IPL 2024: CSK keep playoffs hopes alive with five-wicket win over RR

In a gripping IPL encounter at Chennai, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) orchestrated a memorable comeback to defeat the Rajasthan Royals (RR) by five wickets, fueled by Ruturaj Gaikwad’s strategic batting and Simarjeet Singh’s three-wicket haul. The win propels CSK to third place in the standings, amassing 14 points from 13 matches.

Ruturaj Gaikwad, who orchestrated the run chase with a composed 42*, shared his thoughts on the match’s outcome, reflecting on the pitch conditions and his team’s performance. “As a batting unit, the foundation was there but we could not capitalize after that and keep the momentum up. The wicket was a little up and down and a little tacky so momentum was very important. I think it was a par score, given the conditions, felt that the bowlers did well. Every ball that came back from the boundary came back wet. The bowlers made sure they kept taking wickets. (On his thoughts for the next game) Nothing, just to go and enjoy as much as we can and play good cricket, that’s been my motto from the start. I do not think we have played enough good cricket this season.”

The contest, which was restricted to a run chase of 142 due to earlier batting efforts, saw CSK’s openers take an aggressive stance from the onset. Despite a promising start, the middle order experienced a slight wobble before Gaikwad steadied the ship, ensuring CSK crossed the finish line with an over to spare.

Simarjeet Singh emerged as a key performer with the ball, claiming three crucial RR wickets and restricting them to a modest total of 141/5. His spell included the vital dismissals of top-order batsmen which significantly dampened RR’s momentum.

“This game was important for us, not just in the context of the standings but also for our team morale. I’m glad we could deliver when it counted,” stated Simarjeet, reflecting on his performance and the overall team effort.

The match also witnessed a controversial moment involving Ravindra Jadeja, who was dismissed for obstructing the field. This incident was pivotal, as it occurred during a critical phase of the game. “Jadeja’s turn had quite a sizeable radius, and the third umpire reckons Jadeja knew where the ball was, and that he turned into the line of the throw. ‘Out’ is the verdict, and Jadeja has to go. He is not happy at all, but the verdict is out. What a moment in this game!”

As CSK continues to build momentum, the focus shifts to their remaining fixtures, with the squad aiming to secure a playoff spot in the fiercely competitive IPL season.