The Indian Premier League (IPL) has been a breeding ground for thrilling matches, incredible performances, and record-breaking scores. Since its inception in 2008, teams and players have pushed the boundaries of T20 cricket, making it a spectacle for millions of fans worldwide.
Over the years, we have witnessed some breath-taking batting displays that have resulted in mammoth team totals and remarkable individual scores.
In this blog, we’ll dive deep into the highest scores in IPL history, exploring the biggest team totals, individual masterclasses, and record-breaking powerplays that have left cricket fans in awe.
Record-breaking team totals in IPL history
The IPL has seen some jaw-dropping team totals over the years, with franchises consistently raising the bar for high-scoring games. As pitches become more batting-friendly and power-hitters dominate the game, we have witnessed several teams crossing the 250-run mark, leaving bowlers clueless.
1. Sunrisers Hyderabad’s 287/3 – Highest team score in IPL
In IPL 2024, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) smashed an all-time record by posting a colossal 287/3 against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). This milestone surpassed all previous highest team scores in IPL history, solidifying SRH’s reputation as one of the most explosive batting sides. Led by powerful hitting and exceptional stroke play, SRH redefined aggressive batting in T20 cricket.
2. RCB’s 263/5 – The previous benchmark
Before SRH’s record-breaking feat, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) held the record for the highest score in IPL. RCB posted 263/5 against Pune Warriors India in IPL 2013, thanks to an unbeaten 175 by Chris Gayle, a knock that remains etched in every IPL fan’s memory.
3. Kolkata Knight Riders’ 272/7 – A power-packed innings
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) joined the high-score frenzy in IPL 2024, hammering 272/7 against Delhi Capitals (DC). Their remarkable innings included fireworks from Andre Russell and Sunil Narine, propelling them to one of the highest scores in IPL history.
Top individual scores in IPL history
While team totals often steal the limelight, individual performances have also left a lasting impact on the IPL. From blistering centuries to unforgettable innings, players have taken center stage with their phenomenal batting prowess.
1. Chris Gayle’s 175 – The highest individual score in IPL*
Chris Gayle’s unbeaten 175 off just 66 balls for RCB against Pune Warriors India in IPL 2013 remains the highest individual score in IPL history. His innings included 13 fours and 17 sixes, showcasing his ability to destroy any bowling attack on his day.
2. Brendon McCullum’s 158 – A historic IPL opener*
The IPL’s opening match in 2008 saw Brendon McCullum announce the arrival of the league with a breathtaking 158* off 73 balls for KKR against RCB. His innings set the tone for the entertainment that IPL promised and has delivered ever since.
3. Quinton de Kock’s 140 – A masterclass in IPL 2022*
Quinton de Kock’s unbeaten 140 for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) against KKR in IPL 2022 was another unforgettable knock. His innings guided LSG to a massive total and left the opposition in tatters.
Highest powerplay scores in IPL
The first six overs in T20 cricket can change the course of the game. IPL teams have often capitalized on the powerplay, laying the foundation for massive totals.
1. KKR’s 105/0 in 2024 – Highest powerplay score in IPL history
In IPL 2024, KKR blazed their way to 105/0 in the powerplay against Royal Challengers Bangalore, setting a new benchmark for the highest powerplay score in IPL history. Their openers took full advantage of the fielding restrictions, smashing boundaries at will.
2. CSK’s 100/2 vs KXIP in 2014
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) also left their mark with a scintillating 100/2 in the powerplay against Kings XI Punjab in IPL 2014, with Suresh Raina leading the charge.
3. SRH’s 91/1 in 2023
Sunrisers Hyderabad registered 91/1 in the powerplay against Delhi Capitals in IPL 2023, showcasing their aggressive intent early on.
Highest team scores by season
Each IPL season brings a new set of thrilling high-scoring matches. Teams have pushed boundaries year after year, making high scores a regular feature of the league.
1. IPL 2023 highlights
- LSG’s 257/5 vs. Punjab Kings: Lucknow Super Giants posted one of the highest scores in IPL 2023 with a scintillating 257/5 against Punjab Kings
- GT’s 233/3 vs. MI: Gujarat Titans showcased their batting depth with a commanding 233/3 against Mumbai Indians
2. IPL 2024 highlights
- SRH’s 287/3 vs. RCB: SRH’s record-breaking innings in IPL 2024 remains the highest team score in IPL history
- KKR’s 272/7 vs. DC: KKR’s explosive performance against DC further highlighted the batting firepower of the 2024 season
Stadiums that witnessed historic scores
Some IPL stadiums have been witness to unforgettable high-scoring encounters. The atmosphere, pitch conditions, and crowd support often play a significant role in enabling these record-breaking performances.
1. Chinnaswamy Stadium – The batting paradise
Home to RCB, the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru has seen numerous high-scoring encounters. With shorter boundaries and a flat pitch, it remains a nightmare for bowlers and a delight for fans.
2. Eden Gardens – A historic venue
Eden Gardens in Kolkata, known for its electric atmosphere, has been the site of several record-breaking performances. KKR’s home ground continues to witness some of the highest team scores in IPL.
3. Wankhede Stadium – The fortress of Mumbai Indians
The Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai has seen teams regularly breach the 200-run mark, with its batting-friendly pitch and shorter boundaries creating a perfect platform for high scores.
Memorable highest scores by IPL teams
Over the years, each IPL team has had its moment of glory by posting massive scores. Let’s take a quick look at some of the highest scores by individual teams.
- RCB’s highest score in IPL – 263/5 against Pune Warriors in 2013
- CSK’s highest score in IPL – 246/5 against Rajasthan Royals in 2010
- MI’s highest score in IPL – 223/6 against Kings XI Punjab in 2017
- SRH’s highest score in IPL – 287/3 against RCB in 2024
- KKR’s highest score in IPL – 272/7 against DC in 2024
Conclusion: The evolution of high scores in IPL
The IPL has evolved into a powerhouse of high-scoring thrillers, with teams consistently pushing the boundaries of what’s achievable in T20 cricket. From jaw-dropping team totals to individual masterclasses, the league has witnessed it all.
As the IPL progresses, it’s safe to say that the records will continue to tumble, and the fans will be treated to more fireworks, making the league an unmissable spectacle.
The future holds the promise of even bigger totals, and with T20 cricket evolving every season, the IPL remains the ultimate destination for thrilling, high-scoring encounters.
