<p>Former Sunrisers Hyderabad skipper David Warner shared an edited picture of himself with his daughter in a Chennai Super Kings (CSK) jersey ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 final on Friday (October 15). Warner, who had a woeful season at SRH in IPL 2021, sparked speculations on social media by sharing the picture on Instagram.</p>

<p>Warner was sacked from SRH's captaincy midway through the IPL 2021 season before being dropped from the playing XI. SRH's treatment of the star Australian batsman was questioned by many as he managed to play only eight matches in the league this season.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With many expecting Warner to be released by SRH ahead of the mega auction, the Australian star's Instagram post stirred up a storm on social media. In the picture, Warner can be seen wearing a CSK jersey while carrying his daughter on his shoulders.</p>

<p>Warner later deleted the picture and clarified that it was an edit he posted to express his support for CSK ahead of their IPL 2021 clash against Kolkata Knight Riders at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Friday. Nonetheless, fans were quick to speculate about the possibility of Warner joining CSK next year.</p>

<p><strong>Check out David Warner's post here:</strong></p>

<p><strong><img alt="David Warner in CSK jersey." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dee7d770-83f5-4813-9abe-28e08cbd5164" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Warner%20CSK.png" /></strong></p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-cant-hear-you-ms-dhoni-tells-presenter-ian-bishop-as-dubai-crowd-erupts-at-toss-during-ipl-2021-final-421075">'I can't hear you': MS Dhoni tells presenter Ian Bishop as Dubai crowd erupts at toss during IPL 2021 final</a></p>

<p>Warner, who has been one of the most consistent performers with the bat in IPL over the years, endured one of his worst seasons with SRH in 2021. He managed to play 8 games and scored 195 runs before being dropped entirely from the squad.</p>

<p>He played only two matches in the UAE leg of the tournament as SRH finished a disappointing eighth and failed to make it to the playoffs. Warner remains the only captain to have led SRH to an IPL title in 2016.</p>


Former Sunrisers Hyderabad skipper David Warner shared an edited picture of himself with his daughter in a Chennai Super Kings (CSK) jersey ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 final on Friday (October 15).

Former Sunrisers Hyderabad skipper David Warner shared an edited picture of himself with his daughter in a Chennai Super Kings (CSK) jersey ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 final on Friday (October 15). Warner, who had a woeful season at SRH in IPL 2021, sparked speculations on social media by sharing the picture on Instagram. Warner was sacked from SRH's captaincy midway through the IPL 2021 season before being dropped from the playing XI. SRH's treatment of the star Australian batsman was questioned by many as he managed to play only eight matches in the league this season. With many expecting Warner to be released by SRH ahead of the mega auction, the Australian star's Instagram post stirred up a storm on social media. In the picture, Warner can be seen wearing a CSK jersey while carrying his daughter on his shoulders. Warner later deleted the picture and clarified that it was an edit he posted to express his support for CSK ahead of their IPL 2021 clash against Kolkata Knight Riders at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Friday. Nonetheless, fans were quick to speculate about the possibility of Warner joining CSK next year. Check out David Warner's post here: Also Read: 'I can't hear you': MS Dhoni tells presenter Ian Bishop as Dubai crowd erupts at toss during IPL 2021 final Warner, who has been one of the most consistent performers with the bat in IPL over the years, endured one of his worst seasons with SRH in 2021. He managed to play 8 games and scored 195 runs before being dropped entirely from the squad. He played only two matches in the UAE leg of the tournament as SRH finished a disappointing eighth and failed to make it to the playoffs. Warner remains the only captain to have led SRH to an IPL title in 2016.

Former SRH skipper David Warner posts edited picture in CSK jersey on Instagram, deletes later

<p>Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni recieved a rousing reception as he walked out for toss during the IPL 2021 final against Kolkata Knight Riders at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Friday (October 15). Dhoni added another feather to his illustrious cap as he became the first captain to lead in 300 T20 matches.</p>

<p>Dhoni, who is one of the most successful captains in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL) led CSK out in their ninth final in Dubai on Friday. While he has captained the Yellow Army to three titles and nine finals, Dhoni himself has been part of ten finals as a player.</p>

<p>The crowd in Dubai couldn't stop raring as Dhoni stood alongside Morgan for the toss.&nbsp;The crowd erupted after Dhoni took the mic at the toss and the CSK captain had to take a brief pause before beginning. 'I can't hear you,' He was heard telling presenter Ian Bishop as the crowd went berserk. The CSK skipper spoke after the noise died down a bit</p>

<p>"Crowd was silent before the toss, but as soon as MS Dhoni started speaking, we couldn't hear a single thing," Bishop was later heard saying in the commentary box.</p>

<p>KKR captain Eoin Morgan won the toss and decided to bowl first in the IPL 2021 final. However, his decision backfired as CSK openers Faf du Plessis and Ruturak Gaikwad got their team off to a brilliant start. The duo put on a 61-run stand for the first wicket before Gaikwad was dismissed on 32 off 27 balls.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/300-200-and-100-csk-veterans-ms-dhoni-ravindra-jadeja-faf-du-plessis-play-milestone-game-in-ipl-2021-final-421071">300, 200 and 100: CSK veterans MS Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, Faf du Plessis play milestone game in IPL 2021 final</a></p>

<p>Du Plessis continued his purple patch and went on to notch up 86 runs off 59 balls laced with 7 fours and 3 sixes. He combined with Robin Uthappa (31) and Moeen Ali (37) to propel CSK to a strong total of 192 runs in the final. KKR will have to chase down 193 to win the IPL 2021 title and clinch their third trophy.</p>


Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni recieved a rousing reception as he walked out for toss during the IPL 2021 final against Kolkata Knight Riders at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Friday (October 15).

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni recieved a rousing reception as he walked out for toss during the IPL 2021 final against Kolkata Knight Riders at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Friday (October 15). Dhoni added another feather to his illustrious cap as he became the first captain to lead in 300 T20 matches. Dhoni, who is one of the most successful captains in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL) led CSK out in their ninth final in Dubai on Friday. While he has captained the Yellow Army to three titles and nine finals, Dhoni himself has been part of ten finals as a player. The crowd in Dubai couldn't stop raring as Dhoni stood alongside Morgan for the toss. The crowd erupted after Dhoni took the mic at the toss and the CSK captain had to take a brief pause before beginning. 'I can't hear you,' He was heard telling presenter Ian Bishop as the crowd went berserk. The CSK skipper spoke after the noise died down a bit "Crowd was silent before the toss, but as soon as MS Dhoni started speaking, we couldn't hear a single thing," Bishop was later heard saying in the commentary box. KKR captain Eoin Morgan won the toss and decided to bowl first in the IPL 2021 final. However, his decision backfired as CSK openers Faf du Plessis and Ruturak Gaikwad got their team off to a brilliant start. The duo put on a 61-run stand for the first wicket before Gaikwad was dismissed on 32 off 27 balls. Also Read: 300, 200 and 100: CSK veterans MS Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, Faf du Plessis play milestone game in IPL 2021 final Du Plessis continued his purple patch and went on to notch up 86 runs off 59 balls laced with 7 fours and 3 sixes. He combined with Robin Uthappa (31) and Moeen Ali (37) to propel CSK to a strong total of 192 runs in the final. KKR will have to chase down 193 to win the IPL 2021 title and clinch their third trophy.

'I can't hear you': MS Dhoni tells presenter Ian Bishop as Dubai crowd erupts at toss during IPL 2021 final

<p>Chennai Super Kings skipper MS Dhoni became the first captain to lead a side in 300 T20 matches during CSK's Indian Premier League 2021 final clash against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Friday (October 15) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Apart from Dhoni, Daren Sammy (208) is the only other player to have captained teams in more than 200 T20s. The match against KKR is also the ninth IPL final for Dhoni as a CSK leader.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reflecting on the same, Dhoni during the toss said, "It's been a long time. We started T20 in around 2005-06 and most of the games have been franchise cricket and in the last five years there have been a lot of T20 games in international cricket as well."</p>

<p>Apart from Dhoni, two other CSK players have also made a milestone in the IPL 2021 final clash and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and the South African batter Faf du Plessis are playing their 200th and 100th IPL match, respectively.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virender-sehwag-names-uncapped-indian-star-kkr-should-retain-ahead-of-ipl-mega-auction-421038">Virender Sehwag names uncapped Indian star KKR should retain ahead of IPL mega auction</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Yellove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Yellove</a> you 300* Thala 💛<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSKvKKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSKvKKR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> 🦁 <a href="https://t.co/q7wgnxmKTT">pic.twitter.com/q7wgnxmKTT</a></p>
— Chennai Super Kings - Mask P😷du Whistle P🥳du! (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/1449004451730059267?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The Super Kings Going Miles together 🦁<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSKvKKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSKvKKR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Yellove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Yellove</a> 💛 <a href="https://t.co/fQivdaXwDG">pic.twitter.com/fQivdaXwDG</a></p>
— Chennai Super Kings - Mask P😷du Whistle P🥳du! (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/1449009336869527558?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-manvinder-bisla-tormented-ms-dhoni-co-heres-what-happened-in-last-ipl-final-between-csk-and-kkr-421008"><strong>When Manvinder Bisla tormented MS Dhoni &amp; Co.! Here's what happened in last IPL final between CSK and KKR</strong></a></p>

<p>Du Plessis has been a beast this season, scoring 547 runs in a total of 15 matches. In his entire IPL career, the South African has gathered 2849 runs.</p>

<p>On the other hand, Jadeja has scored 227 runs and snatched 11 wickets in 15 matches this season. In his entire IPL career, the Indian has scored 2386 runs and took 125 wickets.</p>


Chennai Super Kings skipper MS Dhoni became the first captain to lead a side in 300 T20 matches during CSK's Indian Premier League 2021 final clash against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Friday (October 15) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

Chennai Super Kings skipper MS Dhoni became the first captain to lead a side in 300 T20 matches during CSK's Indian Premier League 2021 final clash against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Friday (October 15) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Apart from Dhoni, Daren Sammy (208) is the only other player to have captained teams in more than 200 T20s. The match against KKR is also the ninth IPL final for Dhoni as a CSK leader. Reflecting on the same, Dhoni during the toss said, "It's been a long time. We started T20 in around 2005-06 and most of the games have been franchise cricket and in the last five years there have been a lot of T20 games in international cricket as well." Apart from Dhoni, two other CSK players have also made a milestone in the IPL 2021 final clash and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and the South African batter Faf du Plessis are playing their 200th and 100th IPL match, respectively. ALSO READ | Virender Sehwag names uncapped Indian star KKR should retain ahead of IPL mega auction We #Yellove you 300* Thala 💛#CSKvKKR #WhistlePodu 🦁 pic.twitter.com/q7wgnxmKTT — Chennai Super Kings - Mask P😷du Whistle P🥳du! (@ChennaiIPL) October 15, 2021 × The Super Kings Going Miles together 🦁#CSKvKKR #WhistlePodu #Yellove 💛 pic.twitter.com/fQivdaXwDG — Chennai Super Kings - Mask P😷du Whistle P🥳du! (@ChennaiIPL) October 15, 2021 × ALSO READ | When Manvinder Bisla tormented MS Dhoni & Co.! Here's what happened in last IPL final between CSK and KKR Du Plessis has been a beast this season, scoring 547 runs in a total of 15 matches. In his entire IPL career, the South African has gathered 2849 runs. On the other hand, Jadeja has scored 227 runs and snatched 11 wickets in 15 matches this season. In his entire IPL career, the Indian has scored 2386 runs and took 125 wickets.

