’t quite seal the deal in the regular overs, taking the match to a super over.
In the super over, KKR managed to score 13 runs off Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s super over bowling. Sunrisers then came out to chase 14 runs. However, superior bowling from KKR’s Suresh Raina in their super over restricted SRH to just 8 runs, giving KKR a thrilling victory. This was KKR’s second IPL title, and the manner of victory made it even more special.
This finish is particularly memorable because it showcased the importance of nerve and composure in cricket’s most pressurized moments. Every run mattered, every ball was crucial, and KKR’s ability to hold their nerve proved decisive.
3. Delhi Daredevils vs Rajasthan Royals – IPL 2008 (Qualifiers)
While technically not a final, the 2008 qualifier between Delhi Daredevils and Rajasthan Royals deserves a spot on this list for its sheer dramatic value. Rajasthan Royals, the inaugural IPL champions, were defending a modest total of 154 runs.
Delhi seemed well-positioned in their chase, but Rajasthan’s bowlers fought back. As the match entered its final over, Delhi needed just 6 runs. However, an exceptional bowling performance restricted Delhi, and the match came down to the last ball. Delhi’s batsman managed just the runs needed to win, but RR’s bowlers’ death bowling was extraordinary. The tension in that final over was palpable, with every run feeling like a victory in itself.
This match exemplified why the IPL became an instant sensation—the unpredictability, the drama, and the roller-coaster emotions were unmatched in cricket at that time.
4. Mumbai Indians vs Royal Challengers Bangalore – IPL 2015 Final
The 2015 IPL final saw Mumbai Indians chase down a target of 185 runs set by Royal Challengers Bangalore in a high-scoring thriller. With a powerful RCB attack led by Yuzvendra Chahal and other pace bowlers, the task seemed daunting for MI.
However, Mumbai’s middle-order brilliance, particularly contributions from Rohit Sharma and Corey Anderson, kept them in the hunt. The final overs were absolute nail-biters, with MI needing to score briskly but also preserve wickets. In the end, MI’s composure and experience shone through as they crossed the finish line with a few balls to spare.
What made this finish memorable was the quality of cricket on display—both teams played attacking cricket, bowlers delivered under pressure, and the result could have gone either way until the very end.
5. Chennai Super Kings vs Sunrisers Hyderabad – IPL 2018 Qualifier 2
The 2018 Qualifier 2 between Chennai Super Kings and Sunrisers Hyderabad was a masterclass in chase management and death-over batting. SRH set a competitive total of 139 runs in what was a low-scoring encounter at the Feroz Shah Kotla.
CSK’s chase was built on steady accumulation rather than aggressive batting. MS Dhoni, in his signature style, held one end down and ensured there were regular partnerships. The match came to the wire with CSK needing runs off the final overs. Dhoni’s experience proved invaluable as he picked the right balls to attack and the right bowlers to farm the strike against.
In the final over, with nerves at their peak, CSK’s batsmen showed remarkable composure to get the required runs. This victory sent CSK to the final, where they eventually won the title. The finish was memorable not for explosive hitting but for intelligent cricket and veteran expertise.
What Makes These Finishes So Special?
These five finishes represent the essence of what makes IPL cricket so compelling. Whether it’s the last-ball drama, the super over excitement, or the death-over tension, each finish tells a story of courage, skill, and nerves of steel. Players have to make split-second decisions under immense pressure, and it’s in these moments that legends are born.
For comprehensive coverage and analysis of IPL matches and memorable moments, CricketAura.com provides detailed insights, statistics, and expert commentary that helps fans understand the nuances of these thrilling encounters.
FAQ Section
Which IPL final had the most runs scored?
The 2016 IPL final between MI and RPS saw a high-scoring encounter with MI posting 168 runs and eventually winning. However, several finals have had totals exceeding 150, making run-scoring competitions fierce in IPL finals.
How many IPL finals have gone to super overs?
As of 2026, at least two IPL finals have been decided through super overs, with the 2014 final being the most notable one. Super overs add an extra dimension of drama and have become a regular feature in IPL cricket.
Who has won the most IPL titles?
Mumbai Indians have won the most IPL titles, with five championship victories. Their consistent performance in crucial moments and knack for winning tight finishes make them the most successful team in IPL history.
Have you witnessed any of these finishes live or on screen? Which IPL finish do you find most memorable? Share your thoughts and favorite moments in the comments below! Let’s celebrate the drama, excitement, and excellence that the IPL brings to world cricket.
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