The Best Matches of IPL 2024: A Season to Remember
The IPL 2024 season was marked by 84 matches, most of which seemed one-sided, largely due to the Impact Player Rule. This rule often gave an overwhelming advantage to one team, leading to lopsided contests. Additionally, exceptional batting performances played a significant role in determining the outcomes.
Despite the dominance of certain teams, there were three matches that stood out as the best of the season, making IPL 2024 memorable not just for the final, but for these thrilling encounters.
1. Punjab vs Kolkata: A Run Fest Extravaganza
One of the most exhilarating matches was between Punjab Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders. Kolkata, batting first, posted an imposing total of 261 runs, a score that seemed insurmountable. However, Punjab took on the challenge with a historic intent.
Uncapped young player Prabhsimran Kaur set the stage with a blistering 53 runs off 20 balls, giving Punjab a flying start. Following her lead, Jonny Bairstow scored a century off 46 balls, marking his return to form.
Shashak Singh’s explosive 68 runs off 28 balls further bolstered the chase. These powerful batting performances nullified the impressive efforts of Kolkata’s openers, leading Punjab to a remarkable victory.
2. Kolkata vs Rajasthan: A Last-Over Thriller
Another nail-biting contest involved Kolkata Knight Riders again, this time against Rajasthan Royals. Batting first at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, powered by Sunil Narine’s maiden IPL century, put up 223 runs on the board.
Rajasthan’s hero for the day was Jos Buttler. Despite a solid start, Rajasthan’s innings faltered in the middle overs, leaving them needing 96 runs from the last six overs. Buttler, who had scored only 50 runs off the first 36 balls, shifted gears dramatically.
He unleashed a flurry of boundaries, sparing no Kolkata bowler. With just two wickets in hand, Rajasthan managed to chase down the daunting total on the last ball, a feat that seemed almost impossible at one point.
3. Chennai vs Lucknow: A Chepauk Classic
The top spot goes to the match between Chennai Super Kings and Lucknow Super Giants at the Chepauk stadium. This game featured one of the finest innings of IPL 2024 by Marcus Stoinis. Chennai, thanks to a century from Ruturaj Gaikwad and a quickfire 66 from Shivam Dube, set a target of 210 runs.
Lucknow’s chase started poorly, losing two wickets in the first five overs. However, Stoinis, in sublime form, anchored the innings. His unbeaten 124 runs off 63 balls was a masterclass in power and timing. Supported ably by Nicholas Pooran and Deepak Hooda, Stoinis brought Lucknow to the brink of victory.
Needing 17 runs off the final over against Chennai’s best bowler, Mustafizur Rahman, Stoinis finished the game in just three balls, silencing the Chepauk crowd. This victory was a significant achievement for Lucknow, defeating Chennai in their own fortress.
These three matches encapsulated the thrill and excitement of IPL 2024. From record chases to last-ball finishes, they showcased the best of T20 cricket. While the season had its share of one-sided games, these encounters ensured that IPL 2024 will be remembered for its high-octane drama and unforgettable performances.