300, 200 and 100: CSK veterans MS Dhoni, Ravindra Jadeja, Faf du Plessis play milestone game in IPL 2021 final

<p>Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have their eyes set on an elusive fourth Indian Premier League (IPL) crown as they gear up to face Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the final of IPL 2021. CSK have a fabulous record when it comes to the playoffs and will be playing their ninth IPL final at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Friday.</p>

<p>Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) might not have played as many finals as CSK but they have won both the summit clashes that they have featured in so far and remain unbeaten in IPL finals. It is expected to be a nail-biter when the two top teams go up against each other in the final of IPL 2021.</p>

<p>Out of the two finals that KKR have played so far in the IPL, their first showdown was against none other than CSK. Led by Gautam Gambhir back then, KKR had chased down a strong target of 191 runs comfortably to stun MS Dhoni &amp; Co. and lift their maiden IPL title. That also remains to be the last meeting between CSK and KKR in an IPL final.</p>

<p><strong>Here is a look back at what transpired when CSK and KKR met in the 2012 IPL final:</strong></p>

<p>Chennai Super Kings struggled to make it to the playoffs and had entered the knockout stages as the fourth-placed side in IPL 2012 with 17 points from 16 matches. However, once in the playoffs, the Dhoni-led side found the winning momentum.</p>

<p>CSK were up against Mumbai Indians in the Eliminator where they batted first and posted a hefty total of 187 runs in Bengaluru to beat MI by 38 runs and progress to the second Qualifier. CSK continued their emphatic run and defeated Delhi Capitals by a staggering margin of 86 runs in the knockout tie to secure a spot in the final against KKR.</p>

<p>CSK were favourites against Gambhir's KKR in the summit clash considering they had won back-to-back titles in 2010 and 2011. However, Manvinder Bisla turned the tie on its head with his stunning batting performance in the all-important game.</p>

<p>Despite posting a big total of 190 runs on the board, batting first, CSK ended up losing the final by five wickets with two balls to spare as uncapped Bisla produced the knock of his life to see KKR through under pressure. Bisla opened the batting with skipper Gautam Gambhir in the final but soon lost his partner as the left-hander was dismissed cheaply on 2 off 4 balls.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-look-at-top-5-highest-and-lowest-totals-in-ipl-finals-as-csk-battle-kkr-for-elusive-trophy-420987">A look at top 5 highest and lowest totals in IPL finals as CSK battle KKR for elusive trophy</a></strong></p>

<p>However, what followed was a truly sensational knock by the Haryana batsman. Bisla went on to score a match-winning 89 off just 48 balls laced with 8 fours and 5 sixes. He combined with all-rounder Jacques Kallis (69) to help KKR chase down the target with two balls to spare and clinch their maiden IPL title.</p>

<p>Bisla's 48-ball 89 was the second-highest score by a batsman in an IPL final at the time. He had not fired throughout the season but stepped up in the final to take the CSK bowlers to the cleaners and torment their bowling attack. with his aggressive batting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Later, KKR went on to win their second IPL title in 2014 while CSK had to wait for seven years to win their third IPL title in 2018.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have their eyes set on an elusive fourth Indian Premier League (IPL) crown as they gear up to face Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the final of IPL 2021.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have their eyes set on an elusive fourth Indian Premier League (IPL) crown as they gear up to face Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the final of IPL 2021. CSK have a fabulous record when it comes to the playoffs and will be playing their ninth IPL final at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Friday. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) might not have played as many finals as CSK but they have won both the summit clashes that they have featured in so far and remain unbeaten in IPL finals. It is expected to be a nail-biter when the two top teams go up against each other in the final of IPL 2021. Out of the two finals that KKR have played so far in the IPL, their first showdown was against none other than CSK. Led by Gautam Gambhir back then, KKR had chased down a strong target of 191 runs comfortably to stun MS Dhoni & Co. and lift their maiden IPL title. That also remains to be the last meeting between CSK and KKR in an IPL final. Here is a look back at what transpired when CSK and KKR met in the 2012 IPL final: Chennai Super Kings struggled to make it to the playoffs and had entered the knockout stages as the fourth-placed side in IPL 2012 with 17 points from 16 matches. However, once in the playoffs, the Dhoni-led side found the winning momentum. CSK were up against Mumbai Indians in the Eliminator where they batted first and posted a hefty total of 187 runs in Bengaluru to beat MI by 38 runs and progress to the second Qualifier. CSK continued their emphatic run and defeated Delhi Capitals by a staggering margin of 86 runs in the knockout tie to secure a spot in the final against KKR. CSK were favourites against Gambhir's KKR in the summit clash considering they had won back-to-back titles in 2010 and 2011. However, Manvinder Bisla turned the tie on its head with his stunning batting performance in the all-important game. Despite posting a big total of 190 runs on the board, batting first, CSK ended up losing the final by five wickets with two balls to spare as uncapped Bisla produced the knock of his life to see KKR through under pressure. Bisla opened the batting with skipper Gautam Gambhir in the final but soon lost his partner as the left-hander was dismissed cheaply on 2 off 4 balls. Also Read: A look at top 5 highest and lowest totals in IPL finals as CSK battle KKR for elusive trophy However, what followed was a truly sensational knock by the Haryana batsman. Bisla went on to score a match-winning 89 off just 48 balls laced with 8 fours and 5 sixes. He combined with all-rounder Jacques Kallis (69) to help KKR chase down the target with two balls to spare and clinch their maiden IPL title. Bisla's 48-ball 89 was the second-highest score by a batsman in an IPL final at the time. He had not fired throughout the season but stepped up in the final to take the CSK bowlers to the cleaners and torment their bowling attack. with his aggressive batting. Later, KKR went on to win their second IPL title in 2014 while CSK had to wait for seven years to win their third IPL title in 2018.

When Manvinder Bisla tormented MS Dhoni & Co.! Here's what happened in last IPL final between CSK and KKR

<p>Former South African pacer Dale Steyn weighed in on the final clash of Indian Premier League 2021 between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Thursday (October 15).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Expressing his thoughts on the batting forms of skippers of both the teams — MS Dhoni and Eoin Morgan, Steyn said that their captaincy skills helped the teams get to the final despite the fact that both of them failed to impress with their individual performance.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/heres-why-sanjay-manjrekar-feels-ipl-2021-has-been-most-frustrating-to-watch-420976">Here's why Sanjay Manjrekar feels IPL 2021 has been 'most frustrating' to watch</a></strong></p>

<p>"Their captaincy has helped their teams get to the final, but with one game to go, you worry it will catch up to them," said Steyn in a conversation on ESPNcricinfo.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Class is permanent with someone like MS Dhoni. He came out the other day (Qualifier 1) and was able to get his team over the line. I feel he has probably got it between his teeth, whereas Eoin Morgan might just be struggling a bit more with the bat, and KKR might just run out of their luck, so as to speak," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If we talk about both the captains,&nbsp;while Dhoni showed signs of redemption in the knockout game against Delhi Capitals, Morgan registered a duck before KKR sealed a win to set up a final clash with CSK.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-we-dont-have-a-keeper-like-ms-dhoni-virat-kohli-teases-rishabh-pant-in-t20-world-cup-promo-420962">WATCH: 'We don't have a keeper like MS Dhoni' - Virat Kohli teases Rishabh Pant in T20 World Cup promo</a></strong></p>

<p>MS Dhoni-led CSK has won the IPL title thrice and after putting on a dismal show in the 2020 season in UAE, the side made a remarkable comeback this year and some fearless cricket from the franchise has seen Dhoni's men reach the finals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the other hand, Morgan's side was completely down and out in the India leg as the side had won just two games out of seven. However, travelling to the UAE brought about a change in fortunes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Venkatesh Iyer's inclusion provided the much-needed boost to the batting lineup and the Kolkata-based franchise has been playing fearless cricket. Shubman Gill, Nitish Rana, and Rahul Tripathi have done their job too this season.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former South African pacer Dale Steyn weighed in on the final clash of Indian Premier League 2021 between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Thursday (October 15).

Former South African pacer Dale Steyn weighed in on the final clash of Indian Premier League 2021 between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Thursday (October 15). Expressing his thoughts on the batting forms of skippers of both the teams — MS Dhoni and Eoin Morgan, Steyn said that their captaincy skills helped the teams get to the final despite the fact that both of them failed to impress with their individual performance. ALSO READ | Here's why Sanjay Manjrekar feels IPL 2021 has been 'most frustrating' to watch "Their captaincy has helped their teams get to the final, but with one game to go, you worry it will catch up to them," said Steyn in a conversation on ESPNcricinfo. "Class is permanent with someone like MS Dhoni. He came out the other day (Qualifier 1) and was able to get his team over the line. I feel he has probably got it between his teeth, whereas Eoin Morgan might just be struggling a bit more with the bat, and KKR might just run out of their luck, so as to speak," he added. If we talk about both the captains, while Dhoni showed signs of redemption in the knockout game against Delhi Capitals, Morgan registered a duck before KKR sealed a win to set up a final clash with CSK. ALSO READ | WATCH: 'We don't have a keeper like MS Dhoni' - Virat Kohli teases Rishabh Pant in T20 World Cup promo MS Dhoni-led CSK has won the IPL title thrice and after putting on a dismal show in the 2020 season in UAE, the side made a remarkable comeback this year and some fearless cricket from the franchise has seen Dhoni's men reach the finals. On the other hand, Morgan's side was completely down and out in the India leg as the side had won just two games out of seven. However, travelling to the UAE brought about a change in fortunes. Venkatesh Iyer's inclusion provided the much-needed boost to the batting lineup and the Kolkata-based franchise has been playing fearless cricket. Shubman Gill, Nitish Rana, and Rahul Tripathi have done their job too this season. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2021: Dale Steyn has his say on captaincy skills of CSK's MS Dhoni and KKR's Eoin Morgan

<p>The countdown for IPL 2021 final has started and the 2021 champions are set to be crowned in a few hours from now. MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will be up against Delhi Capitals (DC) in the final of IPL 2021 at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Friday (October 15).</p>

<p>CSK have showcased incredible pedigree over the years when it comes to playing finals and will be making their ninth appearance in the summit clash of the cash-rich league this year. KKR, on the other hand, have managed to reach only two IPL finals and have won both of them.</p>

<p>Chennai Super Kings hold the record for the second-highest total in the history of IPL finals with 205 runs against RCB in the final of the 2011 edition of the tournament. Sunrisers Hyderabad had&nbsp;posted the highest ever total in an IPL final so far with 208 runs against RCB in 2016 final.</p>

<p>KKR's 200 and 192 runs against Punjab Kings and CSK in the 2014 and 2012 finals respectively, also features in the top five highest totals in IPL finals so far. Ahead of the blockbuster clash between the two teams, here is a look at the highest totals in the history of the IPL finals.</p>

<p><strong>Top five highest total in IPL finals:</strong></p>

<p>Sunrisers Hyderabad - 208 runs vs Royal Challengers Bangalore (2016)</p>

<p>Chennai Super Kings - 205 runs vs Royal Challengers Bangalore (2011)</p>

<p>Mumbai Indians - 202 runs vs Chennai Super Kings (2015)</p>

<p>Kolkata Knight Riders - 200 runs vs Kings XI Punjab (2014)</p>

<p>Kolkata Knight Riders - 192 runs vs Chennai Super Kings (2012)</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/retired-ms-dhoni-has-performed-better-than-eoin-morgan-gautam-gambhir-on-captaincy-debate-ahead-of-ipl-final-420953">Retired MS Dhoni has performed better than Eoin Morgan: Gautam Gambhir&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>Chennai Super Kings have the lowest total to their name in an IPL final. Dhoni &amp; Co. had managed only 125 runs against Mumbai Indians in 2013 final and lost the game by 23 runs while chasing the target of 149 runs. Mumbai Indians had posted the third-lowest total of 129 runs in the 2017 IPL final but went on to win by 1 run to lift their third trophy.</p>

<p><strong>Top five lowest totals in IPL finals:</strong></p>

<p>Chennai Super Kings - 125 runs vs Mumbai Indians in 2013&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rising Pune Supergiant - 128 runs vs Mumbai Indians in 2017</p>

<p>Mumbai Indians - 129 runs vs Rising Pune Supergiant in 2017&nbsp;</p>

<p>Royal Challengers Bangalore - 137 runs vs Deccan Chargers in 2009</p>

<p>Deccan Chargers - 143 runs vs RCB in 2009<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The countdown for IPL 2021 final has started and the 2021 champions are set to be crowned in a few hours from now. MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will be up against Delhi Capitals (DC) in the final of IPL 2021 at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Friday (October 15).

The countdown for IPL 2021 final has started and the 2021 champions are set to be crowned in a few hours from now. MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will be up against Delhi Capitals (DC) in the final of IPL 2021 at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Friday (October 15). CSK have showcased incredible pedigree over the years when it comes to playing finals and will be making their ninth appearance in the summit clash of the cash-rich league this year. KKR, on the other hand, have managed to reach only two IPL finals and have won both of them. Chennai Super Kings hold the record for the second-highest total in the history of IPL finals with 205 runs against RCB in the final of the 2011 edition of the tournament. Sunrisers Hyderabad had posted the highest ever total in an IPL final so far with 208 runs against RCB in 2016 final. KKR's 200 and 192 runs against Punjab Kings and CSK in the 2014 and 2012 finals respectively, also features in the top five highest totals in IPL finals so far. Ahead of the blockbuster clash between the two teams, here is a look at the highest totals in the history of the IPL finals. Top five highest total in IPL finals: Sunrisers Hyderabad - 208 runs vs Royal Challengers Bangalore (2016) Chennai Super Kings - 205 runs vs Royal Challengers Bangalore (2011) Mumbai Indians - 202 runs vs Chennai Super Kings (2015) Kolkata Knight Riders - 200 runs vs Kings XI Punjab (2014) Kolkata Knight Riders - 192 runs vs Chennai Super Kings (2012) Also Read: Retired MS Dhoni has performed better than Eoin Morgan: Gautam Gambhir Chennai Super Kings have the lowest total to their name in an IPL final. Dhoni & Co. had managed only 125 runs against Mumbai Indians in 2013 final and lost the game by 23 runs while chasing the target of 149 runs. Mumbai Indians had posted the third-lowest total of 129 runs in the 2017 IPL final but went on to win by 1 run to lift their third trophy. Top five lowest totals in IPL finals: Chennai Super Kings - 125 runs vs Mumbai Indians in 2013 Rising Pune Supergiant - 128 runs vs Mumbai Indians in 2017 Mumbai Indians - 129 runs vs Rising Pune Supergiant in 2017 Royal Challengers Bangalore - 137 runs vs Deccan Chargers in 2009 Deccan Chargers - 143 runs vs RCB in 2009

A look at top 5 highest and lowest totals in IPL finals as CSK battle KKR for elusive trophy

<p>As MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are all set to take on Eoin Morgan's Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the final of Indian Premier League 2021, former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar expressed his thoughts over the quality of cricket throughout the season.</p>

<p>Manjrekar highlighted the performances by players who are "ordinary" and are "past their prime" in the 14th edition of the cash-rich league and also mentioned why&nbsp;there were&nbsp;so many "bizarre" ends and "turn-arounds". He further opined why this season has been the "most frustrating" IPL to watch for him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I've followed the IPL very closely, but this has been a very unique IPL. Because we have seen some quality players, but we have also seen a large number of guys who are either ability-wise quite ordinary to begin with or players who are past their prime. So, we have seen a lot of those kinds of players in the IPL and we have seen some bizarre results and performances," Manjrekar said during a show on ESPNcricinfo.com.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-we-dont-have-a-keeper-like-ms-dhoni-virat-kohli-teases-rishabh-pant-in-t20-world-cup-promo-420962">WATCH: 'We don't have a keeper like MS Dhoni' - Virat Kohli teases Rishabh Pant in T20 World Cup promo</a></strong></p>

<p>"You've got these very good players and then there is a huge chunk of out-of-form players, players past their prime and players with ability that you wonder they belong here. And that is the reason why we've seen so many bizarre ends and turn-arounds. This has been, for me, the most frustrating IPL to watch," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Manjrekar's words were recorded after the finish of the second Qualifier between KKR and Delhi Capitals (DC) that Morgan's team won by three wickets in a nail-biting finish. Set 136 for victory, Kolkata looked to be easing towards victory before five quick wickets forced a thrilling finish. With seven needed off the last over, Rahul Tripathi (12 not out) hit a six on the second last ball of the over to guide his side home.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-india-pakistan-to-england-west-indies-reliving-5-humdingers-in-t20-world-cup-420716"><strong>From India-Pakistan to England-West Indies: Reliving 5 humdingers in T20 World Cup</strong></a></p>

<p>However, if we talk about the IPL 2021 final then both teams are led by two successful skippers as between them they have won every major title on offer. Morgan led England to victory in the 2019 50-over World Cup. On the other hand, Dhoni masterminded India's wins. He was India's captain when they won the Twenty20 World Cup in 2007 and the 2011 50-over title.</p>


As MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are all set to take on Eoin Morgan's Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the final of Indian Premier League 2021, former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar expressed his thoughts over the quality of cricket throughout the season.

As MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are all set to take on Eoin Morgan's Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the final of Indian Premier League 2021, former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar expressed his thoughts over the quality of cricket throughout the season. Manjrekar highlighted the performances by players who are "ordinary" and are "past their prime" in the 14th edition of the cash-rich league and also mentioned why there were so many "bizarre" ends and "turn-arounds". He further opined why this season has been the "most frustrating" IPL to watch for him. "I've followed the IPL very closely, but this has been a very unique IPL. Because we have seen some quality players, but we have also seen a large number of guys who are either ability-wise quite ordinary to begin with or players who are past their prime. So, we have seen a lot of those kinds of players in the IPL and we have seen some bizarre results and performances," Manjrekar said during a show on ESPNcricinfo.com. ALSO READ | WATCH: 'We don't have a keeper like MS Dhoni' - Virat Kohli teases Rishabh Pant in T20 World Cup promo "You've got these very good players and then there is a huge chunk of out-of-form players, players past their prime and players with ability that you wonder they belong here. And that is the reason why we've seen so many bizarre ends and turn-arounds. This has been, for me, the most frustrating IPL to watch," he added. Manjrekar's words were recorded after the finish of the second Qualifier between KKR and Delhi Capitals (DC) that Morgan's team won by three wickets in a nail-biting finish. Set 136 for victory, Kolkata looked to be easing towards victory before five quick wickets forced a thrilling finish. With seven needed off the last over, Rahul Tripathi (12 not out) hit a six on the second last ball of the over to guide his side home. ALSO READ | From India-Pakistan to England-West Indies: Reliving 5 humdingers in T20 World Cup However, if we talk about the IPL 2021 final then both teams are led by two successful skippers as between them they have won every major title on offer. Morgan led England to victory in the 2019 50-over World Cup. On the other hand, Dhoni masterminded India's wins. He was India's captain when they won the Twenty20 World Cup in 2007 and the 2011 50-over title.

Here's why Sanjay Manjrekar feels IPL 2021 has been 'most frustrating' to watch

<p>Former India opener Gautam Gambhir has given his take on the captaincy debate between MS Dhoni and Eoin Morgan ahead of the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 final between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Both Dhoni and Morgan have not had great seasons on the personal front and have underperformed despite their respective sides managing to make it to the summit clash of the tournament.</p>

<p>Dhoni and Morgan have been brilliant with their captaincy but have failed to deliver consistently with the bat. Dhoni, who retired from international cricket last year, has struggled to find his rhythm and has so far managed to score 114 runs in 15 matches this season. Morgan too has had an underwhelming season and has amassed only 129 runs in 15 matches.</p>

<p>However, they have both managed to inspire their respective sides into the final of the tournament and now stand a step away from clinching the elusive trophy. While sharing his views on the captaincy debate ahead of the IPL 2021 final, Gambhir said it will be wrong to compare Dhoni and Morgan as the CSK captain has already retired from international cricket and it's understood that he will struggle due to lack of regular game time.</p>

<p>Gambhir feels a retired Dhoni has performed well with the bat and as a captain that Morgan, who leads England in limited-overs cricket.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Comparing their forms is very wrong in itself because MS Dhoni has retired from international cricket and the second player is the captain of his national team. You should not compare apples with oranges,"&nbsp;Gambhir said on <em>ESPNCricinfo</em>.</p>

<p>"MS Dhoni hasn't played international cricket for so long and it's acceptable if he's not in form or is contributing less. But on the other hand, Morgan is playing international cricket. Still, if you look at their performances, MS Dhoni has performed better than Morgan even with the bat," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-vs-kkr-ipl-2021-final-record-alert-ms-dhoni-set-to-become-first-captain-to-lead-in-300-t20s-420934">IPL 2021 final - RECORD ALERT! MS Dhoni set to become first captain to lead in 300 T20s</a></strong></p>

<p>While CSK had a comfortable run to the playoffs, becoming the first team to seal a spot in the top this season, Morgan's KKR sparked a dramatic turnaround by winning five out of their seven games in the UAE leg to become the last team to enter playoffs.</p>

<p>KKR then got the better of Royal Challengers Bangalore and Delhi Capitals to reach the final where they will be up against nine-time finalists CSK at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai. It remains to be seen who will come out on top in the battle between Dhoni and Morgan.</p>


Former India opener Gautam Gambhir has given his take on the captaincy debate between MS Dhoni and Eoin Morgan ahead of the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 final between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).

Former India opener Gautam Gambhir has given his take on the captaincy debate between MS Dhoni and Eoin Morgan ahead of the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 final between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Both Dhoni and Morgan have not had great seasons on the personal front and have underperformed despite their respective sides managing to make it to the summit clash of the tournament. Dhoni and Morgan have been brilliant with their captaincy but have failed to deliver consistently with the bat. Dhoni, who retired from international cricket last year, has struggled to find his rhythm and has so far managed to score 114 runs in 15 matches this season. Morgan too has had an underwhelming season and has amassed only 129 runs in 15 matches. However, they have both managed to inspire their respective sides into the final of the tournament and now stand a step away from clinching the elusive trophy. While sharing his views on the captaincy debate ahead of the IPL 2021 final, Gambhir said it will be wrong to compare Dhoni and Morgan as the CSK captain has already retired from international cricket and it's understood that he will struggle due to lack of regular game time. Gambhir feels a retired Dhoni has performed well with the bat and as a captain that Morgan, who leads England in limited-overs cricket. "Comparing their forms is very wrong in itself because MS Dhoni has retired from international cricket and the second player is the captain of his national team. You should not compare apples with oranges," Gambhir said on ESPNCricinfo. "MS Dhoni hasn't played international cricket for so long and it's acceptable if he's not in form or is contributing less. But on the other hand, Morgan is playing international cricket. Still, if you look at their performances, MS Dhoni has performed better than Morgan even with the bat," he added. Also Read: IPL 2021 final - RECORD ALERT! MS Dhoni set to become first captain to lead in 300 T20s While CSK had a comfortable run to the playoffs, becoming the first team to seal a spot in the top this season, Morgan's KKR sparked a dramatic turnaround by winning five out of their seven games in the UAE leg to become the last team to enter playoffs. KKR then got the better of Royal Challengers Bangalore and Delhi Capitals to reach the final where they will be up against nine-time finalists CSK at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai. It remains to be seen who will come out on top in the battle between Dhoni and Morgan.

Retired MS Dhoni has performed better than Eoin Morgan: Gautam Gambhir on captaincy debate ahead of IPL final

<p>MS Dhoni remains a legendary name in world cricket. The Jharkhand-born cricketer made his international debut in 2004 and retired from the highest level on August 15, 2020. Despite his retirement, he remains a big name in the cricketing fraternity and the 40-year-old is gearing up for his 10th IPL final as the three-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are set to lock horns with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the IPL 2021 finale, on Friday (October 15).</p>

<p>Ahead of the summit clash of the 14th edition, Dhoni is set to attain a massive record. The legendary CSK captain will become the first player to captain in 300 T20s when he takes on the field for the Yellow Army versus Eoin Morgan-led KKR, at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kkr-vs-csk-ipl-2021-final-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-kolkata-vs-chennai-match-420907"><strong>KKR vs CSK, IPL 2021 Final Live Streaming: When and where to watch Kolkata vs Chennai match?</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>Most matches as captain in T20s</strong></p>

<p><strong>MS Dhoni - 299 (Won - 176, Lost- 118)</strong><br />
Daren Sammy - 208 (W- 104, L- 97)<br />
Virat Kohli - 185 (W- 91, L-83)<br />
Gautam Gambhir - 170 (W- 98, L-70)<br />
Rohit Sharma - 153 (W- 94, L-55)</p>

<p>Talking about Dhoni's T20 career, the veteran wicketkeeper-batsman has amassed a staggering 6,935 runs at 38.31 with 27 half-centuries. As a captain, the former Team India and current CSK skipper has won every major title in the shortest format -- T20 World Cup, 2016 Asia Cup T20, Champions League (CLT20), IPL (thrice). The retired international cricketer will, thus, be desperate to win his fourth IPL trophy with the Chennai line-up in what will be his 300th T20 game as captain.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-vs-kkr-ipl-2021-final-prediction-who-will-win-chennai-super-kings-vs-kolkata-knight-riders-clash-420899"><strong>CSK vs KKR, IPL 2021 final prediction: Who will win Chennai Super Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders clash?</strong></a></p>

<p>In IPL 2021, Dhoni hasn't done anything extraordinary with the bat. However, he came to his own and finished the game in style for CSK in Qualifier 1 -- versus Delhi Capitals (DC) -- with a quickfire 6-ball 18* whereas his keeping and captaincy remains a potent weapon for the Yellow Army. Will he take CSK to their fourth title in his&nbsp;landmark game as&nbsp;captain? Only time will tell..</p>


MS Dhoni remains a legendary name in world cricket. The Jharkhand-born cricketer made his international debut in 2004 and retired from the highest level on August 15, 2020.

MS Dhoni remains a legendary name in world cricket. The Jharkhand-born cricketer made his international debut in 2004 and retired from the highest level on August 15, 2020. Despite his retirement, he remains a big name in the cricketing fraternity and the 40-year-old is gearing up for his 10th IPL final as the three-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are set to lock horns with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the IPL 2021 finale, on Friday (October 15). Ahead of the summit clash of the 14th edition, Dhoni is set to attain a massive record. The legendary CSK captain will become the first player to captain in 300 T20s when he takes on the field for the Yellow Army versus Eoin Morgan-led KKR, at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. ALSO READ | KKR vs CSK, IPL 2021 Final Live Streaming: When and where to watch Kolkata vs Chennai match? Most matches as captain in T20s MS Dhoni - 299 (Won - 176, Lost- 118) Daren Sammy - 208 (W- 104, L- 97) Virat Kohli - 185 (W- 91, L-83) Gautam Gambhir - 170 (W- 98, L-70) Rohit Sharma - 153 (W- 94, L-55) Talking about Dhoni's T20 career, the veteran wicketkeeper-batsman has amassed a staggering 6,935 runs at 38.31 with 27 half-centuries. As a captain, the former Team India and current CSK skipper has won every major title in the shortest format -- T20 World Cup, 2016 Asia Cup T20, Champions League (CLT20), IPL (thrice). The retired international cricketer will, thus, be desperate to win his fourth IPL trophy with the Chennai line-up in what will be his 300th T20 game as captain. ALSO READ | CSK vs KKR, IPL 2021 final prediction: Who will win Chennai Super Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders clash? In IPL 2021, Dhoni hasn't done anything extraordinary with the bat. However, he came to his own and finished the game in style for CSK in Qualifier 1 -- versus Delhi Capitals (DC) -- with a quickfire 6-ball 18* whereas his keeping and captaincy remains a potent weapon for the Yellow Army. Will he take CSK to their fourth title in his landmark game as captain? Only time will tell..

