The Indian Premier League (IPL) has always been a tournament full of excitement, thrill and nail-biting moments. From high scores to last over finishes, the league has seen it all. But amidst all the big hits and flashy shots, there have been instances when the bowlers have taken the centre stage and defended some of the lowest totals in the history of the tournament. These victories not only showcase incredible bowling performances, but also the never-say-die attitude of the teams.
Since its inception in 2008, the IPL has witnessed some memorable clashes where teams have successfully defended the lowest of totals, leading to some dramatic wins that are etched in the minds of fans forever. Let us take a look at some of the lowest totals that have been defended in IPL from 2008 to 2025.
2009: Rajasthan Royals vs Kolkata Knight Riders (132 runs)
In the second edition of the IPL, Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight Riders locked horns in a low-scoring encounter in Durban. Batting first, Rajasthan Royals were restricted to a paltry total of 132 runs, courtesy some brilliant bowling by the Knight Riders’ attack. However, what followed next was an outstanding display of bowling as Rajasthan Royals defended their total by just 4 runs, thanks to excellent bowling performances by players like Yusuf Pathan and Munaf Patel. This victory remains one of the biggest upsets in IPL history and is a testament to the Royals’ fighting spirit.
2010: Kolkata Knight Riders vs Chennai Super Kings (139 runs)
In another low-scoring thriller, Kolkata Knight Riders faced off against Chennai Super Kings in Chennai. Batting first, Knight Riders could only manage to score 139 runs, with Wriddhiman Saha top-scoring with 46 runs. However, their bowlers had other plans as they restricted the mighty Chennai Super Kings batting line-up to just 123 runs. Knight Riders’ left-arm spinner, Murali Kartik, was the star of the show as he took 4 wickets for just 18 runs in his 4 overs, helping the team register a 10-run victory. This match proved that even a low total can be defended if the bowlers execute their plans well.
2014: Delhi Daredevils vs Mumbai Indians (125 runs)
In one of the most thrilling low-scoring encounters in IPL history, Delhi Daredevils faced off against Mumbai Indians at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Batting first, Daredevils could only score 125 runs, with only 3 batsmen managing to reach double figures. It was expected to be an easy chase for the Mumbai Indians, but the Daredevils had different plans. Their bowlers put up an exceptional show, with Mohammed Shami, Jaydev Unadkat and Kedar Jadhav picking up 2 wickets each. In the end, Mumbai Indians fell short by a mere 3 runs, giving Delhi Daredevils an unlikely victory and proving that anything is possible in IPL.
2020: Kings XI Punjab vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (132 runs)
In the 13th edition of the IPL, Kings XI Punjab faced off against Sunrisers Hyderabad in Dubai. Batting first, Kings XI Punjab had a disastrous start, losing 5 wickets for just 12 runs. However, captain KL Rahul’s grit and determination helped the team reach a total of 132 runs, which seemed easy for the Sunrisers. But the Punjab bowlers had other plans as they proved to be a tough nut to crack for the Hyderabad batsmen. Ravi Bishnoi and Arshdeep Singh were the heroes of the match, taking 3 wickets each and leading Kings XI Punjab to a 12-run victory.
2025: Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Mumbai Indians (128 runs)
In the future, the IPL continued to surprise its fans with some thrilling low-scoring matches. In 2025, Royal Challengers Bangalore and Mumbai Indians faced off in a low-scoring encounter in Ahmedabad. Batting first, Royal Challengers could only score 128 runs, with young leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal top-scoring with 32 runs. Chasing a modest total, Mumbai Indians were looking comfortable at one stage, but the Royal Challengers’ bowlers had different plans. They never let the Mumbai batsmen settle in and restricted them to just 118 runs, registering a 10
