IPL Teams have comeback from the brink of elimination to reach playoffs. This is what adds to the thrill of a tournament like the IPL. A couple of overs, a few big shots or a single wicket can completely change fortunes. Some teams have even gone on to win the trophy, qualifying in such manner. Here are 5 best comebacks by IPL teams to reach the playoffs:
5. Delhi Daredevils- 2008
Delhi Daredevils began the inaugural season of the IPL brightly, winning 4 out of their first 5 matches. Then they lost their next 4 games and were suddenly struggling to reach the semis. Behind Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Mumbai Indians (MI) in the points table, DD managed 3 wins in their last 5 games. A washout with KKR and a victory over MI in the final league game meant they finished the league a solitary point more than Mumbai.
4. Deccan Charges- 2010
Losing 5 consecutive games thereafter, their chances of reaching the semis were highly improbable. It was then that they staged a miraculous comeback by winning 5 consecutive league games to finish the table at number 2.
3. Chennai Super Kings - 2010
In the 2010 edition, they were in trouble after winning just 2 out of their first 7 encounters. However, the team, that has made at least the playoffs every single edition so far, showed their character by winning 5 out of their remaining 7 to scrape through.
2. Kolkata Knight Rider-2014
After 7 games in the 2014 edition, the Kolkata Knight Riders had registered just 2 wins. Ever since the appointment of Gautam Gambhir as captain, KKR has managed to get together one of the most balanced and consistent sides, with arguably the most potent bowling line up in the competition.
1. Mumbai Indians - 2014
It was the last round robin match of IPL 7 and both Rajasthan Royals and Mumbai Indians came into the game knowing that a win would seal their place in the playoffs. The road seemed tough but Corey Anderson had other ideas. He came in and blasted an unbeaten 44 ball 95 to give the Mumbai unexpected victory.