IPL 2018 is on full swing and 22'nd April saw one of the most cracking great matches in this edition so far. Chennai Super Kings took on Sun Risers Hyderabad and it was a nail-biting finish that had fans on the edge of their seats. The result saw CSK rise to the top of the table and restore the faith of multitudes that have unwavering faith in this franchise more than others.
Hyderabad won the toss and decided to field first. CSK got up to 182 in their allotted 20 overs, with Ambati Rayudu showing his class scoring 79 off just 37 balls and the doughty Suresh Raina getting 54 off 43. In characteristic style, M S Dhoni gave the innings a final impetus with 25 off 12.
In the end, skipper Kane Williamson’s 84 was in vain, and the hosts fell just short of their target. It was yet another great performance by Chennai. This puts CSK on top of the table with 8 points, just above Punjab who also have 8 points. After this game, Hyderabad are at the fourth spot.
One of the reasons Chennai has been such a consistent performer in one after another IPL is the fact that they have brought new talent to the fore by taking on lesser-known players. The ‘untested’ Deepak Chahar who took four wickets is seen as the latest example of this.
The average age of the Chennai team may be a bit higher than some of the others; but those who called the team an old-age home are having to eat their words. In cricket, experience counts for a lot, and a solid, cohesive team of people that work together in tandem counts for even more.
SRH made a valiant effort but in the end they just fell short, the Chennai team was able to keep their heads just a bit better to win the match.
There was a preponderance of the team colour yellow in the stands. This, even with game being in Hyderabad.
This tweet by a CSK fan club is not far wrong, when they say every game is a home-game for Chennai. The fact is, that they have supporters everywhere. There is support for the team no matter where they play or against whom.
If Chennai gets support wherever they go, it is largely because of Dhoni, whose popularity never seems to ebb. Every time someone says it’s time for him to retire, he makes them eat their words.
Another hugely experienced and talented player, Raina knows how to mould his innings as required.
Even his opposition has the utmost respect for him. Afghan player Rashid Khan paid rich tributes to him as well.
Returning to the league after a two-season suspension, the team's popularity has not waned. Having won twice, the team has the best winning percentage in the competition and has among the highest brand-values. CSK fans are hoping the magic of 2010 and 2011 is recreated again this year.
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