Indian Premier League is one tournament wherein the competitive level increases every season. Year on year, we see unthinkable things being accomplished in the league. Especially with regards to the list of highest targets chased down in IPL, we see new inclusions every campaign.
The fearless approach adopted by almost every franchise is one of the main reasons for this to be happening. Unlike in the previous era when conserving wickets and then going for the target at the end was the only path, these days, batsmen start hitting right from the word go. On that note, in this article, we take a look at the highest targets chased down in IPL history so far.
4) Delhi Capitals – 209 vs Gujarat Lions, 2017
Back in 2017, Delhi Capitals were slowly setting up a strong team. It is during that transition period that they pulled off this mammoth chase. The Delhi boys chased down a target of over 200 runs in less than 18 overs that day.
It was a Rishabh Pant special that was the highlight. Batting at No.3, he scored 97 runs from 43 balls and helped his side close the game. Sanju Samson also batted well that match.
3) Rajasthan Royals – 215 vs Deccan Chargers, 2008
We have to go back to 2008 for the third most successful run-chase in IPL history. Courtesy of a freak knock by Andrew Symonds, Deccan Chargers set up a total of 214 on the board. The Aussie scored 117 runs from 53 deliveries while batting at No.4 in that game.
Rajasthan Royals had a top-heavy batting line-up, and this target was a little hard. However, the then underdogs put on a strong performance. Despite wickets falling at consistent intervals, the eventual champions kept themselves going in the game. Graeme Smith and Shane Watson were in good form, and thanks to a late burst by Shane Warne, RR won the encounter.
2) Mumbai Indians – 219 vs Chennai Super Kings, 2021
Whenever Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings, a firecracker of a game is certain to follow. These two heavyweights met in IPL 2021, and this game finds itself at No.2 in the list of highest targets chased down in IPL.
First innings, Ambati Rayudu took on the MI bowlers with a brilliant knock of 72 runs from just 27 deliveries. Although Mumbai started well, they lost a few wickets and looked to be in a vulnerable space. However, Kieron Pollard had other ideas. Using the shorter boundary distance to advantage, the big West Indian was in top form that day. He made 87 runs from 34 balls and ensured that the Mumbai squad ended up on the winning side.
1) Rajasthan Royals – 224 vs Punjab Kings, 2020
It was one of the most freakish games in the history of the competition. The Punjab unit was in good batting form in IPL 2020 and aided by an excellent opening partnership, the KL Rahul-led squad put up a target of 224 on the board. Although it was at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, where the boundaries are shorter, a starting required rate of around 11 was tough for any batting line-up.
The matters became worse when Rahul Tewatia got stuck at the crease. He was not at all able to time the ball and could not get out, too. While everyone thought RR would lose, in one of the most memorable turnarounds in IPL History, Rajasthan won the game. Blasting 53 of 31 balls, including an over that involved five sixes, Rahul Tewatia helped RR cross the line comfortably at the end.
