The Indian Premier League (IPL) has witnessed several breathtaking partnerships over the years, but none have been more iconic than the unforgettable 229-run stand between Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in 2016. This remains the highest partnership in IPL history.
Top 5 Highest Partnerships in IPL History
1️⃣ Virat Kohli & AB de Villiers – 229 runs (RCB vs GL, 2016)
2️⃣ Virat Kohli & AB de Villiers – 215 runs* (RCB vs MI, 2015)
3️⃣ Quinton de Kock & KL Rahul – 210 runs* (LSG vs KKR, 2022)
4️⃣ Adam Gilchrist & Shaun Marsh – 206 runs (KXIP vs RCB, 2011)
5️⃣ Chris Gayle & Virat Kohli – 204 runs* (RCB vs DD, 2012)
RCB’s 229-Run Stand – A Record-Breaking Knock
On May 14, 2016, at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers tore apart Gujarat Lions’ (GL) bowling attack, stitching together a sensational 229-run stand for the second wicket.
- Virat Kohli: 109 off 55 balls (8 sixes, 5 fours)
- AB de Villiers: 129 off 52 balls* (12 sixes, 10 fours)
Their breathtaking partnership propelled RCB to 248/3, one of the highest totals in IPL history. Gujarat Lions crumbled under pressure, managing just 104 runs, leading to a massive 144-run victory for RCB.
Kohli & De Villiers’ Magic – 215 vs MI (2015)*
A year before their historic 229-run stand, Kohli and AB de Villiers had already set a record with 215 runs against Mumbai Indians* in 2015. In that match:
- AB de Villiers smashed 133 off 59 balls*
- Virat Kohli played a supporting role with 82 off 50 balls*
Their partnership was crucial in RCB’s total of 235/1, leading to an easy win.
Can This Record Be Broken?
With power hitters like Jos Buttler, Shubman Gill, Glenn Maxwell, and KL Rahul in the IPL, a new record is possible. However, breaking 229 runs in a single partnership will require a dream combination of form, flat pitch, and fearless batting.
With IPL 2025 on the horizon, can we witness a new record-breaking partnership?