CSK vs KKR, IPL 2021 final: RECORD ALERT! MS Dhoni set to become first captain to lead in 300 T20s

<p>MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will be gunning for their fourth Indian Premier League (IPL) title when they lock horns with Eoin Morgan-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the final of IPL 2021 on Friday (October 15). Two of the finest captains of the modern era, Dhoni and Morgan will be battling for supremacy at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai.</p>

<p>KKR and CSK have had contrasting campaigns in IPL 2021 so far. While Dhoni &amp; Co. finished second on the table during the league stages and qualified for the playoffs comfortably, KKR won five of their seven matches in the UAE leg to enter the playoffs despite a woeful start to the season.</p>

<p>CSK were the first to secure a spot in the final of IPL 2021 after defeating the Delhi Capitals in the first Qualifier. KKR, on the other hand, registered back-to-back wins in the playoffs. The Morgan-led side defeated Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Eliminator before beating Delhi Capitals in the second Qualifier to book a spot in the final against CSK.</p>

<p>CSK will be playing their ninth final while KKR will be up in their third final in the IPL. CSK have so far won three trophies while KKR have two titles under their belt and will be looking to equal CSK's tally with a victory in Dubai on Friday. The final promises to be a blockbuster affair.</p>

<p><strong>Here is all you need to know about the IPL 2021 final between CSK and KKR:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Head to head:</strong></p>

<p>CSK enjoy a clear edge over Kolkata Knight Riders when it comes to the head-to-head record between the two sides. MS Dhoni &amp; Co. have won 16 matches out of 24 meetings against KKR. KKR had defeated CSK in the last meeting between the two sides in a final.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-beyond-me-how-captaincy-was-given-to-rishabh-pant-sanju-samson-opines-sanjay-manjrekar-420668">Beyond me how captaincy was given to Rishabh Pant, Sanju Samson, opines Sanjay Manjrekar</a></p>

<p><strong>Stats:</strong></p>

<p>CSK opener Ruturaj Gaikwad has been enjoying a purple patch in IPL 2021 and stands just 23 runs away from toppling KL Rahul on top of the list of highest run-getters this season. Gaikwad has 603 runs from 15 matches this season and will be looking to clinch the Orange Cap in the final.</p>

<p><strong>Trivia:</strong></p>

<p>Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have been unbeaten this season against Kolkata Knight Riders. However, the last time when KKR and CSK met in a final, KKR had emerged on top in 2016. CSK will be hoping to exact their revenge this season.</p>

<p><strong>Squads:</strong></p>

<p><strong>Chennai Super Kings: </strong>Ruturaj Gaikwad, Faf du Plessis, Robin Uthappa, Moeen Ali, Ambati Rayudu, MS Dhoni(w/c), Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Dwayne Bravo, Deepak Chahar, Josh Hazlewood, Suresh Raina, Cheteshwar Pujara, Karn Sharma, Imran Tahir, Jason Behrendorff, Krishnappa Gowtham, Lungi Ngidi, Mitchell Santner, Ravisrinivasan Sai Kishore, Hari Nishanth, N Jagadeesan, KM Asif, Harishankar Reddy, Dominic Drakes, Bhagath Varma<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Kolkata Knight Riders: </strong>Shubman Gill, Venkatesh Iyer, Nitish Rana, Rahul Tripathi, Dinesh Karthik(w), Eoin Morgan(c), Shakib Al Hasan, Sunil Narine, Lockie Ferguson, Shivam Mavi, Varun Chakravarthy, Andre Russell, Harbhajan Singh, Tim Southee, Ben Cutting, Karun Nair, Pawan Negi, Kuldeep Yadav, Gurkeerat Singh Mann, Sheldon Jackson, Sandeep Warrier, Tim Seifert, Prasidh Krishna, Rinku Singh, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Vaibhav Arora</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will be gunning for their fourth Indian Premier League (IPL) title when they lock horns with Eoin Morgan-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the final of IPL 2021 on Friday (October 15).

MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will be gunning for their fourth Indian Premier League (IPL) title when they lock horns with Eoin Morgan-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the final of IPL 2021 on Friday (October 15). Two of the finest captains of the modern era, Dhoni and Morgan will be battling for supremacy at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai. KKR and CSK have had contrasting campaigns in IPL 2021 so far. While Dhoni & Co. finished second on the table during the league stages and qualified for the playoffs comfortably, KKR won five of their seven matches in the UAE leg to enter the playoffs despite a woeful start to the season. CSK were the first to secure a spot in the final of IPL 2021 after defeating the Delhi Capitals in the first Qualifier. KKR, on the other hand, registered back-to-back wins in the playoffs. The Morgan-led side defeated Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Eliminator before beating Delhi Capitals in the second Qualifier to book a spot in the final against CSK. CSK will be playing their ninth final while KKR will be up in their third final in the IPL. CSK have so far won three trophies while KKR have two titles under their belt and will be looking to equal CSK's tally with a victory in Dubai on Friday. The final promises to be a blockbuster affair. Here is all you need to know about the IPL 2021 final between CSK and KKR: Head to head: CSK enjoy a clear edge over Kolkata Knight Riders when it comes to the head-to-head record between the two sides. MS Dhoni & Co. have won 16 matches out of 24 meetings against KKR. KKR had defeated CSK in the last meeting between the two sides in a final. Also Read: Beyond me how captaincy was given to Rishabh Pant, Sanju Samson, opines Sanjay Manjrekar Stats: CSK opener Ruturaj Gaikwad has been enjoying a purple patch in IPL 2021 and stands just 23 runs away from toppling KL Rahul on top of the list of highest run-getters this season. Gaikwad has 603 runs from 15 matches this season and will be looking to clinch the Orange Cap in the final. Trivia: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have been unbeaten this season against Kolkata Knight Riders. However, the last time when KKR and CSK met in a final, KKR had emerged on top in 2016. CSK will be hoping to exact their revenge this season. Squads: Chennai Super Kings: Ruturaj Gaikwad, Faf du Plessis, Robin Uthappa, Moeen Ali, Ambati Rayudu, MS Dhoni(w/c), Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Dwayne Bravo, Deepak Chahar, Josh Hazlewood, Suresh Raina, Cheteshwar Pujara, Karn Sharma, Imran Tahir, Jason Behrendorff, Krishnappa Gowtham, Lungi Ngidi, Mitchell Santner, Ravisrinivasan Sai Kishore, Hari Nishanth, N Jagadeesan, KM Asif, Harishankar Reddy, Dominic Drakes, Bhagath Varma Kolkata Knight Riders: Shubman Gill, Venkatesh Iyer, Nitish Rana, Rahul Tripathi, Dinesh Karthik(w), Eoin Morgan(c), Shakib Al Hasan, Sunil Narine, Lockie Ferguson, Shivam Mavi, Varun Chakravarthy, Andre Russell, Harbhajan Singh, Tim Southee, Ben Cutting, Karun Nair, Pawan Negi, Kuldeep Yadav, Gurkeerat Singh Mann, Sheldon Jackson, Sandeep Warrier, Tim Seifert, Prasidh Krishna, Rinku Singh, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Vaibhav Arora

IPL 2021 final: CSK vs KKR - Head to head record, trivia, stats and squads

<p>The IPL 2021 edition's final is upon us. After 59 enthralling games, the stage is set for a blockbuster finish as the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will lock horns with the two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the summit clash, which will be held at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Friday evening (October 15).</p>

<p>Both CSK and KKR have had contrasting yet impressive seasons. CSK reached the final after ending as the second-best side in the league stage and beating Delhi Capitals (DC) in Qualifier 1. KKR, on the other hand, bounced back in style in the second and final leg -- in the UAE -- to end at the fourth position and then defeated Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and DC,&nbsp;in the Eliminator and&nbsp;Qualifier 2 respectively, to book the final's ticket.</p>

<p>Both CSK and KKR have met twice this season, with Dhoni &amp; Co. emerging on top in both occasions. However, KKR have never lost an IPL final (winning in 2012 and 2014). Thus, it is expected to be a mouth-watering finale.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-vs-kkr-ipl-2021-final-prediction-who-will-win-chennai-super-kings-vs-kolkata-knight-riders-clash-420899"><strong>CSK vs KKR, IPL 2021 final prediction: Who will win Chennai Super Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders clash?</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Where is the IPL 2021 final between Kolkata Knight Riders vs Chennai Super Kings taking place?</strong><br />
The IPL 2021 final between Kolkata Knight Riders vs Chennai Super Kings will take place at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.</p>

<p><strong>What time does the IPL 2021 final between Kolkata Knight Riders vs Chennai Super Kings begin?</strong><br />
The IPL 2021 final between Kolkata Knight Riders vs Chennai Super Kings begins at 7:30 PM IST on Friday, October 15.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-final-michael-vaughan-predicts-one-big-change-in-kkr-line-up-ahead-of-csk-face-off-420748"><strong>IPL 2021 final: Michael Vaughan predicts one BIG change in KKR line-up ahead of CSK face-off</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>Where and how to watch live coverage of the IPL 2021 final between Kolkata Knight Riders vs Chennai Super Kings?</strong></p>

<p>The IPL 2021 final between Kolkata Knight Riders vs Chennai Super Kings will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 3 and Star Sports 3 HD. The online streaming of the IPL 2021 match between KKR vs CSK will be available on Hotstar.</p>


The IPL 2021 edition's final is upon us. After 59 enthralling games, the stage is set for a blockbuster finish as the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will lock horns with the two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the summit clash, which will be held at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Friday evening (October 15).

The IPL 2021 edition's final is upon us. After 59 enthralling games, the stage is set for a blockbuster finish as the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will lock horns with the two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the summit clash, which will be held at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Friday evening (October 15). Both CSK and KKR have had contrasting yet impressive seasons. CSK reached the final after ending as the second-best side in the league stage and beating Delhi Capitals (DC) in Qualifier 1. KKR, on the other hand, bounced back in style in the second and final leg -- in the UAE -- to end at the fourth position and then defeated Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and DC, in the Eliminator and Qualifier 2 respectively, to book the final's ticket. Both CSK and KKR have met twice this season, with Dhoni & Co. emerging on top in both occasions. However, KKR have never lost an IPL final (winning in 2012 and 2014). Thus, it is expected to be a mouth-watering finale. ALSO READ | CSK vs KKR, IPL 2021 final prediction: Who will win Chennai Super Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders clash? Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match: Where is the IPL 2021 final between Kolkata Knight Riders vs Chennai Super Kings taking place? The IPL 2021 final between Kolkata Knight Riders vs Chennai Super Kings will take place at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. What time does the IPL 2021 final between Kolkata Knight Riders vs Chennai Super Kings begin? The IPL 2021 final between Kolkata Knight Riders vs Chennai Super Kings begins at 7:30 PM IST on Friday, October 15. ALSO READ | IPL 2021 final: Michael Vaughan predicts one BIG change in KKR line-up ahead of CSK face-off Where and how to watch live coverage of the IPL 2021 final between Kolkata Knight Riders vs Chennai Super Kings? The IPL 2021 final between Kolkata Knight Riders vs Chennai Super Kings will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 3 and Star Sports 3 HD. The online streaming of the IPL 2021 match between KKR vs CSK will be available on Hotstar.

KKR vs CSK, IPL 2021 Final Live Streaming: When and where to watch Kolkata vs Chennai match?

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<p>With a stunning six off the penultimate ball, Rahul Tripathi of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) inspired his side to register a win against Delhi Capitals (DC) and reached the final of Indian Premier League 2021, where they will meet three-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK).&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the second Qualifier, KKR opted to bowl first and restricted Delhi to 135 for 5 at Sharjah. Venkatesh Iyer (55) and Shubman Gill (46) then shared 96 runs for the opening wicket but KKR lost five wickets, adding just seven runs to stare at defeat. But Tripathi smashed the much-needed six to snatch a win from the jaws of defeat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the match, KKR players celebrated the win as videos and pictures of the same went viral on social media forums. Young KKR stars such as Shubman Gill, Venkatesh Iyer and Nitish Rana were spotted with a giant custom-built cake.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-delhi-capitals-players-dejected-after-losing-to-kkr-video-of-emotional-prithvi-shaw-goes-viral-420551">IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals players dejected after losing to KKR, video of emotional Prithvi Shaw goes viral</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:</strong></p>

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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-kolkata-knight-riders-players-erupt-in-joy-after-a-sensational-win-against-delhi-capitals-watch-420554">IPL 2021: Kolkata Knight Riders players erupt in joy after a sensational win against Delhi Capitals - Watch</a></strong></p>

<p>Despite the final berth, KKR skipper Eoin Morgan admitted that the win "should've been a lot easier" after the good start. "We are delighted to get over the line. We are in the entertainment business and needed to play some entertaining cricket. Six off two and you would say the odds are for the bowling side. But Tripathi has done it for us so many times." Morgan said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The match went down to the wire, as set 136 for victory, Kolkata looked to be easing towards victory thanks to fine knocks from openers Venkatesh Iyer (55) and Shubman Gill (46) before five quick wickets forced a thrilling finish.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With seven needed off the last over, Ravichandran Ashwin removed Shakib Al Hasan and Sunil Narine off successive deliveries but Rahul Tripathi (12 not out) hit the off-spinner over his head for six to guide his side home with a ball to spare.&nbsp;</p>


With a stunning six off the penultimate ball, Rahul Tripathi of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) inspired his side to register a win against Delhi Capitals (DC) and reached the final of Indian Premier League 2021, where they will meet three-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

With a stunning six off the penultimate ball, Rahul Tripathi of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) inspired his side to register a win against Delhi Capitals (DC) and reached the final of Indian Premier League 2021, where they will meet three-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK). During the second Qualifier, KKR opted to bowl first and restricted Delhi to 135 for 5 at Sharjah. Venkatesh Iyer (55) and Shubman Gill (46) then shared 96 runs for the opening wicket but KKR lost five wickets, adding just seven runs to stare at defeat. But Tripathi smashed the much-needed six to snatch a win from the jaws of defeat. After the match, KKR players celebrated the win as videos and pictures of the same went viral on social media forums. Young KKR stars such as Shubman Gill, Venkatesh Iyer and Nitish Rana were spotted with a giant custom-built cake. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals players dejected after losing to KKR, video of emotional Prithvi Shaw goes viral Watch the video here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kolkata Knight Riders (@kkriders) × ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Kolkata Knight Riders players erupt in joy after a sensational win against Delhi Capitals - Watch Despite the final berth, KKR skipper Eoin Morgan admitted that the win "should've been a lot easier" after the good start. "We are delighted to get over the line. We are in the entertainment business and needed to play some entertaining cricket. Six off two and you would say the odds are for the bowling side. But Tripathi has done it for us so many times." Morgan said. The match went down to the wire, as set 136 for victory, Kolkata looked to be easing towards victory thanks to fine knocks from openers Venkatesh Iyer (55) and Shubman Gill (46) before five quick wickets forced a thrilling finish. With seven needed off the last over, Ravichandran Ashwin removed Shakib Al Hasan and Sunil Narine off successive deliveries but Rahul Tripathi (12 not out) hit the off-spinner over his head for six to guide his side home with a ball to spare.

