IPL's Lowest Team Score: Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has seen its share of thrilling cricket matches, but some nights are remembered for the teams that could muster a mere handful of runs. The IPL holds the record for the lowest team score in the history of the league, and it happened on April 23, 2017, when Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) was bowled out for a mere 49 runs against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Eden Gardens.

IBC Record-Breaking Match

RCB faced a daunting task to meet the 49-run target when KKR were on a mission to defend such a low score. The young and talented KKR side, led by Gautam Gambhir, trusted in their bowling unit. The match is memorable for the bowlers who collectively played an instrumental role in securing a historic victory.

Key Performers Who Contributed to the Low Score

Three main bowlers from KKR were responsible for the low score. Nathan Coulter-Nile, Colin de Grandhomme, and Chris Woakes all played significant roles in bowling out RCB for a meager 49 runs. Virat Kohli, who led RCB, found it incredibly challenging to score runs, adding to the drama of the game.

RCB's Diverse Record

Interestingly, RCB has the unique distinction of holding the record for both the highest and lowest scores in IPL history. While they recorded a remarkable 263/5 against Pune Warriors India on April 23, 2013, they have also been the team to post the lowest score in IPL history. This duality exemplifies the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket and the fortunes that can swing in a single game.

Top 5 Lowest Team Totals in IPL History

RCB: 49 - against KKR on 23rd April 2017 Rajasthan Royals: 58 - against RCB on 18th April 2009 Delhi Daredevils: 66 - against Mumbai Indians on 6th May 2017 Delhi Daredevils: 67 - against Kings XI Punjab on 30th April 2017 Kolkata Knight Riders: 67 - against Mumbai Indians on 16th May 2008

Historical Data and Context

No. Team Score Opposition Ground Match Date 1 Royal Challengers Bangalore 49 Kolkata Knight Riders Kolkata 23-Apr-2017 2 Rajasthan Royals 58 Royal Challengers Bangalore Cape Town 18-Apr-2009 3 Delhi Daredevils 66 Mumbai Indians Delhi 6-May-2017 4 Delhi Daredevils 67 Kings XI Punjab Mohali 30-Apr-2017 5 Kolkata Knight Riders 67 Mumbai Indians Mumbai 16-May-2008 6 Royal Challengers Bangalore 70 Chennai Super Kings Chennai 23-March-2019 7 Royal Challengers Bangalore 70 Rajasthan Royals Abu Dhabi 26-Apr-2014 8 Kings XI Punjab 73 Rising Pune Supergiant Pune 14-May-2017 9 Kochi Tuskers Kerala 74 Deccan Chargers Kochi 27-Apr-2011 10 Chennai Super Kings 79 Mumbai Indians Mumbai 5-May-2013

Conclusion

In the ever-shifting landscape of professional cricket, especially in the IPL, the 49-run score by RCB remains a pinnacle moment. It serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket and the importance of handling such low-pressure situations effectively. The IPL, with its blend of high-scoring matches and nail-biting low-scoring affairs, continues to captivate cricket fans worldwide.