The most iconic 2023 IPL matches and what to watch out for in the 2024 edition

The Indian Premier League (IPL), over 15 years since its inception, has evolved into one of the most popular T20 leagues globally.

The 2023 season certainly produced several memorable matches accentuated by stunning performances. From miraculous heists to emotional reunions, the latest edition was replete with iconic moments that will be etched in IPL history.

Despite these moments, fans are still expecting the tournament to give them an even crazier experience. Maybe even the best IPL cricket match you’ll ever see. Who knows?

But if you want a reminiscent of the best 2023 IPL moments and what the upcoming season may look like, read on because we’ve got all that covered.

Iconic matches of 2023

Let’s stroll down the not-so-distant memory lane, and relive some of the best moments of the 2023 IPL.

Rinku Singh’s sensational 5 sixes

In one of the greatest IPL heists, Kolkata Knight Riders’ Rinku Singh clobbered 5 towering sixes in the last over against Gujarat Titans’ Alzarri Joseph to pull off a chase of 156 runs.

KKR needed 21 runs from the final over with Rinku joined by no. 11 Umesh Yadav. But Rinku unleashed a barrage of clean hits over wide long-on to script a dramatic 2-wicket win. His breathtaking power-hitting embodied the audacious spirit of T20 cricket.

Rishabh Pant’s emotional return

Delhi Capitals’ captain Rishabh Pant made a heartwarming return to action less than a month after suffering multiple injuries in a horrific car crash. Walking out for the toss with Gujarat Titans, a teary-eyed Pant was greeted by thunderous applause at Delhi’s home ground recognizing his perseverance.

Although DC lost, Pant’s sheer presence inspired supporters and fraternity after concerns over his career.

Rashid Khan’s hat-trick heroics

Afghanistan ace Rashid Khan claimed the first hat-trick of the 2023 IPL season dismissing Shreyas Iyer, Shivam Mavi, and Pat Cummins in successive balls against Kolkata Knight Riders.

This was Rashid’s second IPL hat-trick matching compatriot Mohammed Nabi’s record. Rashid tormented KKR with a magical leg-spin en route to remarkable figures of 4/17 in 4 overs that restricted the opposition to below 150.

Gujarat Titans coasted to a comfortable win, highlighting Rashid’s game-changing abilities.

Virat Kohli vs Sourav Ganguly

Tempers seemed frayed between Royal Challengers Bangalore’s Virat Kohli and BCCI President Sourav Ganguly during their post-match handshake after RCB’s loss to Kolkata Knight Riders.

Kohli was spotted giving an icy cold stare to his former Indian captain Ganguly, further fueling rumors of an ongoing feud. Their distinctly uncomfortable exchange gained widespread attention despite both personalities downplaying the incident later on.

Dhoni-Kohli nostalgia

CSK skipper MS Dhoni and RCB talisman Virat Kohli are, without a doubt, two pillars of Indian cricket in this era. So, it’s a monumental event to witness their on-field reunion in 2023.

Their epic rivalry as captains has given way to mutual respect since Dhoni’s international retirement. Kohli always acknowledges Dhoni’s advice and guidance during lean phases, evident in their warm meeting despite RCB’s loss.

The upcoming 2024 IPL – what to watch out for

So, what should fans expect in the upcoming tournament? Here are some of our thoughts:

Rising Young Stars:
Mumbai Indians’ southpaw sensation Tilak Varma shone brightly in 2023 emerging among leading run-scorers with 397 runs at 36.09. Another player to watch out for is all-rounder prodigy Rajvardhan Hangargekar also impressed for champions Gujarat. 2024 could witness the ascent of these talents alongside fresh faces from the IPL auction.

Evolving team strategies

Pre-tournament favorites Mumbai Indians shockingly finished bottom without qualifying for playoffs in 2023. The five-time champions have to overhaul their strategies, and that includes possibly adopting spin-heavy attacks that brought CSK success for years.

KKR also fell short of expectations last season. They need to better utilize emerging talents like Rinku Singh through greater responsibility. RCB is still seeking silverware for the ages of Kohli and de Villers – the think tank knows they must rejig plans before their era ends sans trophies.

Mouthwatering marquee clashes

Fans eagerly await Kohli renewing rivalries against international nemeses like Kagiso Rabada when RCB confronts Punjab Kings. After his IPL return, all eyes will follow Rishabh Pant in Delhi Capital’s fixtures against heavyweights Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings led by eternal legend Dhoni.

Conclusion

Many would agree that the IPL 2023 threw up several heart-stopping contests accented by outstanding talents. The 2024 edition promises the same level of excitement. Many couldn’t contain their excitement now that the auction was done.

It will be interesting to see how each team would perform with their latest lineups. The tournament is scheduled to run from March 29 to May 26, 2024.

The official venues are yet to be announced but as usual, the matches are expected to be played in at least 10 cities across India.