"Top 5 IPL Matches That Changed the Course of the Tournament"

Top 5 IPL Matches That Changed the Course of the Tournament

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has never been just about cricket—it's a rollercoaster of emotions, edge-of-the-seat thrillers, and unforgettable moments. But every season, there are a few games that go beyond the scoreboard. They shift momentum, break hearts, spark comebacks, and change the entire course of the tournament.

Let’s revisit the Top 5 IPL matches that didn’t just entertain—they redefined the season and left an indelible mark on cricket fans around the world.

1. Mumbai Indians vs Rajasthan Royals (2020) – The Pandya Storm

This match had it all: pressure, playoff stakes, and raw power. The Mumbai Indians, struggling with form, needed a win to stay alive. Enter Hardik Pandya, who smashed a game-changing 60 off just 21 balls. His explosive innings took Mumbai to an improbable 195, and RR couldn’t recover.

Why it changed the season:

Mumbai’s win catapulted them into form, leading them all the way to the finals. For RR, this loss knocked the wind out of their campaign. It was a true turning point in IPL 2020.

2. RCB vs LSG (2023) – Last-Ball Thriller That Flipped the Narrative

This was more than just a cricket match—it was a clash of reputations. RCB had a strong season, but LSG, led by KL Rahul, chased down 213 in the final over. With Nicholas Pooran playing one of the fastest fifties of the season, LSG silenced critics and pushed themselves into serious playoff contention.

Why it changed the season:

RCB, who were looking dominant, lost momentum after this, while LSG rode the wave of belief all the way into the final stages. The match reshaped both teams’ paths dramatically.

3. Chennai Super Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders (2018 Final) – The Dhoni Masterclass

While technically a final, this CSK vs KKR battle is remembered not just for its title implications but for how it reinstated CSK as the league’s giants after a two-year hiatus. Shane Watson’s unbeaten 117 was a legendary knock under pressure.

Why it changed the season:

CSK’s title win became a statement comeback, and it changed how teams approached veteran players in later seasons. This match reshaped team strategies across the league.

4. Punjab Kings vs Delhi Capitals (2022) – A Low-Scoring Shocker

Not all game-changers are high-scoring thrillers. This match, where Delhi defended a modest 159, turned the table on the playoffs. With Kuldeep Yadav’s spell and stunning fielding performances, DC stole a crucial win.

Why it changed the season:

PBKS’s defeat knocked them out of the playoff race, while DC stayed in the hunt till the final week. This one match reshaped the qualification dynamics for three different teams.

5. Rajasthan Royals vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (2023) – The Last-Ball Heist

Who could forget this insane finish? Needing 17 off the last over, Abdul Samad hit a six on a no-ball after being caught—and then finished it with another six. SRH pulled off the most dramatic win of the season.

why it changed the season:

RR were comfortably in the top four before this. After this shocking loss, they crumbled under pressure and missed out on qualification. It was a domino-effect match—one ball changed everything.

One Match, One Moment, One Miracle

In a tournament as fast-paced as the IPL, momentum is everything. One big win or a crushing defeat can turn dreams into dust—or spark a fairytale comeback. These Top 5 IPL matches that changed the course of the tournament are proof that cricket is not just about runs and wickets—it's about timing, temperament, and turning points.

Whether you're a fan of numbers or narratives, these games are a reminder of why we love the IPL—anything can happen, and usually does.

To get the latest Updates, Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter & Pinterest and Instagram and Keep visiting us for Latest News Online.