IPL 2008 Final: Rajasthan Royals crowned champions

Rajasthan Royals defeat Chennai Super Kings in this nailbiting encounter to win the inaugural IPL title.

Chennai Super Kings posted 163/5 after being sent in to bat at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai.

An excellent 116-run opening stand between Parthiv Patel (38) and Suresh Raina, who top-scored with a fluent 43 from 30 balls, laid the foundation, while captain MS Dhoni added an unbeaten 29 to push Chennai to a competitive total.

Rajasthan Royals responded with a determined chase, overcoming regular wickets thanks largely to an outstanding all-round performance from Yusuf Pathan.

The hard-hitting all-rounder smashed 56 from 39 balls after earlier taking 3/22, keeping his side in contention before the match went down to the final over.

Rajasthan eventually reached 164/7 with one ball to spare, securing a dramatic three-wicket victory and becoming the first-ever IPL champions, with Pathan earning the Player of the Match award.

April 2008