The 5 Highest Scores in IPL History: Batting Records That Stunned the World
The Indian Premier League (IPL) has been a platform for some extraordinary batting feats since its inception. From explosive knocks to unbroken records, the IPL has witnessed some of the best cricketing performances. Here’s a look at the top 5 highest individual scores that have stunned fans and left an indelible mark on the tournament's history.
1. Chris Gayle - 175 vs Pune Warriors India, 2013*
No one has come close to surpassing Chris Gayle’s incredible 175* against Pune Warriors India in 2013. Playing for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Gayle’s sheer power and precision took the Pune bowlers to the cleaners. He blasted 13 fours and 17 sixes, maintaining an explosive strike rate of 265.15. His 175* came off just 66 balls, and RCB posted a massive total of 263/5. Pune could only manage 133/9 in response, handing RCB a dominating 130-run victory. Gayle’s performance remains one of the most iconic in T20 cricket.
2. Brendon McCullum - 158 vs Royal Challengers Bangalore, 2008*
In the very first match of the IPL, Brendon McCullum’s scintillating 158* set the tone for the tournament’s explosive batting reputation. Playing for Kolkata Knight Riders against RCB, McCullum hammered 10 fours and 13 sixes in his 73-ball innings, striking at an incredible 216.43. Kolkata scored 222, and RCB was bowled out for just 82, losing by a massive 140 runs. McCullum’s knock not only sealed his place in IPL history but also helped elevate the tournament’s global appeal.
3. Abhishek Sharma - 141 vs Punjab Kings, 2025
In one of the most unforgettable knocks of the IPL, Abhishek Sharma’s 141* against Punjab Kings in 2025 stunned the cricketing world. Opening the innings for Sunrisers Hyderabad, Sharma hammered 14 fours and 10 sixes, scoring his runs at an explosive strike rate of 256.36. His knock, coming off just 55 balls, helped Hyderabad chase down a daunting target of 246 in just 18.3 overs, winning by 8 wickets with 9 balls to spare. This record-breaking chase will be remembered as one of the best.
4. Quinton de Kock - 140 vs Kolkata Knight Riders, 2022*
Quinton de Kock’s unbeaten 140* against Kolkata Knight Riders in 2022 is one of the finest innings in recent IPL history. Representing Lucknow Super Giants, de Kock shared an unbeaten partnership with KL Rahul, putting on 210 runs without losing a wicket. His explosive 140* off 70 balls featured 10 fours and 10 sixes, striking at a blistering 200. Lucknow won by just 2 runs, chasing down 208 with incredible precision, making it one of the most thrilling finishes in IPL history.
5. AB de Villiers - 133 vs Mumbai Indians, 2015*
At number five is AB de Villiers, whose 133* against Mumbai Indians in 2015 remains one of the most stylish innings in IPL history. Batting for RCB, de Villiers blasted 19 fours and 4 sixes, scoring at a strike rate of 225.42. His explosive knock guided RCB to a massive 235/1, and despite a valiant chase by Mumbai, RCB secured a comfortable 39-run victory, with Mumbai finishing at 196/7. De Villiers’ knock is a testament to his incredible versatility and explosive batting skills.
These record-breaking innings not only reflect the batsmen’s individual brilliance but also showcase the IPL's thrilling nature. From Gayle’s monstrous hitting to McCullum’s memorable debut, these performances have set the bar high for future generations of IPL players.