Watch: Here's how Kolkata Knight Riders players celebrated the epic win over Delhi Capitals

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<p>Delhi Capitals (DC) skipper Rishabh Pant was lost for words after his side failed to book a berth in the IPL 2021 final post&nbsp;Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) defeat in a very close clash on Wednesday (October 13).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Delhi topped the eight-team table but failed to reach the final despite a late comeback when they took four Kolkata wickets in 10 balls including England captain Eoin Morgan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the post-match presentation, Pant said, "I don't have words to express at the moment, can't tell anything. We just kept believing, tried to stay in the game as long as possible. The bowlers nearly pulled it back, but it's unfortunate that it didn't go our way."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-delhi-capitals-players-dejected-after-losing-to-kkr-video-of-emotional-prithvi-shaw-goes-viral-420551">IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals players dejected after losing to KKR, video of emotional Prithvi Shaw goes viral</a></strong></p>

<p>"They bowled very well in the middle-overs, we got stuck and couldn't rotate strike. Delhi Capitals are known to be positive and hopefully we'll come back better next season," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We played really good cricket, yes, there will be ups and downs, but we'll stay posit,ive, be there for each other, care for each other and hopefully we'll come back better next season," Pant said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-kieron-pollard-says-west-indies-will-continue-taking-a-knee-in-support-of-blm-movement-420495">T20 World Cup: Kieron Pollard says West Indies will 'continue' taking a knee in support of BLM movement</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A match worthy of IPL folklore 🙌🏼<br />
<br />
Good game, <a href="https://twitter.com/KKRiders?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KKRiders</a> 💙💜<br />
<br />
Here's wishing the Knights and <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a> good luck for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> Final 🙌🏼<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YehHaiNayiDilli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YehHaiNayiDilli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKRvDC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKRvDC</a> <a href="https://t.co/DlD1HcP6NV">pic.twitter.com/DlD1HcP6NV</a></p>
— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/1448374921680199680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">One game, two emotions 📸📸<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Qualifier2?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Qualifier2</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKRvDC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKRvDC</a> <a href="https://t.co/fjgJxXkQrl">pic.twitter.com/fjgJxXkQrl</a></p>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1448351707033784327?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>In the match, KKR opted to bowl and dished out another superlative bowling display to restrict Delhi Capitals to 135 for 5 on a slow Sharjah track.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Venkatesh Iyer (55) and Shubman Gill (46) then shared 96 runs for the opening wicket but KKR lost five wickets, adding just seven runs to stare at defeat. But Tripathi smashed the much-needed six to snatch win from the jaws of defeat.</p>

<p>Earlier, invited to bat, DC opener Shikhar Dhawan struggled his way to a 39-ball 36 but couldn't break the shackles. Prithvi Shaw (18) looked good in his brief stay, while comeback man Marcus Stoinis (18) got the start but couldn't capitalise on it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the 18th over, Shimron Hetmyer (17) unleashed two sixes off Lockie Ferguson after getting a second lease of life, while Shreyas Iyer (30 not out) hit a four and a last-ball six in the 20th over to take DC to a competitive score.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Delhi Capitals (DC) skipper Rishabh Pant was lost for words after his side failed to book a berth in the IPL 2021 final post Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) defeat in a very close clash on Wednesday (October 13).

Delhi Capitals (DC) skipper Rishabh Pant was lost for words after his side failed to book a berth in the IPL 2021 final post Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) defeat in a very close clash on Wednesday (October 13). Delhi topped the eight-team table but failed to reach the final despite a late comeback when they took four Kolkata wickets in 10 balls including England captain Eoin Morgan. During the post-match presentation, Pant said, "I don't have words to express at the moment, can't tell anything. We just kept believing, tried to stay in the game as long as possible. The bowlers nearly pulled it back, but it's unfortunate that it didn't go our way." ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals players dejected after losing to KKR, video of emotional Prithvi Shaw goes viral "They bowled very well in the middle-overs, we got stuck and couldn't rotate strike. Delhi Capitals are known to be positive and hopefully we'll come back better next season," he added. "We played really good cricket, yes, there will be ups and downs, but we'll stay posit,ive, be there for each other, care for each other and hopefully we'll come back better next season," Pant said. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup: Kieron Pollard says West Indies will 'continue' taking a knee in support of BLM movement A match worthy of IPL folklore 🙌🏼 Good game, @KKRiders 💙💜 Here's wishing the Knights and @ChennaiIPL good luck for the #IPL2021 Final 🙌🏼#YehHaiNayiDilli #KKRvDC pic.twitter.com/DlD1HcP6NV — Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) October 13, 2021 × One game, two emotions 📸📸#VIVOIPL | #Qualifier2 | #KKRvDC pic.twitter.com/fjgJxXkQrl — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) October 13, 2021 × In the match, KKR opted to bowl and dished out another superlative bowling display to restrict Delhi Capitals to 135 for 5 on a slow Sharjah track. Venkatesh Iyer (55) and Shubman Gill (46) then shared 96 runs for the opening wicket but KKR lost five wickets, adding just seven runs to stare at defeat. But Tripathi smashed the much-needed six to snatch win from the jaws of defeat. Earlier, invited to bat, DC opener Shikhar Dhawan struggled his way to a 39-ball 36 but couldn't break the shackles. Prithvi Shaw (18) looked good in his brief stay, while comeback man Marcus Stoinis (18) got the start but couldn't capitalise on it. In the 18th over, Shimron Hetmyer (17) unleashed two sixes off Lockie Ferguson after getting a second lease of life, while Shreyas Iyer (30 not out) hit a four and a last-ball six in the 20th over to take DC to a competitive score. (With inputs from agencies)

IPL 2021: Rishabh Pant doesn't 'have words to express' after 'unfortunate' loss against KKR in Qualifier 2

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<p>Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) set up the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-kkr-set-up-title-clash-with-csk-after-defeating-delhi-capitals-in-a-last-over-thriller-420529">final clash of Indian Premier League 2021</a> with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) after defeating Delhi Capitals (DC) by three wickets in the second qualifier on Wednesday (October 13).&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an absolute sensational way, KKR's Rahul Tripathi smashed a six in the penultimate ball to inspire his side to enter the final. Venkatesh Iyer struck a&nbsp;half-century that helped KKR to overcome a late wobble.&nbsp;</p>

<p>KKR needed 136 to win and looked in control of the match after fine knocks from openers Iyer (55) and Shubman Gill (46) before five quick wickets forced a thrilling finish.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-kieron-pollard-says-west-indies-will-continue-taking-a-knee-in-support-of-blm-movement-420495">T20 World Cup: Kieron Pollard says West Indies will 'continue' taking a knee in support of BLM movement</a></strong></p>

<p>With seven needed off the last over, DC's Ravichandran Ashwin removed Shakib Al Hasan and Sunil Narine off successive deliveries but Tripathi (12 not out) struck a sixer and stole the show.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There was a moment when it appeared that Rishabh Pant's side might have managed a stunning comeback, however, they lost the match. Delhi players were dejected as the video of a teary-eyed&nbsp;Prithvi Shaw went viral. During the post-match presentation, Pant also looked emotional.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Well played Delhi 💪👍<br />
Ashwin anna 🙏🔥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DCvsKKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DCvsKKR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DCvKKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DCvKKR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PrithviShaw?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PrithviShaw</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DelhiCapitals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DelhiCapitals</a> <a href="https://t.co/OlCsysVcEx">pic.twitter.com/OlCsysVcEx</a></p>
— Rahul Trimbak Munde (@MundeRahul25) <a href="https://twitter.com/MundeRahul25/status/1448344918112366593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">Prithvi Shaw :( <a href="https://t.co/T4ebg7SbKl">pic.twitter.com/T4ebg7SbKl</a></p>
— Ryan (@ryandesa_07) <a href="https://twitter.com/ryandesa_07/status/1448346332414971912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Feel so bad for this man Rishabh Pant. He got emotional, tears in his eyes. Don't disappoint Champion, this just beginning, much success is coming in the future. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKRvDC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKRvDC</a> <a href="https://t.co/bVUlHqii4i">pic.twitter.com/bVUlHqii4i</a></p>
— CricketMAN2 (@man4_cricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/man4_cricket/status/1448348263040516098?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">You gotta feel sad for Rishabh Pant's Delhi. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RishabhPant?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RishabhPant</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PrithviShaw?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PrithviShaw</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kolkata?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kolkata</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BetBarter?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BetBarter</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Socialmedia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Socialmedia</a> <a href="https://t.co/1dszoxnGKi">pic.twitter.com/1dszoxnGKi</a></p>
— Bet Barter (@BetBarteronline) <a href="https://twitter.com/BetBarteronline/status/1448354750630486025?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Switched off TV.. Unable to see our boys crying . Doesn’t matter which team it is.. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Indian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Indian</a> players shouldn’t cry .. Heartbreaking moments 💔 . Stay strong boys .. Always another match will come to prove <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DCvsKKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DCvsKKR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKRvDC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKRvDC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PrithviShaw?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PrithviShaw</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RishabhPant17</a></p>
— Arun Thokai Vishakan (@combocreator) <a href="https://twitter.com/combocreator/status/1448346756647821316?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Delhi were made to pay for a costly drop in the fifth over when Kagiso Rabada grassed a caught-and-bowled chance off Iyer, who hit four fours and three sixes in his third fifty in this season's IPL.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, Delhi struggled for momentum after being put into bat on a slow pitch, losing regular wickets following a brisk opening stand between Shikhar Dhawan (36) and Prithvi Shaw (18).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-shardul-thakur-replaces-axar-patel-to-join-team-indias-main-squad-420432">T20 World Cup: Shardul Thakur replaces Axar Patel to join Team India's main squad</a></strong></p>

<p>After the match&nbsp;Pant said, "I don't have words to express at the moment, can't tell anything. We just kept believing, tried to stay in the game as long as possible. The bowlers nearly pulled it back, but it's unfortunate that it didn't go our way."</p>

<p>"They bowled very well in the middle-overs, we got stuck and couldn't rotate strike. Delhi Capitals are known to be positive and hopefully we'll come back better next season," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We played really good cricket, yes, there will be ups and downs, but we'll stay positive, be there for each other, care for each other and hopefully we'll come back better next season," Pant said.&nbsp;</p>


Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) set up the final clash of Indian Premier League 2021 with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) after defeating Delhi Capitals (DC) by three wickets in the second qualifier on Wednesday (October 13).

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) set up the final clash of Indian Premier League 2021 with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) after defeating Delhi Capitals (DC) by three wickets in the second qualifier on Wednesday (October 13). In an absolute sensational way, KKR's Rahul Tripathi smashed a six in the penultimate ball to inspire his side to enter the final. Venkatesh Iyer struck a half-century that helped KKR to overcome a late wobble. KKR needed 136 to win and looked in control of the match after fine knocks from openers Iyer (55) and Shubman Gill (46) before five quick wickets forced a thrilling finish. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup: Kieron Pollard says West Indies will 'continue' taking a knee in support of BLM movement With seven needed off the last over, DC's Ravichandran Ashwin removed Shakib Al Hasan and Sunil Narine off successive deliveries but Tripathi (12 not out) struck a sixer and stole the show. There was a moment when it appeared that Rishabh Pant's side might have managed a stunning comeback, however, they lost the match. Delhi players were dejected as the video of a teary-eyed Prithvi Shaw went viral. During the post-match presentation, Pant also looked emotional. Watch the video here: Well played Delhi 💪👍 Ashwin anna 🙏🔥#DCvsKKR #DCvKKR #PrithviShaw #DelhiCapitals pic.twitter.com/OlCsysVcEx — Rahul Trimbak Munde (@MundeRahul25) October 13, 2021 × Prithvi Shaw :( pic.twitter.com/T4ebg7SbKl — Ryan (@ryandesa_07) October 13, 2021 × Feel so bad for this man Rishabh Pant. He got emotional, tears in his eyes. Don't disappoint Champion, this just beginning, much success is coming in the future. #KKRvDC pic.twitter.com/bVUlHqii4i — CricketMAN2 (@man4_cricket) October 13, 2021 × You gotta feel sad for Rishabh Pant's Delhi. #RishabhPant #PrithviShaw #Delhi #Kolkata #IPL2021 #Cricket #BetBarter #Socialmedia pic.twitter.com/1dszoxnGKi — Bet Barter (@BetBarteronline) October 13, 2021 × Switched off TV.. Unable to see our boys crying . Doesn’t matter which team it is.. #Indian players shouldn’t cry .. Heartbreaking moments 💔 . Stay strong boys .. Always another match will come to prove #DCvsKKR #KKRvDC #DC #KKR #IPL2021 @PrithviShaw @RishabhPant17 — Arun Thokai Vishakan (@combocreator) October 13, 2021 × Delhi were made to pay for a costly drop in the fifth over when Kagiso Rabada grassed a caught-and-bowled chance off Iyer, who hit four fours and three sixes in his third fifty in this season's IPL. Earlier, Delhi struggled for momentum after being put into bat on a slow pitch, losing regular wickets following a brisk opening stand between Shikhar Dhawan (36) and Prithvi Shaw (18). ALSO READ | T20 World Cup: Shardul Thakur replaces Axar Patel to join Team India's main squad After the match Pant said, "I don't have words to express at the moment, can't tell anything. We just kept believing, tried to stay in the game as long as possible. The bowlers nearly pulled it back, but it's unfortunate that it didn't go our way." "They bowled very well in the middle-overs, we got stuck and couldn't rotate strike. Delhi Capitals are known to be positive and hopefully we'll come back better next season," he added. "We played really good cricket, yes, there will be ups and downs, but we'll stay positive, be there for each other, care for each other and hopefully we'll come back better next season," Pant said.

IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals players dejected after losing to KKR, video of emotional Prithvi Shaw goes viral

<p>Eoin Morgan-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) entered the final of Indian Premier League 2021 after a stunning performance against Delhi Capitals (DC) on Wednesday (October 13), in a match that went down the wire. KKR's Rahul Tripathi hit a six off the second last ball to take his into the final, where they will face three-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK).&nbsp;</p>

<p>KKR opted to bowl first and dished out another superlative bowling display to restrict Delhi Capitals to 135 for 5 at Sharjah. Venkatesh Iyer (55) and Shubman Gill (46) then shared 96 runs for the opening wicket but KKR lost five wickets, adding just seven runs to stare at defeat. But Tripathi smashed the much-needed six to snatch win from the jaws of defeat.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-rishabh-pant-dont-have-words-to-express-after-unfortunate-loss-against-kkr-in-qualifier-2-420552">IPL 2021: Rishabh Pant 'don't have words to express' after 'unfortunate' loss against KKR in Qualifier 2</a></strong></p>

<p>After the match, KKR players erupted in joy as they were fourth in the table but still reached the final after beating Virat Kohli's Royal Challengers Bangalore and now Delhi in the playoffs, the celebratory video went viral. <strong>Watch it here:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">UNBELIEVABLE SCENES! 💜💛<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKRvDC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKRvDC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AmiKKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AmiKKR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://t.co/63s82sU4R2">pic.twitter.com/63s82sU4R2</a></p>
— KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) <a href="https://twitter.com/KKRiders/status/1448351668785999874?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">CELEBRATIONS. EMOTIONS. CRICKET. 💜💛<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKRvDC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKRvDC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AmiKKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AmiKKR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KorboLorboJeetbo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KorboLorboJeetbo</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E0%A6%86%E0%A6%AE%E0%A6%BFKKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#আমিKKR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://t.co/gEZcWgde4D">pic.twitter.com/gEZcWgde4D</a></p>
— KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) <a href="https://twitter.com/KKRiders/status/1448356153302269961?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We make it to the finals against Chennai Super Kings after a dramatic last over. 💜💛<br />
<br />
Full story ⤵️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKRvDC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKRvDC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AmiKKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AmiKKR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KorboLorboJeetbo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KorboLorboJeetbo</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E0%A6%86%E0%A6%AE%E0%A6%BFKKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#আমিKKR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a><a href="https://t.co/QadcUOC5ad">https://t.co/QadcUOC5ad</a></p>
— KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) <a href="https://twitter.com/KKRiders/status/1448356191818502144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Morgan admitted that the win "should've been a lot easier" after the good start. "We are delighted to get over the line. We are in the entertainment business and needed to play some entertaining cricket. Six off two and you would say the odds are for the bowling side. But Tripathi has done it for us so many times." Morgan said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-delhi-capitals-players-dejected-after-losing-to-kkr-video-of-emotional-prithvi-shaw-goes-viral-420551">IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals players dejected after losing to KKR, video of emotional Prithvi Shaw goes viral</a></strong></p>

<p>In the match, DC opener Shikhar Dhawan struggled his way to a 39-ball 36 but couldn't break the shackles. Prithvi Shaw (18) looked good in his brief stay, while comeback man Marcus Stoinis (18) got the start but couldn't capitalise on it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the 18th over, Shimron Hetmyer (17) unleashed two sixes off Lockie Ferguson after getting a second lease of life, while Shreyas Iyer (30 not out) hit a four and a last-ball six in the 20th over to take DC to a competitive score.</p>


Eoin Morgan-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) entered the final of Indian Premier League 2021 after a stunning performance against Delhi Capitals (DC) on Wednesday (October 13), in a match that went down the wire.

Eoin Morgan-led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) entered the final of Indian Premier League 2021 after a stunning performance against Delhi Capitals (DC) on Wednesday (October 13), in a match that went down the wire. KKR's Rahul Tripathi hit a six off the second last ball to take his into the final, where they will face three-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK). KKR opted to bowl first and dished out another superlative bowling display to restrict Delhi Capitals to 135 for 5 at Sharjah. Venkatesh Iyer (55) and Shubman Gill (46) then shared 96 runs for the opening wicket but KKR lost five wickets, adding just seven runs to stare at defeat. But Tripathi smashed the much-needed six to snatch win from the jaws of defeat. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Rishabh Pant 'don't have words to express' after 'unfortunate' loss against KKR in Qualifier 2 After the match, KKR players erupted in joy as they were fourth in the table but still reached the final after beating Virat Kohli's Royal Challengers Bangalore and now Delhi in the playoffs, the celebratory video went viral. Watch it here: UNBELIEVABLE SCENES! 💜💛#KKRvDC #KKR #AmiKKR #IPL2021 pic.twitter.com/63s82sU4R2 — KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) October 13, 2021 × CELEBRATIONS. EMOTIONS. CRICKET. 💜💛#KKR #KKRvDC #AmiKKR #KorboLorboJeetbo #আমিKKR #IPL2021 pic.twitter.com/gEZcWgde4D — KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) October 13, 2021 × We make it to the finals against Chennai Super Kings after a dramatic last over. 💜💛 Full story ⤵️#KKRvDC #KKR #AmiKKR #KorboLorboJeetbo #আমিKKR #IPL2021https://t.co/QadcUOC5ad — KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) October 13, 2021 × Morgan admitted that the win "should've been a lot easier" after the good start. "We are delighted to get over the line. We are in the entertainment business and needed to play some entertaining cricket. Six off two and you would say the odds are for the bowling side. But Tripathi has done it for us so many times." Morgan said. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals players dejected after losing to KKR, video of emotional Prithvi Shaw goes viral In the match, DC opener Shikhar Dhawan struggled his way to a 39-ball 36 but couldn't break the shackles. Prithvi Shaw (18) looked good in his brief stay, while comeback man Marcus Stoinis (18) got the start but couldn't capitalise on it. In the 18th over, Shimron Hetmyer (17) unleashed two sixes off Lockie Ferguson after getting a second lease of life, while Shreyas Iyer (30 not out) hit a four and a last-ball six in the 20th over to take DC to a competitive score.

IPL 2021: Kolkata Knight Riders players erupt in joy after a sensational win against Delhi Capitals - Watch

<p>From former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag to star spinner Kuldeep Yadav, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are on the receiving end of praises after their outstanding performance against Delhi Capitals (DC) on Wednesday (October 13) in the second Qualifier.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Venkatesh Iyer struck a fluent half-century as KKR overcame a late-over scare to reach the final of IPL 2021, where they will face MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the win, Sehwag took to Twitter and wrote, "That was the most incredible 4 over turnaround. Kolkata almost outdoing Punjab, but Tripathi saving it. Great game."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-kolkata-knight-riders-players-erupt-in-joy-after-a-sensational-win-against-delhi-capitals-watch-420554">IPL 2021: Kolkata Knight Riders players erupt in joy after a sensational win against Delhi Capitals - Watch</a></strong></p>

<p>Set 136 for victory, Kolkata looked to be easing towards victory thanks to fine knocks from openers V Iyer (55) and Shubman Gill (46) before five quick wickets forced a thrilling finish.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With seven needed off the last over, Ravichandran Ashwin removed Shakib Al Hasan and Sunil Narine off successive deliveries but Rahul Tripathi (12 not out) hit the off-spinner over his head for six to guide his side home with a ball to spare.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-delhi-capitals-players-dejected-after-losing-to-kkr-video-of-emotional-prithvi-shaw-goes-viral-420551">IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals players dejected after losing to KKR, video of emotional Prithvi Shaw goes viral</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">What a game of cricket. 😅 Unbelievable batting from <a href="https://twitter.com/ShubmanGill?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShubmanGill</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/venky?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@venky</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/tripathirahul52?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@tripathirahul52</a> at the end to get us through the line.<br />
Looking forward for the finals on Friday. 💜<br />
Let's go <a href="https://twitter.com/KKRiders?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kkriders</a> 💪 <a href="https://t.co/hPMPqT5xsE">pic.twitter.com/hPMPqT5xsE</a></p>
— Kuldeep yadav (@imkuldeep18) <a href="https://twitter.com/imkuldeep18/status/1448362155930112002?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">An exciting game of cricket. The nerves towards the end. Whoof! 🙌 Superb work boys. All the hard work paying off <a href="https://twitter.com/KKRiders?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KKRiders</a> 💜💜 <a href="https://t.co/e023wqIY8Q">pic.twitter.com/e023wqIY8Q</a></p>
— Kuldeep yadav (@imkuldeep18) <a href="https://twitter.com/imkuldeep18/status/1448349920960794625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">That was intense…brilliant win <a href="https://twitter.com/KKRiders?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KKRiders</a> 1 more to go!! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KorboLorboJeetbo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KorboLorboJeetbo</a></p>
— Pat Cummins (@patcummins30) <a href="https://twitter.com/patcummins30/status/1448345770680328198?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">That was the most incredible 4 over turnaround. Kolkata almost outdoing Punjab, but Tripathi saving it. Great game. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DCvsKKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DCvsKKR</a></p>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1448344851150372866?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Rohit Sharma, MS Dhoni, Gautam Gambhir, David Warner, now Eoin Morgan in the final ....Showing the great value of having a top leader. I will repeat, in franchise T20 cricket, a good captain is almost worth two players</p>
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) <a href="https://twitter.com/bhogleharsha/status/1448355746874228740?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Who would of thought?!! See you all Friday. <a href="https://twitter.com/KKRiders?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KKRiders</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IPL</a> <a href="https://t.co/h9txU3hrgU">pic.twitter.com/h9txU3hrgU</a></p>
— David Hussey (@DavidHussey29) <a href="https://twitter.com/DavidHussey29/status/1448367407114985481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This could be one of the best all-time comebacks for a team in <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IPL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/KKRiders?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KKRiders</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKRvDC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKRvDC</a></p>
— Isa Guha (@isaguha) <a href="https://twitter.com/isaguha/status/1448323886794280964?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Comeback of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKR</a> is unprecedented ! Gut feelings that they will win a cup now .. Korbo Lorbo Jeetbo re ...<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKRvDC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKRvDC</a></p>
— CineHub (@RahulVerma4860) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulVerma4860/status/1448352068247310345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>KKR skipper Eoin Morgan admitted that the win "should've been a lot easier" after the good start. "We are delighted to get over the line. We are in the entertainment business and needed to play some entertaining cricket. Six off two and you would say the odds are for the bowling side. But Tripathi has done it for us so many times." Morgan said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Finalssss babyyy💜💜💜 <a href="https://t.co/tHE3QGlAik">pic.twitter.com/tHE3QGlAik</a></p>
— Shubman Gill (@ShubmanGill) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShubmanGill/status/1448376668356169728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"𝘼𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙖𝙮, 𝘾𝙧𝙞𝙘𝙠𝙚𝙩 𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙡 𝙬𝙞𝙣𝙣𝙚𝙧!"<br />
<br />
Good game, <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DelhiCapitals</a> 💜💙<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKRvDC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKRvDC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AmiKKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AmiKKR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KorboLorboJeetbo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KorboLorboJeetbo</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E0%A6%86%E0%A6%AE%E0%A6%BFKKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#আমিKKR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://t.co/95nDm1O4Bp">pic.twitter.com/95nDm1O4Bp</a></p>
— KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) <a href="https://twitter.com/KKRiders/status/1448361573827760128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">UNBELIEVABLE SCENES! 💜💛<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKRvDC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKRvDC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AmiKKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AmiKKR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://t.co/63s82sU4R2">pic.twitter.com/63s82sU4R2</a></p>
— KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) <a href="https://twitter.com/KKRiders/status/1448351668785999874?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>During the match,&nbsp;DC opener Shikhar Dhawan struggled his way to a 39-ball 36 but couldn't break the shackles. Prithvi Shaw (18) looked good in his brief stay, while comeback man Marcus Stoinis (18) got the start but couldn't capitalise on it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the 18th over, Shimron Hetmyer (17) unleashed two sixes off Lockie Ferguson after getting a second lease of life, while Shreyas Iyer (30 not out) hit a four and a last-ball six in the 20th over to take DC to a competitive score.</p>


From former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag to star spinner Kuldeep Yadav, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are on the receiving end of praises after their outstanding performance against Delhi Capitals (DC) on Wednesday (October 13) in the second Qualifier.

