IPL 2021: Top 5 best matches in the history of the tournament
The tournament has been a witness to several jaw-dropping clashes over the years.
2. Punjab Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders, Bengaluru, 2014 Final
Punjab Kings, then Kings XI Punjab, came into the final having lost the last two encounters against Kolkata Knight Riders. One of those was the first qualifier in the playoffs which was played less than a week ago. But, Punjab brought their best game for the final. It was Kolkata-origin Wriddhiman Saha, who played an absolute gem of a knock of 115 runs from 55 balls. He was equally supported by Manan Vohra who racked up 67 runs from 52 balls.
Punjab finished at 199 for 4. KKR lost Robbie Uthappa, the orange cap holder that season, early in the innings. But Manish Pandey, a Bengaluru local, played the innings of his life. However, he got out for 94 runs off 50 balls, leaving KKR at 179 for 6. Needing 21 runs in three overs, he had set the match but not finished.
Then, the drama and pressure of the final. Piyush Chawla hit a six off Mitchell Johnson in the penultimate over to bring KKR on the brink of a win. He then smashed the third ball of a final over to seal the victory for his side. With this win, Kolkata lifted the trophy for the second time and it was also the last time they won the match.
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