The 2012 winners of the Indian Premier League, Kolkata Knight Riders, take on first-time finalists Kings XI Punjab in the last match of the seventh edition of the Twenty20 competition on Sunday night. Here is a look at the past five title clashes of cricket’s richest tournament.
2013
Mumbai beat Chennai by 23 runs
Chennai Super Kings arrived in Kolkata deflated after a part-owner was arrested on charges of illegal betting. But it took a special knock – 60 off 32 balls – from Kieron Pollard for Mumbai Indians to thrash their arch-rivals, who scored 125 for nine in response.
2012
Kolkata beat Chennai by five wickets
Little-known Manvinder Bisla chose the perfect occasion to introduce himself to the world – in a title clash – with a brilliant 89, with Kolkata Knight Riders chasing an imposing 191 set by the home team.
2011
Chennai beat Bangalore by 58 runs
A 159-run first-wicket stand between Murali Vijay, (95) and Michael Hussey (63) ensured hosts Chennai posted 205 for five. Once Chris Gayle was bowled out for 10 by Ravichandran Ashwin, it was game over for Royal Challengers Bangalore.
2010
Chennai beat Mumbai by 22 runs
Suresh Raina anchored Chennai’s innings with 57 before the hosts and form side, Mumbai, lost their cool in the chase for 169. Poor shot-selection and an ill-conceived plan to bat Pollard at No 8 did not help them.
2009
Deccan beat Bangalore by six runs
Bangalore made the right call to field first as Anil Kumble bowled Adam Gilchrist for a duck. But Deccan Chargers batted sensibly to get 143 on the board before Pragyan Ojha took three wickets to help them to a famous victory in Johannesburg.
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