The Indian Premier League has produced countless unforgettable moments, but the playoffs are where legends are truly made. The pressure and magnitude of knockout cricket often bring out the very best in players. Over the years, several batters have delivered extraordinary performances in IPL playoffs and finals, producing knocks that are still remembered by fans across the world.
As the ongoing 2026 edition of the cash-rich tournament heads toward another exciting conclusion with four franchises chasing a second title, it is the perfect time to revisit five of the greatest playoff innings in the league’s history.
Here are the top five greatest IPL playoffs knocks of all time:
5. Manish Pandey (KKR vs KXIP), IPL 2014 Final
One of the most iconic playoff innings came from Manish Pandey during the IPL 2014 final between Kolkata Knight Riders and Kings XI Punjab in Bengaluru. Punjab posted a massive 199/4 after brilliant contributions from Wriddhiman Saha and Manan Vohra. Saha played one of the greatest innings ever seen in an IPL final, smashing an unbeaten 115 off just 55 balls. Chasing nearly 200 in a final is never easy, especially under pressure, but Pandey produced the innings of his life.
The right-hander attacked from the beginning and completely changed the momentum of the match with his fearless strokeplay. He scored 94 runs from only 50 deliveries, including seven boundaries and six sixes at a strike rate close to 190. His partnership with Yusuf Pathan shifted the game decisively in KKR’s favour, helping them chase the target with three balls remaining and secure their second IPL trophy.
