CSK won by 6 wickets against KKR.
The Journey of Chennai Super Kings this season has been full of ups and downs but mainly incorporating the downs as they have seen only a few wins. This is quite unlike CSK after their whooping performance in previous seasons but still they managed to add a triumph in account. They defeated Kolkata Knight Riders by 6 wickets. This win may not uplift their position but still a gain in performance will enlighten the moods of fans. Both teams presented the best sides of their game.
The match was live from Dubai International Stadium. Chennai Super Kings won the toss and sent Kolkata Knight Riders to bat. KKR posted the target of 172 runs on loss of 5 wickets. The chase was a bit difficult but Chennai not only made it through but also excelled in style. Ravindra Jadeja finished the game with a marvelous six, turning the eyes of fielders to the ball which snatched win from their hands.
Well after this Mumbai Indians clearly made it to the playoffs while the fate of Kolkata will be decided in further matches. Ruturaj Gaikwad emerged as the Man of the match who amazingly smashed 72 runs off 53 balls and drove the fans mad over his jaw dropping shots. He propelled 6 fours and 2 sixes out of the boundary. Ambati Rayudu slammed 38 off 20 balls, stunning the supporters. Ravindra Jadeja sustained till the very end and dragged the team across the finish line hitting 31 off 11 balls having the highest run rate. Knight Riders were full in form with astonishing shots. Nitish Rana gathered 87 runs off 61 balls but still this hadn't let them win.
The bowling by CSK was somewhat slow but choking. Lungi Ngidi (2/34) took the maximum number of wickets. Karn Sharma (1/35), Jadeja (1/20) and Santner (1/30) dismissed crucial wickets. CSK Skipper MS Dhoni expressed the happiness running all over his nerves. He said, "Finally a victory in our hands. Jadeja has been awesome this season. All credit goes to boys. Ruturaj took it all and brought the game to us."
It will be really interesting to see which teams will finally land in the playoffs. As of now, get ready to witness tonight's battle between Rajasthan Royals and Kings XI Punjab at 7:30 PM.
The Brief. Sign up to receive the top stories you need to know right now.