In Part 2 of TimesofIndia.com’s IPL throwback series, we rewind to five more unforgettable moments from 2017 to 2024 — the ones that made us jump, scream, tear up, and most of all, remember why we fell in love with the IPL in the first place.
1. 2023 Final: Ravindra Jadeja’s Last-Over Heroics
When Chennai Super Kings met Gujarat Titans in the IPL 2023 Final, few could’ve predicted the cinematic finish that would unfold. With 13 needed off the last over and death-over specialist Mohit Sharma bowling, and CSK needing a near-miracle after rain disrupted the chase, it was down to Ravindra Jadeja — Mr. Calm in Chaos.
With 10 runs needed off the last 2 balls, Jadeja struck a six over long-on followed by a whip past fine leg for four, sealing the title for CSK in style. MS Dhoni, in what many thought would be his final IPL match, lifted his fifth trophy. The sight of Dhoni lifting Jadeja in pure joy — unforgettable. A generational moment.
2. 2019 Final: Mumbai vs Chennai — One Run, One Title
Arguably the closest final in IPL history, the 2019 face-off between Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) went right down to the last ball.
With CSK needing 2 runs off the final delivery, Lasith Malinga — past his prime but never without magic — produced a stunning slower delivery that trapped Shardul Thakur LBW. MI won by just 1 run, clinching their fourth title and sparking massive celebrations at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.
It was IPL theatre at its peak. Edge-of-the-seat stuff. Two titans, one run, and a million heartbeats.
3. 2022: Gujarat Titans’ Dream Debut Season
Expansion teams don’t usually take over tournaments in their debut season. But Gujarat Titans, under the leadership of Hardik Pandya, rewrote that script with swagger in 2022.
After dominating the group stage, they stormed into the final and defeated Rajasthan Royals in front of a packed Narendra Modi Stadium. The moment Pandya dismissed Jos Buttler and later contributed with the bat was a leadership masterclass.
The title was more than a win — it was a statement. A team with no legacy, built on underdogs, scripting a glorious first chapter.
READ ALSO: IPL Throwback: 5 memorable moments from 2008 to 2016 – Part 1
4. 2018: The Return of CSK — From Suspension to Champions
Two years in the wilderness. A team branded as “Dad’s Army.” But Chennai Super Kings’ 2018 comeback remains one of the most emotional and inspirational stories in IPL history.
Led by MS Dhoni, a rejuvenated CSK defied critics, chasing down targets with grace and fire. The final against Sunrisers Hyderabad saw Shane Watson score an unbeaten 117 off 57 balls, taking CSK home.
The team’s return wasn’t just a sporting story — it was redemption. A phoenix rising. And the Dhoni-Watson hug? Instant classic.
5. 2024: Rinku Singh’s Five Sixes
While the IPL is known for its superstars, every now and then, it births a legend from the shadows. Enter Rinku Singh, who pulled off the unthinkable in IPL 2024.
Chasing a steep target, KKR needed 28 off the last 5 balls against Gujarat Titans. Rinku, calm as a monk and brutal as a storm, smashed 5 consecutive sixes off Yash Dayal.
The world watched in disbelief. KKR players stormed the field. And Rinku — humble, quiet, and beaming — became a national sensation overnight. From obscurity to cult status, this was pure IPL magic.
The IPL isn’t just about runs or wickets—it’s about moments. Moments that define careers, shape legacies, and live rent-free in our heads. From Ravindra Jadeja’s icy nerves to Rinku Singh’s audacity, the league keeps evolving while delivering unforgettable drama.
As we wrap up Part 2 of our IPL throwback, one thing’s certain: the best moments are often the ones no one sees coming. And that’s what makes the IPL the juggernaut it is.
Until next season, let the replays roll.
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