Chennai Super Kings (CSK) had a satisfying finish on the slower Chepauk track during the IPL 2023 Qualifier 1 tie on Tuesday against Gujarat Titans (GT). Ruturaj Gaikwad and Devon Conway set a solid foundation with an 87-run opening partnership, with Gaikwad reaching a well-deserved half-century. Towards the end of the innings, Ambati Rayudu (17 off 9) and Ravindra Jadeja (22 off 16) played crucial cameo knocks, guiding CSK to a total of 172 for seven against Gujarat Titans.
However, the home crowd at Chepauk was slightly disappointed as they didn’t witness much of MS Dhoni’s batting due to his early dismissal. Dhoni came to the crease in the 17th over after Rayudu’s departure. Facing his former CSK teammate Mohit Sharma, Dhoni managed only a single off the slower and wider delivery on the first ball he faced. On the fifth ball of the over, Mohit stuck to his plan against Dhoni, who attempted to hit it over cover but failed to get the desired elevation.
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Hardik Pandya took a comfortable catch, marking a significant wicket despite the lack of celebration. What caught the attention of commentators was the reaction of the Chepauk crowd. Throughout Dhoni’s brief stay, the spectators had been cheering passionately as they had done all season. However, there was sudden pin-drop silence following Dhoni’s dismissal.
Here is the video of the dismissal of MS Dhoni:
Earlier in the match, Darshan Nalkande, playing his first game this season, deceived Gaikwad with a slower delivery, but unfortunately, it was called a no ball. Gaikwad took full advantage of the opportunity and punished the Gujarat Titans attack, achieving his fourth consecutive half-century against the franchise. He now holds the record for the highest individual score against GT in IPL history.
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While Gaikwad showcased his form with his runs, Conway struggled during his innings of 40 runs. Mohit Sharma provided the breakthrough, dismissing Gaikwad in the 11th over. Shivam Dube and Ajinkya Rahane followed suit shortly after, and Conway’s struggle ended when Mohammed Shami claimed his wicket.
Shami was the standout bowler for Gujarat, taking two wickets at an economy rate of seven runs per over. Mohit Sharma also picked up two wickets, conceding 31 runs.