From former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag to star spinner Kuldeep Yadav, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are on the receiving end of praises after their outstanding performance against Delhi Capitals (DC) on Wednesday (October 13) in the second Qualifier. Venkatesh Iyer struck a fluent half-century as KKR overcame a late-over scare to reach the final of IPL 2021, where they will face MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on Friday. After the win, Sehwag took to Twitter and wrote, "That was the most incredible 4 over turnaround. Kolkata almost outdoing Punjab, but Tripathi saving it. Great game." ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Kolkata Knight Riders players erupt in joy after a sensational win against Delhi Capitals - Watch Set 136 for victory, Kolkata looked to be easing towards victory thanks to fine knocks from openers V Iyer (55) and Shubman Gill (46) before five quick wickets forced a thrilling finish. With seven needed off the last over, Ravichandran Ashwin removed Shakib Al Hasan and Sunil Narine off successive deliveries but Rahul Tripathi (12 not out) hit the off-spinner over his head for six to guide his side home with a ball to spare. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals players dejected after losing to KKR, video of emotional Prithvi Shaw goes viral What a game of cricket. 😅 Unbelievable batting from @ShubmanGill @venky & @tripathirahul52 at the end to get us through the line. Looking forward for the finals on Friday. 💜 Let's go @kkriders 💪 pic.twitter.com/hPMPqT5xsE — Kuldeep yadav (@imkuldeep18) October 13, 2021 × An exciting game of cricket. The nerves towards the end. Whoof! 🙌 Superb work boys. All the hard work paying off @KKRiders 💜💜 pic.twitter.com/e023wqIY8Q — Kuldeep yadav (@imkuldeep18) October 13, 2021 × That was intense…brilliant win @KKRiders 1 more to go!! #KorboLorboJeetbo — Pat Cummins (@patcummins30) October 13, 2021 × That was the most incredible 4 over turnaround. Kolkata almost outdoing Punjab, but Tripathi saving it. Great game. #DCvsKKR — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) October 13, 2021 × Rohit Sharma, MS Dhoni, Gautam Gambhir, David Warner, now Eoin Morgan in the final ....Showing the great value of having a top leader. I will repeat, in franchise T20 cricket, a good captain is almost worth two players — Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) October 13, 2021 × Who would of thought?!! See you all Friday. @KKRiders @IPL pic.twitter.com/h9txU3hrgU — David Hussey (@DavidHussey29) October 13, 2021 × This could be one of the best all-time comebacks for a team in @IPL @KKRiders #KKRvDC — Isa Guha (@isaguha) October 13, 2021 × Comeback of #KKR is unprecedented ! Gut feelings that they will win a cup now .. Korbo Lorbo Jeetbo re ...#KKRvDC — CineHub (@RahulVerma4860) October 13, 2021 × KKR skipper Eoin Morgan admitted that the win "should've been a lot easier" after the good start. "We are delighted to get over the line. We are in the entertainment business and needed to play some entertaining cricket. Six off two and you would say the odds are for the bowling side. But Tripathi has done it for us so many times." Morgan said. Finalssss babyyy💜💜💜 pic.twitter.com/tHE3QGlAik — Shubman Gill (@ShubmanGill) October 13, 2021 × "𝘼𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙖𝙮, 𝘾𝙧𝙞𝙘𝙠𝙚𝙩 𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙡 𝙬𝙞𝙣𝙣𝙚𝙧!" Good game, @DelhiCapitals 💜💙#KKRvDC #KKR #AmiKKR #KorboLorboJeetbo #আমিKKR #IPL2021 pic.twitter.com/95nDm1O4Bp — KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) October 13, 2021 × UNBELIEVABLE SCENES! 💜💛#KKRvDC #KKR #AmiKKR #IPL2021 pic.twitter.com/63s82sU4R2 — KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) October 13, 2021 × During the match, DC opener Shikhar Dhawan struggled his way to a 39-ball 36 but couldn't break the shackles. Prithvi Shaw (18) looked good in his brief stay, while comeback man Marcus Stoinis (18) got the start but couldn't capitalise on it. In the 18th over, Shimron Hetmyer (17) unleashed two sixes off Lockie Ferguson after getting a second lease of life, while Shreyas Iyer (30 not out) hit a four and a last-ball six in the 20th over to take DC to a competitive score.

IPL 2021: Twitter hails Kolkata Knight Riders' stunning win over DC as 'one of the best comebacks'

<p>MS Dhoni has inspired generations with his playing style, captaincy, finishing skills. Over the years, he might not have been at his best with the willow, but he remains a potent threat as a keeper and captain. On Sunday evening (October 10), the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain came to his very best as a finisher in IPL 2021's Qualifier 1 versus the Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC); leading the Yellow Army to an emphatic 4-wicket win in the last over. With this, he took his side to their record 9th final in the IPL.</p>

<p>After asking DC to bat first, CSK had a stiff challenge to chase down 173 in 20 overs. DC rode on attacking knocks from Prithvi Shaw (60), Rishabh Pant (51*) and Shimron Hetmyer (37) to post 172-5. CSK lost Faf du Plessis soon but a century-stand from half-centurions Ruturaj Gaikwad (70) and Robin Uthappa (63) laid the platform for Chennai's&nbsp;win.</p>

<p>Nonetheless, Tom Curran brought DC back into the contest with regular strikes. In the end overs, CSK needed 19 off 9 balls when a woefully out-of-form Dhoni came out to bat, at No. 7, ahead of Ravindra Jadeja. Courtesy his 6-ball 18*, studded with one six and three back-to-back fours, CSK ended their winless streak vs DC this season to enter the summit clash.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As a result of the close contest, two young kids -- being ardent CSK supporters -- were left teary-eyed at the stands. Shouting and cheering relentlessly for the Yellow Army, the CSK skipper Dhoni tossed up an autographed ball to the kids -- particularly for the emotional young girl -- to win hearts off the field as well. <strong>Here's the video:</strong></p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csks-ms-dhoni-says-his-innings-was-crucial-praises-dcs-bowling-attack-after-reaching-final-of-ipl-2021-419755"><strong>CSK's MS Dhoni says his 'innings was crucial'; praises DC's bowling attack after reaching final of IPL 2021</strong></a></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Being a fan of MSD is an imotion! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dhoni</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> <a href="https://t.co/EZyYjLjRwS">pic.twitter.com/EZyYjLjRwS</a></p>
— A n j u (@Anjuvj3) <a href="https://twitter.com/Anjuvj3/status/1447270548367568897?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Dhoni's gift to his littles big hearted Fans <a href="https://t.co/zbxcPvb9aW">pic.twitter.com/zbxcPvb9aW</a></p>
— Ashok Rana (@AshokRa72671545) <a href="https://twitter.com/AshokRa72671545/status/1447265750335442947?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-reaction-is-epic-as-greatest-finisher-ms-dhonis-chennai-super-kings-enter-ipl-2021-final-419751"><strong>Virat Kohli's reaction is epic as 'greatest finisher' MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings enter IPL 2021 final</strong></a></p>

<p>After the match, Dhoni opined on his memorable finish and told at the post-match presentation, "Nothing special, just watch the ball and hit the ball. I haven't done a lot in the tournament. So you want to get that out of the system. If you are batting well in the nets, just look for the ball, what are the variations, where the bowler could bowl. Other than that there was nothing much in the mind. If there are too many things floating around, it becomes difficult to watch the ball."</p>

<p>CSK will now wait for their opposition in the final, with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) to play Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Eliminator whereas DC will play the winner of the KKR-RCB tie.</p>


MS Dhoni has inspired generations with his playing style, captaincy, finishing skills. Over the years, he might not have been at his best with the willow, but he remains a potent threat as a keeper and captain.

MS Dhoni has inspired generations with his playing style, captaincy, finishing skills. Over the years, he might not have been at his best with the willow, but he remains a potent threat as a keeper and captain. On Sunday evening (October 10), the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain came to his very best as a finisher in IPL 2021's Qualifier 1 versus the Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC); leading the Yellow Army to an emphatic 4-wicket win in the last over. With this, he took his side to their record 9th final in the IPL. After asking DC to bat first, CSK had a stiff challenge to chase down 173 in 20 overs. DC rode on attacking knocks from Prithvi Shaw (60), Rishabh Pant (51*) and Shimron Hetmyer (37) to post 172-5. CSK lost Faf du Plessis soon but a century-stand from half-centurions Ruturaj Gaikwad (70) and Robin Uthappa (63) laid the platform for Chennai's win. Nonetheless, Tom Curran brought DC back into the contest with regular strikes. In the end overs, CSK needed 19 off 9 balls when a woefully out-of-form Dhoni came out to bat, at No. 7, ahead of Ravindra Jadeja. Courtesy his 6-ball 18*, studded with one six and three back-to-back fours, CSK ended their winless streak vs DC this season to enter the summit clash. As a result of the close contest, two young kids -- being ardent CSK supporters -- were left teary-eyed at the stands. Shouting and cheering relentlessly for the Yellow Army, the CSK skipper Dhoni tossed up an autographed ball to the kids -- particularly for the emotional young girl -- to win hearts off the field as well. Here's the video: ALSO READ | CSK's MS Dhoni says his 'innings was crucial'; praises DC's bowling attack after reaching final of IPL 2021 Being a fan of MSD is an imotion! #Dhoni @msdhoni pic.twitter.com/EZyYjLjRwS — A n j u (@Anjuvj3) October 10, 2021 × Dhoni's gift to his littles big hearted Fans pic.twitter.com/zbxcPvb9aW — Ashok Rana (@AshokRa72671545) October 10, 2021 × ALSO READ | Virat Kohli's reaction is epic as 'greatest finisher' MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings enter IPL 2021 final After the match, Dhoni opined on his memorable finish and told at the post-match presentation, "Nothing special, just watch the ball and hit the ball. I haven't done a lot in the tournament. So you want to get that out of the system. If you are batting well in the nets, just look for the ball, what are the variations, where the bowler could bowl. Other than that there was nothing much in the mind. If there are too many things floating around, it becomes difficult to watch the ball." CSK will now wait for their opposition in the final, with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) to play Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Eliminator whereas DC will play the winner of the KKR-RCB tie.

IPL 2021: MS Dhoni gives autographed ball to a teary-eyed young girl after CSK's Qualifier 1 win vs DC - Watch

<p>Chennai Super Kings (CSK) superstar Suresh Raina was left in awe of MS Dhoni as the skipper fired the side into the final of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 with a thrilling finish in the Qualifier 1 against Delhi Capitals on Sunday. Dhoni slammed an unbeaten 18 off 6 balls as he rolled back the years to wrap up another tense chase for CSK with two balls to spare.</p>

<p>It was an amazing display from the CSK captain, who was struggling with his form throughout the tournament but stepped up and deliver when the team required. Chasing a target of 173 runs, CSK were well on course with the help of half-centuries from Ruturaj Gaikwad (70) and Robin Uthappa (63).</p>

<p>However, they lost the plot in the middle and were in trouble with 24&nbsp;runs to get off the final 11 deliveries. Dhoni decided to promote himself above an in-form Ravindra Jadeja at number 6 and finished off the run-chase with a 6-ball 18 laced with three fours and a six.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Raina, who was not part of the playing XI in the Qualifier due to an injury, took to Twitter to laud the CSK skipper for his batting heroics at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai. "What a finish it was!&nbsp;@msdhoni&nbsp;Bhai, my&nbsp;and belief on you just grows multifold with time! This moment of you taking the team into the finals will be cherished forever," Raina wrote on Twitter with a picture of Dhoni.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-ms-dhoni-retires-he-will-be-remembered-as-one-of-the-greatest-finishers-ever-ricky-ponting-419942">When MS Dhoni retires, he will be remembered as one of the greatest finishers ever: Ricky Ponting</a></p>

<p>Not many had expected Dhoni to come out in the pressure situation with CSK needing 24 off just 11 balls as he had scored only 96 runs in 14 matches with just two sixes under this belt. However, the CSK skipper turned back the clock with a vintage knock to take CSK home and power them into their ninth IPL final.</p>

<p>CSK will face the winner of the second Qualifier between Delhi Capitals and the winner of Monday's Eliminator between Royal Challengers Bangalore and Kolkata Knight Riders in the final of IPL 2021 on October 15.</p>


Chennai Super Kings (CSK) superstar Suresh Raina was left in awe of MS Dhoni as the skipper fired the side into the final of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 with a thrilling finish in the Qualifier 1 against Delhi Capitals on Sunday.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) superstar Suresh Raina was left in awe of MS Dhoni as the skipper fired the side into the final of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 with a thrilling finish in the Qualifier 1 against Delhi Capitals on Sunday. Dhoni slammed an unbeaten 18 off 6 balls as he rolled back the years to wrap up another tense chase for CSK with two balls to spare. It was an amazing display from the CSK captain, who was struggling with his form throughout the tournament but stepped up and deliver when the team required. Chasing a target of 173 runs, CSK were well on course with the help of half-centuries from Ruturaj Gaikwad (70) and Robin Uthappa (63). However, they lost the plot in the middle and were in trouble with 24 runs to get off the final 11 deliveries. Dhoni decided to promote himself above an in-form Ravindra Jadeja at number 6 and finished off the run-chase with a 6-ball 18 laced with three fours and a six. Raina, who was not part of the playing XI in the Qualifier due to an injury, took to Twitter to laud the CSK skipper for his batting heroics at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai. "What a finish it was! @msdhoni Bhai, my and belief on you just grows multifold with time! This moment of you taking the team into the finals will be cherished forever," Raina wrote on Twitter with a picture of Dhoni. Also Read: When MS Dhoni retires, he will be remembered as one of the greatest finishers ever: Ricky Ponting Not many had expected Dhoni to come out in the pressure situation with CSK needing 24 off just 11 balls as he had scored only 96 runs in 14 matches with just two sixes under this belt. However, the CSK skipper turned back the clock with a vintage knock to take CSK home and power them into their ninth IPL final. CSK will face the winner of the second Qualifier between Delhi Capitals and the winner of Monday's Eliminator between Royal Challengers Bangalore and Kolkata Knight Riders in the final of IPL 2021 on October 15.

