The Indian Premier League has given cricket fans some of the most dramatic, high-scoring, and heart-stopping matches in T20 history. From last-ball finishes to record-breaking chases, the IPL has consistently delivered unforgettable moments.
In this evergreen article, we rank the Top 10 Best IPL Matches of All Time based on drama, match situation, individual brilliance, and overall impact on IPL history.
1. MI vs CSK – IPL Final 2019 (Last-Ball Classic)
The 2019 IPL Final between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings is widely regarded as the greatest IPL match ever. Defending 149, MI held their nerve as Lasith Malinga bowled a perfect final delivery to seal a 1-run win.
- Result: MI won by 1 run
- Highlight: Malinga’s last-ball yorker
- Why It’s Legendary: Closest IPL final ever
2. RR vs KXIP – IPL 2020 (Double Super Over Thriller)
One match, two Super Overs! Rajasthan Royals and Kings XI Punjab produced a historic encounter in Dubai.
- Result: Punjab won in second Super Over
- Highlight: Unprecedented double Super Over
- Why It’s Legendary: First double Super Over in IPL
3. CSK vs RCB – IPL 2018 (Dhoni’s 70* Masterclass)
Chasing 206, MS Dhoni played one of the greatest IPL knocks ever, smashing 70* off 34 balls to finish the match in style.
- Result: CSK won by 5 wickets
- Highlight: Dhoni’s last-over assault
- Why It’s Legendary: Vintage finishing at its best
4. MI vs RR – IPL 2014 (Adrenaline-Filled Qualification Drama)
Mumbai Indians needed to chase 190 in just 14.3 overs to qualify for playoffs. Corey Anderson and Aditya Tare delivered in stunning fashion.
- Result: MI qualified dramatically
- Highlight: Tare’s last-ball six
- Why It’s Legendary: Qualification secured on net run rate edge
5. KKR vs RCB – IPL 2019 (Russell Storm)
Andre Russell demolished RCB’s bowling attack with a jaw-dropping 48 off 13 balls in a breathtaking chase.
- Result: KKR won by 5 wickets
- Highlight: Russell’s late-overs carnage
- Why It’s Legendary: One of the most destructive cameos ever
6. SRH vs RCB – IPL 2016 Final
The 2016 final saw Sunrisers Hyderabad defend 208 against a powerful RCB lineup despite a heroic effort from Virat Kohli.
- Result: SRH won by 8 runs
- Highlight: Ben Cutting’s all-round brilliance
- Why It’s Legendary: High-pressure final with elite performances
7. RR vs DC – IPL 2008 (Warne’s Fairytale Final)
The inaugural IPL season ended with Shane Warne leading Rajasthan Royals to a historic title win.
- Result: RR won by 3 wickets
- Highlight: Yusuf Pathan’s explosive innings
- Why It’s Legendary: Underdog story completed
8. CSK vs MI – IPL 2013 (Pollard’s Stunning Counterattack)
Kieron Pollard’s brutal assault stunned Chennai Super Kings in a high-scoring thriller.
- Result: MI won by 9 runs
- Highlight: Pollard’s power-hitting display
- Why It’s Legendary: Momentum swing masterclass
9. PBKS vs KKR – IPL 2024 (Record-Breaking Chase)
Punjab Kings pulled off one of the highest successful run chases in T20 history, stunning Kolkata Knight Riders.
- Result: PBKS chased 260+
- Highlight: Historic highest chase
- Why It’s Legendary: Redefined T20 chasing limits
10. RCB vs GL – IPL 2016 (ABD & Kohli Partnership Show)
Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers put on a record-breaking partnership that left fans speechless.
- Result: RCB posted 248/3
- Highlight: 229-run partnership
- Why It’s Legendary: One of the greatest batting displays in IPL
What Makes an IPL Match Truly Great?
- Last-over finishes
- Individual brilliance
- High-pressure knockout scenarios
- Record-breaking performances
- Emotional fan moments
Final Thoughts
The IPL continues to redefine T20 cricket with every season. These matches are not just games — they are unforgettable stories of pressure, passion, and performance.
As the league grows, new classics will surely join this list. Until then, these 10 encounters remain etched in IPL folklore.
