In the ongoing IPL 2024 clash between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Punjab Kings in Dharamsala, CSK found themselves defending a total of 167/9. Knowing the importance of a strong start with the ball, CSK relied on their fast bowler Tushar Deshpande to deliver, and he didn’t disappoint.

Tushar Deshpande had missed CSK’s previous game against Punjab Kings due to a minor niggle, during which CSK suffered a seven-wicket defeat while defending 162. However, his impactful return to the lineup was evident as he starred with the ball against Sunrisers Hyderabad in a previous encounter, guiding CSK to a resounding 78-run victory with a remarkable four-wicket haul.

Against Punjab Kings, Tushar Deshpande wasted no time in making an impact. In his very first over, he dismissed the dangerous Jonny Bairstow, providing CSK with the crucial early breakthrough. Partnering with left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner, Deshpande started strong, conceding just two runs before claiming the wicket of Bairstow.

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Jonny Bairstow’s dismissal came from a well-directed delivery that nipped back in, catching the batsman off guard and disturbing the stumps. Deshpande’s fiery pace proved too much for Bairstow to handle, as the ball snuck past his bat and hit the stumps, sending the opener back to the pavilion.

  

Building on his momentum, Tushar Deshpande continued to trouble the Punjab Kings batsmen, dismissing Rilee Rossouw on the final ball of the same over. Rossouw, unable to contend with Deshpande’s sharp delivery, saw his stumps rattled as CSK celebrated their dream start with the ball.

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At the time of writing, Punjab Kings were 52/2 in the seventh over, with Prabhsimran Singh and Shashank Singh at the crease. With CSK aiming to defend their total, Deshpande’s impactful spell set the tone for a thrilling encounter, showcasing his value as a key asset in CSK’s bowling lineup.