The momentous first match of the WPL was held on March 4, 2023, resulting in a hefty victory for the Mumbai Indians over the Gujarat Giants by a 143-run margin. A grand display of cricketing excellence lit up the stadium with unforgettable performances from the MI players. But this wasn’t the only significant inaugural match in the history of T20 leagues. So, let’s look at the five most exciting opening games of the T20 circuit that made lasting impressions.
#1 KKR vs RCB, IPL 2008
The inaugural Indian Premier League (IPL) match proved to be a highly entertaining affair. Kolkata Knight Riders crushed Royal Challengers Bangalore, thanks to Brendon McCullum’s incredible 73-ball 158* that powered KKR to an unassailable 222/3 in their 20 overs. Unfortunately for RCB, they failed to put up a fight and were bowled out for just 82 runs while chasing the 223 needed for a victory.
#2 India Maharajas vs Asia Lions, Legends League Cricket 2022
Last year, the Legends League Cricket’s inaugural edition took place in Oman, resulting in an exciting win for the India Maharajas over the Asia Lions by six wickets. Despite a strong start from the Lions with their 175/7 in the first innings, the Maharajas hung tough and managed to chase the target in 19.1 overs, even when they were down to 34/3 in the seventh over.
#3 RCB vs Cape Cobras, CLT20 2019
Thanks to Robin Uthappa and Ross Taylor’s half-centuries, the RCB side scored 180/4 in 20 overs. Despite the Cobras being 14/2 in the run-chase, an unbeaten 99-run performance from JP Duminy got them over the finish line in the 20th over.
#4 Kandy Tuskers vs Colombo Kings – Lanka Premier League 2020
On November 26, 2020, the opening game of the Lanka Premier League ended in a thrilling tie between the Kings of Colombo and the Kandy Tuskers, with both teams scoring 219 runs in their 20 overs. An exciting Super Over ensued, with the Kings scoring 16 runs and successfully defending it.
#5 Barbados Tridents vs. St Lucia Zouks, CPL 2013
In the inaugural match of the CPL, Barbados scored 169/5 in their 20 overs and then bowled out the Zouks for just 152 runs. Shoaib Malik was awarded Player of the Match for his 51-ball 78 and a spell of 1/2.
