The Indian Premier League (IPL) has never failed to serve up high-stakes drama, especially when it comes to the finals. The culmination of weeks of intense competition, the IPL final is where champions are crowned, legends are born, and hearts are broken. While every final carries its own weight, some have stood out for their tension, performances, and unforgettable moments. Here's a look at the best IPL finals ranked purely for their entertainment, intensity, and legacy.

1. 2019 – Mumbai Indians vs Chennai Super Kings

This final was everything a cricket fan could ask for—two heavyweights, a packed stadium, and a match that went down to the final ball. Mumbai Indians, defending a modest 149, showed remarkable discipline. With 2 needed off the last ball, Lasith Malinga delivered a perfect slower yorker to trap Shardul Thakur LBW and seal a one-run win. It was a heart-stopper, and the narrowest margin of victory in an IPL final, making it the greatest of them all.

2. 2016 – Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Royal Challengers Bangalore

A final that had the makings of a modern classic. Sunrisers Hyderabad, under David Warner, put up a solid 208 on the board. But when Chris Gayle and Virat Kohli came out all guns blazing, the chase seemed inevitable. However, SRH’s bowlers held their nerves in the death overs, snatching victory from the jaws of defeat. The mix of explosive batting and tense bowling made this a final to remember.

3. 2023 – Chennai Super Kings vs Gujarat Titans

Rain delays, revised targets, and last-ball drama—this final had it all. With Gujarat Titans putting up a colossal 214, the match was interrupted and eventually converted into a DLS chase. CSK needed 171 off 15 overs and pulled it off with Ravindra Jadeja hitting a six and a four off the last two balls. A fairytale ending to what was possibly MS Dhoni’s last match in the IPL. The emotion, the finish, and the crowd made it unforgettable.

4. 2011 – Chennai Super Kings vs Royal Challengers Bangalore

This wasn’t the most closely contested final, but it was historic. CSK dominated from ball one, with Murali Vijay smashing a brilliant 95 and taking the total to 205. The bowlers followed it up by dismantling RCB's strong batting line-up. It was CSK’s second consecutive title, and the match symbolized the beginning of their dynasty. The significance of this win elevates it in the rankings.

5. 2012 – Kolkata Knight Riders vs Chennai Super Kings

Chasing 191 in a final is never easy, especially against a champion team like CSK. But Manvinder Bisla had other plans. His 89-run knock stunned CSK and led KKR to their maiden title. Gautam Gambhir’s team pulled off what many thought was an impossible chase. It was a final that announced KKR’s arrival as a serious IPL contender.

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6. 2008 – Rajasthan Royals vs Chennai Super Kings

The inaugural final holds a special place in IPL history. Rajasthan Royals, led by Shane Warne, were the underdogs throughout the season. Chasing a tricky 164, they held their nerve and clinched a three-wicket win on the last ball. It wasn’t just a match—it was the birth of a cricketing revolution. The atmosphere, uncertainty, and freshness of the league made this final iconic.

7. 2014 – Kolkata Knight Riders vs Kings XI Punjab

This final was all about resilience. Wriddhiman Saha scored a century for Punjab, but KKR’s chase was equally strong, led by Manish Pandey’s quick-fire 94. KKR chased down 200 with just a few balls to spare, securing their second title. The back-and-forth nature of the game and the high score made it a final that stood out.

Each of these finals offered something unique—be it legendary performances, last-ball thrillers, or emotional farewells. While the IPL always brings fireworks, these final matches were on another level, capturing the spirit of the tournament and leaving fans with memories that will last a lifetime.

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Ranking the Best IPL Final Matches in Tournament History