2012 IPL Winner, Runner-up, Playing Team, Final Venue

The 2012 Indian Premier League (IPL) was the fifth edition of the tournament and once again brought thrilling T20 action to cricket fans around the world. Held from April 4 to May 27, 2012, this season saw some of the finest performances and memorable matches. The league featured nine teams battling it out for the coveted IPL trophy. However, it was the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) who emerged as the champions, while the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), led by MS Dhoni, had to settle for the runner-up spot.

Kolkata Knight Riders – 2012 IPL Champions

The Kolkata Knight Riders, led by Gautam Gambhir, claimed their maiden IPL title in 2012. This victory was special as KKR had struggled in previous seasons but made a strong comeback in 2012 with consistent performances. In the final, played at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, KKR faced off against two-time champions Chennai Super Kings.

Chennai Super Kings batted first and posted a challenging total of 190/3 in their 20 overs. Suresh Raina was the standout performer for CSK, scoring a blistering 73 off 38 balls, supported by Michael Hussey (54) and Murali Vijay (42). With a strong target set, CSK seemed to be in control.

However, KKR’s chase was led by Manvinder Bisla, who played the innings of his life. Bisla smashed 89 runs off just 48 balls, providing the much-needed firepower at the top of the order. Jacques Kallis played a pivotal role with a well-crafted 69 off 49 balls. KKR eventually chased down the target, scoring 192/5 in 19.4 overs, winning the match by 5 wickets, and lifting their first-ever IPL trophy.

Chennai Super Kings – The Runners-up of 2012 IPL

Chennai Super Kings, under Dhoni’s leadership, were looking to secure a hat-trick of titles after their triumphs in 2010 and 2011. CSK had a stellar run throughout the tournament and entered the final as favorites. Their strong batting lineup, featuring players like Suresh Raina and Michael Hussey, ensured that they posted a formidable total in the final. However, their bowling attack couldn’t contain KKR’s chase, and despite setting a high target, they fell short.

The Final Showdown

• Venue: M.A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
• Chennai Super Kings: 190/3 (20 overs)
• Kolkata Knight Riders: 192/5 (19.4 overs)
• Winning Margin: Kolkata Knight Riders won by 5 wickets

Prize Money

• Kolkata Knight Riders (Winners): ₹10 crore
• Chennai Super Kings (Runners-up): ₹7.5 crore

Teams Participating in the 2012 IPL

The 2012 IPL featured nine teams:

1. Kolkata Knight Riders (Champions)
2. Chennai Super Kings (Runners-up)
3. Delhi Daredevils
4. Mumbai Indians
5. Royal Challengers Bangalore
6. Kings XI Punjab
7. Rajasthan Royals
8. Deccan Chargers
9. Pune Warriors India

Conclusion

The 2012 IPL season will be remembered for Kolkata Knight Riders’ remarkable triumph, as they lifted their first-ever IPL trophy. Gautam Gambhir’s leadership, along with key performances from Bisla and Kallis, made the difference for KKR in the final. For Chennai Super Kings, it was a tough loss as they were denied a third consecutive title. The season further solidified IPL’s status as the premier T20 league, captivating audiences with high-octane cricket and thrilling moments.