Man of the Match awardees in IPL finals

2011 – Murali Vijay (Chennai Super Kings)

Speaking of one-sided affairs, the 2011 IPL final was as one sided as it ever got. The Chennai Super Kings successfully defended a tall total of 205, and in turn defended their title as well. An elegant Murali Vijay starred in the final, falling agonisingly short of a brilliant hundred that would have been the cherry on the icing.

Electing to bat first, CSK let loose of Mr Cricket along with Vijay. The duo took the Royal Challengers Bangalore bowlers to the cleaners, amassing 159 for the opening wicket in less than 15 overs. Mike Hussey was finally dismissed for a well-made 63, but Vijay’s onslaught continued.

He hammered his way to 95 with 4 fours and 6 biggies that sailed into the stands. In reply, RCB never looked like they were in the chase, as CSK marched to their second title. Vijay, however, was the man of the moment, earning the Player of the Match award for his sizzling knock of 95.