CHENNAI: In a scintillating match on Monday, the Chennai Super Kings marred efforts by Lucknow Super Giants at MA Chindambaram stadium in Chennai. An explosive half century by Kayle Myers went in vain as Moen Ali’s 4 wickets and a deathful bowling by the Dhoni team scored 12 runs victory in their first game back at Chepauk.
Chennai Super Kings batters, including special cameo by Dhoni, made the most of the batting that came to them first after Lucknow Super Giants chose to bowl first after winning the toss.
Initially, LSG looked very much in commanding position. They even bettered the power play numbers against Chennai Super Kings. But as soon as Dhoni decided to bring in Moeen Ali, it was a downhill for LSG from there on. Along with Mitch Santner, Ali demolished the batting lineup of Super Giants. He took major wickets including LSG captain KL Rahul, Marcus Stoinis and very in-form Kyle Mayers.
For the records, no team has ever chased more than 206 as target at Chepauk. Chasing a mammoth score of 218, Dhoni’s explosive cameo showed why is one and only Thala! Of the three Mark Wood deliveries that he faced; Dhoni scored two back-to-back sixes. His last attempt was foiled by Bishnoi. With this, Dhoni completed 5,000 runs in the Indian Premier League. Before his cameo, CSK openers did a fantastic job. Both Ruturaj Gaikwad and Devon Conway helped CSK to score a formidable total of 217.
On part of LSG, it was Ravi Bishnoi who broke the first wicket partnership by CSK openers. 4-28-3 – that’s what Bishnoi’s chart read.
This was the first time that Dhoni-led CSK squad was playing at the iconic Chepauk without legendary Suresh Raina. The team was defeted in the IPL opener against Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad. Lucknow Super Giants, on the other hand, didn’t manage to keep their winning streak intact after their thrilling victory in their home ground against Delhi Capitals.
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