Highest Powerplay Scores of CSK in IPL

Highest Powerplay Scores of CSK in IPL :The powerplay in T20 cricket consists of the first six overs of an innings, where only two fielders are allowed outside the 30-yard circle. Batting teams use this phase to maximize runs, attacking the bowlers and setting the momentum for the innings.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK), one of the most successful franchises in Indian Premier League (IPL) history, have capitalized on the powerplay overs with aggressive starts, thanks to their explosive top-order batters. From Suresh Raina’s fiery knock to Dwayne Smith and Brendon McCullum’s fearless stroke play, CSK has consistently dominated the first six overs.

Below is a look at CSK’s highest powerplay scores in IPL history and the impactful performances behind them.

Highest Powerplay Scores Made by CSK in the History of IPL

CSK’s highest powerplay score came against Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) in 2014, when they raced to 100/2 in six overs while chasing 227. This remains one of the fastest starts in IPL history. Another memorable powerplay performance came against Mumbai Indians (MI) in 2015, where they reached 90/0 without losing a wicket. Apart from these, CSK has crossed the 70-run mark in several powerplays, showing their aggressive approach at the start of innings.

SR No	Team	Score	Opponent Team	Date
1	CSK	100/2	KXIP	2014
2	CSK	90/0	MI	2015
3	CSK	75/1	KKR	2018
4	CSK	73/1	LSG	2022
5	CSK	70/0	KXIP	2014
6	CSK	69/1	RR	2018

#1. 100/2 vs Kings XI Punjab – IPL 2014 (Highest Powerplay Score)

CSK’s highest powerplay total of 100/2 was recorded during the 2014 IPL playoffs against Kings XI Punjab. Chasing a massive 227-run target, CSK needed an explosive start, and Suresh Raina delivered one of the greatest T20 innings ever seen.

Raina scored 87 runs off just 25 balls, reaching his fifty in only 16 deliveries. His knock included 12 fours and 6 sixes, putting immense pressure on the Punjab bowlers. CSK reached 100 runs within the first six overs, making it one of the fastest scoring rates in IPL history.

Despite this flying start, CSK lost momentum after Raina’s dismissal and eventually fell short of the target. Even though the team lost, Raina’s knock remains one of the most iconic performances in IPL history, with his powerplay dominance setting a near-unbreakable record for CSK.

#2. 90/0 vs Mumbai Indians – IPL 2015

In IPL 2015, CSK came close to breaking their own record when they reached 90/0 in the powerplay against Mumbai Indians. The opening pair of Dwayne Smith and Brendon McCullum went all out from the start, ensuring Mumbai had no breathing room.

Smith was the top scorer in the powerplay, smashing 62 off 30 balls, while McCullum played a quick 46 off 20 deliveries. Their aggressive stroke play gave CSK the best possible platform, putting them in a dominant position.

This powerplay effort proved too much for Mumbai to recover from, as CSK won the match by six wickets.

#3. 75/1 vs Kolkata Knight Riders – IPL 2018  

CSK’s powerplay dominance continued in IPL 2018 when they scored 75/1 against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) while chasing a target of 202 runs. Shane Watson and Ambati Rayudu were the key contributors, attacking the KKR bowlers right from the first ball.

Watson played a major role in ensuring CSK reached 75 runs in just six overs, punishing any loose deliveries and keeping the scoreboard moving at a rapid pace. Even after losing a wicket, CSK’s strong start gave them full control of the chase.

Later in the match, Sam Billings stepped up, finishing the game with an unbeaten knock that helped CSK secure a thrilling win with one ball to spare. This powerplay performance once again proved how crucial a fast start can be in T20 cricket.

#4. 73/1 vs Lucknow Super Giants – IPL 2022

In IPL 2022, CSK’s attacking approach was on display again when they scored 73/1 in the powerplay against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Robin Uthappa and Moeen Ali took on the bowlers, hitting boundaries from both ends.

Moeen Ali went on to play a match-defining knock, scoring 93 runs, as CSK posted 210/7 in 20 overs. The fast start helped them maintain a strong run rate throughout the innings, putting pressure on the opposition.

However, despite their excellent batting performance, CSK ended up on the losing side as LSG successfully chased the target in the final over.

#5. 70/0 vs Kings XI Punjab – IPL 2014

CSK’s aggressive powerplay performances were a feature of IPL 2014, and they once again took charge early against Kings XI Punjab, scoring 70/0 in six overs. Brendon McCullum and Dwayne Smith opened the innings in full attacking mode, ensuring Punjab had no chance to settle.

Smith played a major role, scoring 66 runs, while McCullum added 67 runs, making sure CSK built a strong foundation. The quick start allowed the middle order to take risks, but despite this promising start, CSK ended up losing the match in a high-scoring contest.

#6. 69/1 vs Rajasthan Royals – IPL 2018

CSK’s ability to dominate the powerplay was evident once again in IPL 2018, when they scored 69/1 against Rajasthan Royals. Shane Watson was the standout performer, playing one of his finest IPL innings.

Watson reached his century in just 43 balls, destroying Rajasthan’s bowling attack. His aggressive batting helped CSK post 204/5, giving them a strong chance of winning the game.

However, Rajasthan responded with an even more aggressive chase, securing a 64-run win despite CSK’s powerful batting effort in the early overs

Powerplay Challenges

CSK’s success in the powerplay has often played a major role in their match results. When batting first, a strong start allows them to set a big total, while when chasing, quick runs reduce the pressure in the later stages.

However, in some matches, CSK has seen a dip in momentum after a strong powerplay, leading to slower middle overs. Teams that have managed to contain CSK’s scoring rate in the first six overs have often been able to apply pressure later in the innings, making this phase of the game highly important.

Conclusion  

Chennai Super Kings have built a reputation for producing some of the fastest powerplay starts in IPL history. Their highest-ever powerplay score of 100/2 against Kings XI Punjab in 2014, powered by Suresh Raina’s 87 off 25 balls, remains one of the most aggressive batting performances seen in T20 cricket.

With strong openers like Brendon McCullum, Dwayne Smith, Shane Watson, Robin Uthappa, and Moeen Ali, CSK has regularly pushed the boundaries of what can be achieved in the first six overs. Their fearless approach at the top of the order has often set the tone for big totals and match-winning performances.