The Kolkata Knight Riders have been crowned IPL champions after a thrilling five wicket win over defending champions Chennai Super Kings.
The victory marks the first time that a New Zealander has been a part of the winning team, with BLACKCAP Brendon McCullum having played a pivotal role in the lead up to the final.
The Super Kings, who were looking for their third title in a row, opted to bat first and were impressive on their way to a total of 190 for three at the end of 20 overs.
Suresh Raina top scored for Chennai with 73, while Michael Hussey also contributed with 54.
It promised to be a tough run chase for Kolkata, but a second wicket partnership of 136 between Manvinder Bisla and Jacques Kallis gave the Knight Riders a good chance.
Man of the match Bisla went on to make 89 off just 48 balls. Kallis stayed around a little longer and guided his team through to within striking distance.
Manoj Tiwary would be the one to claim glory for his team though, striking two fours in a row to send his side into ecstasy with two balls remaining.
It is Kolkata’s first IPL title, with the side pocketing US $2 million in prize money.