Each chase had its own unique narrative, its own hero rising to the occasion
The magic of the IPL lies not just in the power-hitting and extravagant sixes but also in the grit and determination displayed during improbable chases. Scores that seem insurmountable are tackled with audacious belief, and individual brilliance shines through, etching its name in IPL folklore.
Today, we celebrate those heroes who single-handedly turned the tide, rewriting narratives and carving their names into the record books with the highest individual scores in successful IPL chases.
The inaugural edition of the IPL witnessed the birth of many legends, and Sri Lanka's swashbuckling southpaw, Sanath Jayasuriya, was no exception. Facing a modest target of 157 set by CSK, the Mumbai Indians found themselves with a shaky start. Enter Jayasuriya, a man who redefined T20 batting with his aggressive strokeplay.
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Jayasuriya at his best
He tore into the CSK bowling attack, launching into a whirlwind 48-ball 114*, laced with nine fours and a staggering 11 sixes. His opening partnership with Sachin Tendulkar (who played a supporting role with just 12 runs) laid the foundation for a dominant victory, achieved with more than six overs to spare.
The 2018 IPL final witnessed a masterclass in redemption by Australian all-rounder Shane Watson. Despite enduring a lean patch throughout the season, MS Dhoni, the CSK captain, placed his faith in Watson. Chasing a competitive total of 178 set by Hyderabad, Watson initially struggled against the potent bowling of Bhuvneshwar Kumar.
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This innings helps CSK to clinch the title
However, a change in gears after the sixth over saw him transform into an unstoppable force. He launched a brutal assault on the bowling, smashing boundaries at will. His unbeaten 117 off just 57 deliveries, decorated with 11 fours and 8 sixes, silenced his doubters and propelled CSK to their third IPL title.
Virender Sehwag, a batsman known for his audacious strokeplay, etched his name into IPL history with a truly remarkable knock in 2011. Chasing a target of 176 set by the Deccan Chargers, Sehwag single-handedly dismantled their bowling attack. His innings were a masterclass in sheer dominance. He treated the bowlers with disdain, dispatching them to all corners of the ground.
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Viru smashing the ball
His 56-ball knock of 119 included 13 fours and six sixes, dwarfing the contributions of his teammates (the second-highest score was just 17). The Chargers, despite bowling well to the other batsmen, were left helpless against Sehwag's onslaught. Delhi Daredevils secured a comfortable four-wicket victory with an over to spare, thanks to this unforgettable innings by Sehwag.
The 2011 season saw the emergence of an unlikely hero, Paul Valthaty. Facing a daunting target of 189 set by CSK, Kings XI Punjab found themselves needing a miracle. Enter Valthaty, who walked out to the crease with a fearless attitude. He played his strokes with elegance and precision, peppering his innings with 19 fours and two sixes.
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The unsung hero of Punjab
His knock of 120* off just 63 deliveries showcased exceptional timing and a deep understanding of the format. He relied on traditional cricketing shots, dismantling the CSK bowling attack with a sense of calmness amidst the pressure. Punjab chased down the target with five deliveries to spare, scripting a historic victory and announcing Valthaty's arrival on the big stage.
The latest addition to this prestigious list belongs to Marcus Stoinis, the Australian powerhouse who rewrote the record books in the 2024 IPL season. Chasing a challenging 211 set by CSK on a tricky Chepauk wicket, the Lucknow Super Giants found themselves in a precarious position after losing early wickets. However, Stoinis rose to the occasion, playing a knock of staggering proportions. He took his time initially, navigating the tricky period in the middle overs.
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13-year-old record, one Marcus Stoinis
But with the target slipping away, he shifted gears, launching a brutal assault alongside Nicholas Pooran. His innings of 124* off just 63 deliveries—the highest individual score in a successful IPL chase—were a masterpiece of controlled aggression.
He smashed boundaries with disdain, including a six-and-three-four in the final over to seal a remarkable victory for LSG. This knock by Stoinis not only secured a thrilling win for his team but also cemented his place among the IPL's most prolific run-chasers.
