The lowest total ever successfully defended in IPL history is 116 runs by Chennai Super Kings (CSK) against Punjab Kings (then Kings XI Punjab) in 2009. CSK posted 116/9 in 20 overs, and despite the low target, their bowlers dominated, restricting Punjab to just 92/8 in 20 overs, securing a 24-run victory.
Other notable low totals successfully defended include:
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118 runs by Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) against Mumbai Indians in 2018, with MI being bowled out for 87.
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119 runs by Punjab Kings against Mumbai Indians in 2009, where MI fell short by just 3 runs.
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119 runs by Sunrisers Hyderabad against Pune Warriors India in 2013, where Pune could only manage 108 runs.
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120 runs by Mumbai Indians against Pune Warriors India in 2012, where MI won by just 1 run.
These matches highlight the importance of strong bowling performances even in low-scoring games, proving that T20 cricket isn’t just about high scores but also strategic defenses.