Top of the table and tough to beat — Recalling five iconic IPL campaigns that dominated the league like no other
Every IPL season tells its own story. Some are based on sixes and drama, while others revolve around grit and strategy. However, few moments shine brighter than when a team reaches the magical number—22 points—in the league stage. It doesn't occur frequently, but when it does, it's a testament to sheer dominance. Here are five teams that achieved this, topping the table with flair, fire, and fabulous cricket.
The inaugural IPL was marked by chaos, charm, and a Cinderella story. Rajasthan Royals, captained by the late Shane Warne, were not the favourites. However, they converted doubters into believers. They won 11 of their 14 matches, amassing 22 points and finishing at the top. Their net run rate? A commendable +0.632. What stood out was their rhythm—six consecutive wins and only three losses throughout the entire group stage. Warne, the mentor-captain, provided Indian fans with a masterclass in man-management. RR did not merely top the table; they lifted the trophy as well. The underdogs roared the loudest that year.
They weren't called Capitals back then. In 2012, the Delhi Daredevils appeared to be a team reborn. Virender Sehwag led from the front, supported by speedster Morne Morkel, who claimed the Purple Cap with 25 wickets. Delhi won 11 out of 16 matches, finishing with 22 points and a net run rate of +0.617. However, their dream hit a wall in the playoffs. Firstly, KKR got the better of them in Qualifier 1. Then, Chennai crushed them with a 233-run onslaught. Delhi's dream run fizzled before the final, but their league stage brilliance remains one of the most impressive in IPL history.
Few teams exhibit consistency like the Chennai Super Kings. In 2013, they were at it once more. CSK stormed through the group stage with 11 wins in 16 matches, finishing at the top of the table with 22 points and a +0.530 NRR. They put together seven consecutive victories, steamrolling past their opponents. That year marked their fifth final in six seasons. However, in the title clash, Mumbai Indians turned the tables. CSK stumbled while chasing a modest 149 and came up short. Still, their league performance that year was classic CSK—cool, calculated, and clinical.
The same season saw the Mumbai Indians carve their name into history. The team found a fresh rhythm under their newly crowned captain, Rohit Sharma. MI also achieved 11 wins and five losses, accumulating 22 points with a +0.441 NRR. Although they finished second in the league, it was their performance in the final that defined their year. After a challenging start in the summit clash, Kieron Pollard's 60 off 32 helped MI post a total of 148. Subsequently, their bowlers dismantled CSK, securing a 23-run victory. It was Mumbai's first title— a spark that ignited a dynasty.
In 2014, it was Kings XI Punjab's turn to dazzle. Riding the momentum from 2013, they came out swinging. They began with five straight wins in the UAE and maintained their momentum on Indian soil. By the end of the league stage, now called Punjab Kings (PBKS), they had won 11 of their 14 matches, boasting the best net run rate of +0.968 among all teams. Their fearless brand of cricket earned them a spot in the final. Sehwag's 122 in Qualifier 2 was a treat, and Saha's unbeaten 115 in the final set up a big score. However, Manish Pandey's 94 for KKR spoiled their party. Still, that 2014 Punjab side was unforgettable.
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