The Indian Premier League (IPL) is one of the most celebrated cricket tournaments globally, featuring high-intensity matches, top-tier players, and record-breaking performances. Among these milestones, the first century in IPL history remains a significant achievement. This article delves into the details of the first-ever century in IPL, including the player, match details, and records while also exploring the IPL winner list over the years.
Who Scored the First Century in IPL?
The first century in IPL history was scored by Brendon McCullum of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on April 18, 2008, during the opening match of the inaugural IPL season. McCullum played a stunning knock of 158 runs off just 73 balls* against the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
Match Details of First IPL Century
- Match: Kolkata Knight Riders vs. Royal Challengers Bangalore
- Date: April 18, 2008
- Venue: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
- Innings: Kolkata Knight Riders
- Runs Scored: 158* off 73 balls
- Fours & Sixes: 10 Fours, 13 Sixes
- Strike Rate: 216.43
- Result: Kolkata Knight Riders won by 140 runs
Brendon McCullum’s sensational innings set the tone for the IPL’s future, proving how explosive and entertaining the tournament would be. His innings included breathtaking strokes, aggressive batting, and a fearless approach, helping KKR post a massive total of 222/3 in 20 overs. RCB struggled in response and were bowled out for 82 runs, leading to a comprehensive victory for KKR.
Records Set by Brendon McCullum’s First IPL Century
McCullum’s innings not only registered the first century in IPL history but also set multiple records, including:
- Highest Individual Score in IPL at the Time – His 158* remained the highest individual score in IPL for several years.
- First Player to Score 150+ in IPL – No player had scored 150+ runs in a T20 game of this stature before.
- Most Sixes in an Innings – His 13 sixes in that match became a benchmark for power-hitting.
- Fastest Century in IPL (at the time) – McCullum reached his hundred in just 53 balls, a record back then.
Impact of the First IPL Century on the Tournament
McCullum’s innings gave the IPL an electrifying start, attracting global cricket fans to this new T20 league. The remarkable performance highlighted the aggressive and high-scoring nature of the tournament, making IPL an instant success. His knock laid the foundation for IPL’s journey, which has since become the most prestigious T20 league in the world.
Other IPL Centuries and Records
Since McCullum’s iconic knock, the IPL has witnessed numerous centuries by several legendary cricketers. Some of the other notable IPL century-makers include:
- Chris Gayle (175 in 2013)* – The highest-ever individual score in IPL history.
- Virat Kohli (4 Centuries in IPL 2016) – Most centuries in a single IPL season.
- David Warner, AB de Villiers, and Shane Watson – Multiple century-scorers in IPL history.
IPL Winner List Over the Years
While the first IPL century was a defining moment, IPL winners have also made history. Here’s a look at the IPL winner list from 2008 to the latest season:
- 2008 – Rajasthan Royals
- 2009 – Deccan Chargers
- 2010 – Chennai Super Kings
- 2011 – Chennai Super Kings
- 2012 – Kolkata Knight Riders
- 2013 – Mumbai Indians
- 2014 – Kolkata Knight Riders
- 2015 – Mumbai Indians
- 2016 – Sunrisers Hyderabad
- 2017 – Mumbai Indians
- 2018 – Chennai Super Kings
- 2019 – Mumbai Indians
- 2020 – Mumbai Indians
- 2021 – Chennai Super Kings
- 2022 – Gujarat Titans
- 2023 – Chennai Super Kings
Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings have dominated the IPL winner list, winning multiple titles. However, new teams like Gujarat Titans have also made their mark in recent years.
Conclusion
The first century in IPL history, scored by Brendon McCullum, remains an iconic moment that set the stage for the IPL’s success. His blistering knock of 158* not only helped KKR register a massive win but also captivated audiences worldwide. Since then, numerous players have joined the elite list of century-makers, contributing to IPL’s reputation as a high-scoring and entertaining league.
Moreover, the IPL winner list highlights how the tournament has evolved, with teams like Chennai Super Kings, Mumbai Indians, and Kolkata Knight Riders dominating the league. With every passing season, IPL continues to break records, produce thrilling performances, and keep fans engaged globally.
As the IPL progresses, cricket enthusiasts eagerly await more such breathtaking centuries and historic moments that define the league’s legacy.
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