Indian Premier League
The Indian Premier League started in 2008 and has achieved immense success over the last 15 years, advancing cricket in numerous ways. This T20 league brings cricketers from all over the world together for about two months, creating excitement that fans eagerly await for years. The 2023 season marks the 16th season of the Indian Premier League, and April 30 is a particularly special day as it will feature a historic match between Mumbai and Rajasthan (MI vs RR). Let’s take a look at the journey from the first match to the 1000th match.
The Evolution of Cricket’s Most Exciting T20 League Over 15 Years
The first match of the Indian Premier League was played between Royal Challengers Bangalore and Kolkata Knight Riders. This match demonstrated just how much this league would change cricket in the future. Playing for Kolkata, Brendon McCullum hit 158 runs in 73 balls, including 10 fours and 13 sixes. Kolkata batted first, scoring 222 runs in 20 overs and winning the match by 140 runs, with Bangalore only scoring 82 runs.
The 100th match of the Indian Premier League
The 100th match of the Indian Premier League was also played between Kolkata and Bangalore. Due to the Lok Sabha elections, the 2009 season was held in South Africa, and the 100th match was played in Centurion. Kolkata scored 173 runs in this match, with Brendon McCullum again being the standout performer with 84 runs. However, Ross Taylor, another Kiwi batsman, scored 81 off 33 balls, leading Bangalore to a seven-wicket win. Bangalore achieved the target in 19.2 overs.
The 500th match of the Indian Premier League
The 500th match of the Indian Premier League was played between Rajasthan Royals and Delhi Daredevils. With Ajinkya Rahane scoring 91 off 54 balls, Rajasthan Royals scored 189 runs for 2 wickets in 20 overs. Delhi could only manage 175 runs for 7 wickets, losing the match by 14 runs.
