Chennai Super Kings (CSK) faced a significant setback as they were defeated by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) by 50 runs at the iconic Chepauk Stadium, marking their first home loss to RCB in 17 years. Chasing a steep target of 197, CSK struggled throughout their innings, managing only 146/8 in their allotted 20 overs.
The Bengaluru innings was anchored by their captain Rajat Patidar, who scored a crucial 51, driving RCB to a formidable 196-7. Despite the efforts of CSK’s Afghan left-arm spinner Noor Ahmad, who dismissed the dangerous Phil Salt early and contained Virat Kohli to 31 off 30 balls in the middle overs, RCB’s batting line-up prevailed.
RCB’s revamped pace attack, spearheaded by Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood, played a pivotal role in derailing CSK’s chase from the outset. Hazlewood struck early, dismissing Rahul Tripathi and CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad with mistimed pull shots, and later removed Ravindra Jadeja with another short ball. Kumar found the outside edge of Deepak Hooda, while Yash Dayal further dented CSK’s hopes, reducing them to 80-6 in the 13th over after dismissing Shivam Dube (19) and top-scorer Rachin Ravindra (41).
Despite a valiant effort from Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who scored a quickfire 30* off 16 balls, CSK could only narrow the margin of defeat. The decision to send Dhoni in at number 9 sparked widespread criticism and debate among fans and experts alike, who believe his earlier presence in the batting order could have altered the match’s outcome.
Former cricketer Robin Uthappa expressed his disappointment over Dhoni’s late arrival at the crease, questioning the strategy on social media. He suggested that CSK may have missed a vital opportunity by holding back their most seasoned finisher. Uthappa posted on X, “Important win for RCB. A win at the fortress in Chepauk will be a huge boost in their campaign this year. Dhoni coming at number 9 didn’t make sense at all. Him coming earlier could have helped CSK’s NRR in their campaign this year.”
Irfan Pathan, another former Indian all-rounder, also weighed in on the debate, expressing his dissatisfaction with Dhoni batting so low in the order. Taking to social media, Pathan questioned the decision, hinting that CSK may have missed a key chance to turn the game around. “I will never be in favour of Dhoni batting at number 9. Not ideal for team,” Pathan stated.
With back-to-back away wins against defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders and now CSK, RCB have made a strong start to their IPL 2024 campaign, eyeing their maiden title with renewed vigor.