IPL: Second innings knocks that had more impact than a century

#8 Ross Taylor (81* vs Kolkata Knight Riders)

New Zealand's best batsman.

After finishing the maiden IPL season at second to last on the points table, RCB made a strong comeback in 2009 as they finished as the runners-up, behind only Deccan Chargers. Led by the legendary Anil Kumble, RCB won a number of matches due to some impressive performances by its players, and, during their league match against KKR, it was Ross Taylor's turn to prove why he was an integral part of the team.

Batting first at the Super Sports Park in Centurion, KKR, on the back of some magical batting by Brendon McCullum, posted 173 on the board. Chasing 174, RCB got off to a good start in the powerplay, but three wickets in quick succession reduced them to 74/3 in 11 overs when Ross Taylor came out to bat.

With 100 required in 9 overs, Ross Taylor straight away went into gear 4 and started bashing all around the ground. With Rahul Dravid and Mark Boucher holding the other end, Taylor went on a rampage and, with the help of 7 sixes and 5 fours, scored 81 runs from just 33 balls. KKR bowlers clearly didn't have any answers to Taylor's counter attack as RCB reached the target with 4 balls still remaining.