The IPL playoffs are known for high-stakes matches, monumental scores, and game-changing performances. Chasing a massive target in a knockout match demands both nerves of steel and extraordinary skill.
Over the years, teams have stepped up under pressure and pulled off some of the most thrilling run chases in cricket history. Here’s a list of the top 5 highest successful run chases in IPL playoff history, starting with the most recent and most remarkable, courtesy of Punjab Kings.
1. PBKS vs MI – 207/5 in 19 Overs (Qualifier 2, 2025)
Punjab Kings pulled off a record-breaking chase against Mumbai Indians in the second qualifier of IPL 2025 at the Narendra Modi Stadium. Chasing 204, PBKS had a shaky start, losing both openers cheaply. But Shreyas Iyer rose to the occasion with a breathtaking innings of 87 off just 41 balls.
He formed a crucial 84-run partnership with Nehal Wadhera, which turned the tide in Punjab’s favour. Iyer’s commanding strokeplay and Wadhera’s support steadied the innings, and Punjab crossed the finish line with six balls to spare, securing a spot in the final and creating history with the highest chase in IPL playoff history.
2. KKR vs KXIP – 200/7 in 19.3 Overs (Final, 2014)
Kolkata Knight Riders faced Kings XI Punjab in a high-pressure IPL final where KXIP posted a daunting total of 199, courtesy of Wriddhiman Saha’s blazing century. KKR lost early wickets but found a hero in Manish Pandey, who smashed a stunning 94 off 50 balls.
His fearless approach kept the scoreboard ticking, and despite a late collapse, Kolkata held their nerve. With just three balls remaining, the Knight Riders sealed their second IPL title, making this chase one of the most iconic in finals history.
3. KKR vs CSK – 192/5 in 19.4 Overs (Final, 2012)
In the 2012 IPL final, Chennai Super Kings put up a strong 190-run total with key contributions from Murali Vijay and Suresh Raina. KKR’s reply began on a shaky note with Gautam Gambhir falling early. But Manvinder Bisla turned the match on its head with an explosive 89 off 48 balls.
Jacques Kallis provided stability in the middle, and the team paced the chase to perfection. With just two balls remaining, KKR emerged victorious, stunning the defending champions and lifting their first IPL trophy.
4. GT vs RR – 191/3 in 19.3 Overs (Qualifier 1, 2022)
Gujarat Titans faced Rajasthan Royals in the first qualifier of IPL 2022, where RR posted a formidable 188-run total. Gujarat never looked rattled during the chase. Shubman Gill and Hardik Pandya set the platform, and it was David Miller who sealed the deal with a flawless 68 not out off 38 balls.
His power-hitting in the death overs ensured GT crossed the line with three balls to spare, securing their place in the final and proving their mettle in their debut season.
5. CSK vs SRH – 181/2 in 18.3 Overs (Final, 2018)
Chennai Super Kings marked their return to the IPL in 2018 with a dominant run, culminating in a powerful performance in the final against Sunrisers Hyderabad. SRH had posted 179, backed by a strong bowling lineup featuring Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Rashid Khan.
But Shane Watson delivered one of the greatest IPL innings, scoring an unbeaten 117 off 57 balls. His century dismantled SRH’s bowling attack and propelled CSK to victory with nine balls remaining, earning them their third IPL title.
Get the latest cricket news here, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more such updates.