Partnerships may define a match in the Indian Premier League (IPL), which is known for dramatic endings and last-over heroics. History has seen record-breaking partnerships that have awed cricket fans. These partnerships show player genius and perfect chemistry. This blog examines the highest IPL partnerships and their effects.
What is the Highest Partnership in IPL?
Royal Challengers Bangalore’s Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers have the best IPL partnership. Their 229-run second-wicket stand against Gujarat Lions in 2016 was remarkable. This record-breaking pair shows their outstanding synergy and expertise.
They helped RCB score 248/3 with Kohli reaching 109 off 55 balls and de Villiers hitting 129* off 52 deliveries. One of the most memorable IPL innings.
Top 10 Highest Partnerships in IPL
| Position | Players and Team | Runs | Wicket | Team | Against | Year |
| 1 | Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers | 229 | 2nd | RCB | Guj Lions | 2016 |
| 2 | Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers | 215 | 2nd | RCB | MI | 2015 |
| 3 | Quinton de Kock, KL Rahul | 210 | 1st | LSG | KKR | 2022 |
| 4 | Shubhman Gill, Sai Sudharsan | 210 | 1st | GT | CSK | 2024 |
| 5 | Adam Gilchrist, Shaun Marsh | 206 | 2nd | PBKS | RCB | 2011 |
| 6 | Chris Gayle, Virat Kohli | 204 | 2nd | RCB | Daredevils | 2011 |
| 7 | David Warner, Naman Ojha | 189 | 2nd | Daredevils | Deccan | 2012 |
| 8 | Jonny Bairstow, David Warner | 185 | 1st | SRH | RCB | 2019 |
| 9 | Gautam Gambhir, Chris Lynn | 184 | 1st | KKR | Guj Lions | 2017 |
| 10 | KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal | 183 | 1st | PBKS | RR | 2020 |
Iconic Partnerships in IPL History
The IPL has had some memorable partnerships. These incredible stands have changed games and established records. Here are some of the most famous IPL partnerships:
1. Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers (229 runs)
Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers’ 229-run stand for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) against Gujarat Lions in 2016 was the greatest in IPL history. RCB reached 248/3 thanks to this second-wicket stand. De Villiers scored an unbeaten 129 off 52 balls, while Kohli scored a brilliant 109 off 55. Their alliance is renowned in IPL history.
2. Quinton de Kock & KL Rahul (210 Runs)*
Quinton de Kock and KL Rahul for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) vs Kolkata Knight Riders had the best IPL 2022 opening partnership. De Kock led LSG to a massive total with an unbeaten 140 from 70 balls, the highest individual score of IPL 2022. Rahul’s essential help showed the duo’s connection.
3. Shubman Gill & Sai Sudharsan (210 Runs)
Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan of Gujarat Titans (GT) played well against Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2023. Their 210-run stand is one of the highest in IPL 2023, bolstering their opening pair domination and GT’s impressive total.
4. Adam Gilchrist, Shaun Marsh (206 Runs)
Adam Gilchrist and Shaun Marsh of Punjab Kings (PBKS) held the highest IPL partnership record for four years. In 2011, their 206-run stand against RCB was devastating. Marsh maintained his unbeaten 79 off 49 as Gilchrist hit a blazing 106 off 55 balls. Their partnership enabled PBKS win by 111 runs with 232/2.
5. Chris Gayle, Virat Kohli (204 runs)
RCB’s second-wicket partnership of Chris Gayle and Virat Kohli scored 204 runs against Delhi Daredevils in 2011. RCB scored 215/1 thanks to Gayle’s 107 off 49 balls and Kohli’s 63 off 53. RCB won easily thanks to one of the first huge IPL partnerships.
The Importance of Opening Partnerships
Opening partnerships set the tone for the innings. Quinton de Kock and KL Rahul for Lucknow Super Giants have the highest IPL opening partnership in 2022. They also had the best first wicket partnership in IPL history, 210 runs against KKR.
Memorable Partnerships in Recent IPL Seasons
Highest Partnership in IPL 2023
Gujarat Titans openers Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan scored 210 runs against Chennai Super Kings in 2023. This joint-highest opening partnership tied de Kock and Rahul’s 2022 mark, emphasising the importance of huge partnerships in T20 cricket.
Highest IPL 2022 Partnership
De Kock and Rahul’s combination is notable for its runs and strategic value. Their innings were pacing and acceleration masterworks.
Highest IPL 2021 Partnership
There was no record-breaking combination in 2021, but Ruturaj Gaikwad and Faf du Plessis worked well together for CSK. Their partnerships helped CSK win the title.
Highest IPL 2020 Partnership
KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal opened for Punjab Kings against Rajasthan Royals in 2020, scoring 183 runs. This partnership was a highlight of IPL history.