'My belief in you grows multifold with time': Suresh Raina lauds MS Dhoni after CSK reach IPL 2021 final

<p>Delhi Capitals (DC) head coach Ricky Ponting hailed Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni after he rolled back the years to once again prove why he is regarded as one of the best finishers ever in white-ball cricket. Dhoni played a crucial cameo towards the end of CSK's run-chase against DC in Qualifier 1 of IPL 2021 to take the team over the line and help them secure a spot in the final of the tournament.</p>

<p>Asked to chase down a challenging target of 173 runs in Qualifier 1, Ruturaj Gaikwad (70) and Robin Uthappa (63) set the stage for CSK with half-centuries apiece. However, DC bowlers made a comeback towards the end of the game with quick wickets as CSK were left requiring 24 runs off 11 balls after Gaikwad's dismissal in the 19th over.</p>

<p>Instead of sending Ravindra Jadeja out, Dhoni promoted himself above the in-form left-hander and scored quickfire 18 runs off 6 balls to wrap up the run-chase with two balls to spare. Dhoni, who has been woefully&nbsp;out of form this season, displayed his class once again under pressure and took his side home.</p>

<p>Ponting insisted he was expecting Dhoni to walk out when CSK were in a tricky position in the penultimate over. The former Australia captain hailed him as one of the greats of the game and said he will be remembered as one of the greatest finishers of all time when he retires.</p>

<p>"He has been one of the greats, don't think there is any doubt there," Ponting said lauding Dhoni during the post-match presser.</p>

<p>"We were sitting in the dugout thinking if it will be (Ravindra) Jadeja or Dhoni coming next, I put my hand up straightaway and said I am pretty sure Dhoni will come out now and try and ice the game.</p>

<p>"We probably didn't execute as well as we needed to him, and you know that if you miss, he is going to make you pay. He has done it for a long time now and I think our bowlers just missed their areas a little bit. I think when he is retired he will be remembered as one of the greatest finishers the game has ever seen," added the former Aussie skipper.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-aint-holding-him-back-stephen-fleming-reveals-why-ms-dhoni-batted-ahead-of-ravindra-jadeja-against-dc-419876">'I ain’t holding him back': Stephen Fleming reveals why MS Dhoni batted ahead of Ravindra Jadeja against DC</a></p>

<p>Dhoni had managed only 96 runs in 14 matches before coming out to bat at no.6 in a crunch situation against Delhi Capitals on Sunday. However, the CSK captain pulled off what he is best known for and finished yet another run chase in style to help his side enter their ninth final in IPL history.</p>


Delhi Capitals (DC) head coach Ricky Ponting hailed Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni after he rolled back the years to once again prove why he is regarded as one of the best finishers ever in white-ball cricket.

Delhi Capitals (DC) head coach Ricky Ponting hailed Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni after he rolled back the years to once again prove why he is regarded as one of the best finishers ever in white-ball cricket. Dhoni played a crucial cameo towards the end of CSK's run-chase against DC in Qualifier 1 of IPL 2021 to take the team over the line and help them secure a spot in the final of the tournament. Asked to chase down a challenging target of 173 runs in Qualifier 1, Ruturaj Gaikwad (70) and Robin Uthappa (63) set the stage for CSK with half-centuries apiece. However, DC bowlers made a comeback towards the end of the game with quick wickets as CSK were left requiring 24 runs off 11 balls after Gaikwad's dismissal in the 19th over. Instead of sending Ravindra Jadeja out, Dhoni promoted himself above the in-form left-hander and scored quickfire 18 runs off 6 balls to wrap up the run-chase with two balls to spare. Dhoni, who has been woefully out of form this season, displayed his class once again under pressure and took his side home. Ponting insisted he was expecting Dhoni to walk out when CSK were in a tricky position in the penultimate over. The former Australia captain hailed him as one of the greats of the game and said he will be remembered as one of the greatest finishers of all time when he retires. "He has been one of the greats, don't think there is any doubt there," Ponting said lauding Dhoni during the post-match presser. "We were sitting in the dugout thinking if it will be (Ravindra) Jadeja or Dhoni coming next, I put my hand up straightaway and said I am pretty sure Dhoni will come out now and try and ice the game. "We probably didn't execute as well as we needed to him, and you know that if you miss, he is going to make you pay. He has done it for a long time now and I think our bowlers just missed their areas a little bit. I think when he is retired he will be remembered as one of the greatest finishers the game has ever seen," added the former Aussie skipper. Also Read: 'I ain’t holding him back': Stephen Fleming reveals why MS Dhoni batted ahead of Ravindra Jadeja against DC Dhoni had managed only 96 runs in 14 matches before coming out to bat at no.6 in a crunch situation against Delhi Capitals on Sunday. However, the CSK captain pulled off what he is best known for and finished yet another run chase in style to help his side enter their ninth final in IPL history.

When MS Dhoni retires, he will be remembered as one of the greatest finishers ever: Ricky Ponting

<p>Vintage MS Dhoni produced a thrilling finish as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) defeated Delhi Capitals (DC) by four wickets in the first Qualifier of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 on Sunday (October 10) to become the first team to seal a spot in the final of the tournament. Dhoni played a quickfire cameo of 6-ball 18 to help CSK chase down the target of 173 runs with two balls to spare and take his team into the final.</p>

<p>Dhoni rolled back the clock with his heroics as he once again soaked up the pressure in a tense situation and took CSK over the line in what was an epic run-chase. The CSK skipper was out of form throughout the season and many didn't expect him to come above Ravindra Jadeja in the 173-run chase with the Men in Yellow needing 24 runs to win from eleven balls.</p>

<p>However, the CSK skipper promoted himself above Jadeja and finished the game by scoring 18 runs off just six deliveries with the help of three fours and a six. CSK head coach Stephen Fleming revealed he had a long chat with Dhoni during the run-chase and the look in the CSK skipper's eye stopped Fleming from questioning him when he decided to walk in to bat and take it upon himself to finish the game for his side.</p>

<p>Providing insights of what unfolded in the CSK dressing room before Dhoni walked out to bat, Fleming said it was the longest he had spoken to Dhoni during the run-chase than he has in a long time.</p>

<p>“There was a lot of chat. We spoke more in those 20 overs than we have for a long time. There was a lot of technical discussion and maneuvering to try and work out how this was going to unfold. When the captain got looked in his eyes, he said 'I’ll go'; it’s been well-documented the times that he has done that. Today was one of those. I ain’t holding him back, and we saw the result of that,” Fleming said in the post-match presser.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-sakshi-gets-emotional-as-ms-dhoni-finishes-off-in-style-to-take-csk-to-ipl-2021-final-with-dc-win-419836">WATCH - Sakshi gets emotional as MS Dhoni finishes off in style to take CSK to IPL 2021 final with DC win</a></p>

<p>Dhoni missed the first ball he faced against DC pacer Avesh Khan before slamming a six on the next ball. He then smashed three fours against Tom Curran in the final over to take CSK over the line and confirm their spot in the final. Fleming said it was emotionally great to see Dhoni finish another game for CSK despite being out of form and age not being on his side anymore.</p>

<p>“It was emotionally great for us. We wish him every time he goes out. We know the pressure he has and the expectation there is on him. Again, he came up trumps for us. It was emotional in many ways, and was very important. And the captain had the opportunity to do that for us,” said the CSK head coach.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Vintage MS Dhoni produced a thrilling finish as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) defeated Delhi Capitals (DC) by four wickets in the first Qualifier of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 on Sunday (October 10) to become the first team to seal a spot in the final of the tournament.

Vintage MS Dhoni produced a thrilling finish as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) defeated Delhi Capitals (DC) by four wickets in the first Qualifier of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 on Sunday (October 10) to become the first team to seal a spot in the final of the tournament. Dhoni played a quickfire cameo of 6-ball 18 to help CSK chase down the target of 173 runs with two balls to spare and take his team into the final. Dhoni rolled back the clock with his heroics as he once again soaked up the pressure in a tense situation and took CSK over the line in what was an epic run-chase. The CSK skipper was out of form throughout the season and many didn't expect him to come above Ravindra Jadeja in the 173-run chase with the Men in Yellow needing 24 runs to win from eleven balls. However, the CSK skipper promoted himself above Jadeja and finished the game by scoring 18 runs off just six deliveries with the help of three fours and a six. CSK head coach Stephen Fleming revealed he had a long chat with Dhoni during the run-chase and the look in the CSK skipper's eye stopped Fleming from questioning him when he decided to walk in to bat and take it upon himself to finish the game for his side. Providing insights of what unfolded in the CSK dressing room before Dhoni walked out to bat, Fleming said it was the longest he had spoken to Dhoni during the run-chase than he has in a long time. “There was a lot of chat. We spoke more in those 20 overs than we have for a long time. There was a lot of technical discussion and maneuvering to try and work out how this was going to unfold. When the captain got looked in his eyes, he said 'I’ll go'; it’s been well-documented the times that he has done that. Today was one of those. I ain’t holding him back, and we saw the result of that,” Fleming said in the post-match presser. Also Read: WATCH - Sakshi gets emotional as MS Dhoni finishes off in style to take CSK to IPL 2021 final with DC win Dhoni missed the first ball he faced against DC pacer Avesh Khan before slamming a six on the next ball. He then smashed three fours against Tom Curran in the final over to take CSK over the line and confirm their spot in the final. Fleming said it was emotionally great to see Dhoni finish another game for CSK despite being out of form and age not being on his side anymore. “It was emotionally great for us. We wish him every time he goes out. We know the pressure he has and the expectation there is on him. Again, he came up trumps for us. It was emotional in many ways, and was very important. And the captain had the opportunity to do that for us,” said the CSK head coach.

'I ain’t holding him back': Stephen Fleming reveals why MS Dhoni batted ahead of Ravindra Jadeja against DC

<p>MS Dhoni took the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to their ninth IPL final with a win in Qualifier 1, of IPL 2021, versus the Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Sunday evening (October 10).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chasing DC's competitive 172-5, courtesy Prithvi Shaw's 60 and Rishabh Pant's 51 not out, the Yellow Army were oncourse for a win thanks to a century-stand between half-centurions Ruturaj Gaikwad (70) and Robin Uthappa (42-ball 63) before they were reduced to 119-4 after being well-placed on 113-1. With 19 required off 9 balls, an out-of-form Dhoni walked out ahead of in-form Ravindra Jadeja at No. 7.</p>

<p>After being beaten on the first delivery, it seemed like CSK would fall behind, however, the experienced 40-year-old Dhoni struck big on his second delivery, off Avesh Khan, and countered Tom Curran's threat on the last over with ease as his three successive boundaries took Chennai home by four wickets in a thrilling Qualifier 1 encounter, at Dubai.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-aint-holding-him-back-stepehen-fleming-reveals-why-ms-dhoni-batted-ahead-of-ravindra-jadeja-against-dc-419876">'I ain’t holding him back': Stepehen Fleming reveals why MS Dhoni batted ahead of Ravindra Jadeja against DC</a></strong></p>

<p>After his 6-ball 18 not out, studded with one six and three fours, Dhoni equalled Jadeja in an elite list for finishers.</p>

<p><strong>Most time unbeaten in successful run chases in IPL<br />
25 </strong>MS Dhoni<br />
<strong>25 </strong>Ravindra Jadeja<br />
<strong>22 </strong>Yusuf Pathan</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-sakshi-gets-emotional-as-ms-dhoni-finishes-off-in-style-to-take-csk-to-ipl-2021-final-with-dc-win-419836">WATCH: Sakshi gets emotional as MS Dhoni finishes off in style to take CSK to IPL 2021 final with DC win</a></strong></p>

<p>After the match and his brilliant performance, Dhoni told at the post-match presentation, "Nothing special, just watch the ball and hit the ball. I haven't done a lot in the tournament. So you want to get that out of the system. If you are batting well in the nets, just look for the ball, what are the variations, where the bowler could bowl. Other than that there was nothing much in the mind. If there are too many things floating around, it becomes difficult to watch the ball."</p>


MS Dhoni took the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to their ninth IPL final with a win in Qualifier 1, of IPL 2021, versus the Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Sunday evening (October 10).

MS Dhoni took the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to their ninth IPL final with a win in Qualifier 1, of IPL 2021, versus the Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Sunday evening (October 10). Chasing DC's competitive 172-5, courtesy Prithvi Shaw's 60 and Rishabh Pant's 51 not out, the Yellow Army were oncourse for a win thanks to a century-stand between half-centurions Ruturaj Gaikwad (70) and Robin Uthappa (42-ball 63) before they were reduced to 119-4 after being well-placed on 113-1. With 19 required off 9 balls, an out-of-form Dhoni walked out ahead of in-form Ravindra Jadeja at No. 7. After being beaten on the first delivery, it seemed like CSK would fall behind, however, the experienced 40-year-old Dhoni struck big on his second delivery, off Avesh Khan, and countered Tom Curran's threat on the last over with ease as his three successive boundaries took Chennai home by four wickets in a thrilling Qualifier 1 encounter, at Dubai. ALSO READ | 'I ain’t holding him back': Stepehen Fleming reveals why MS Dhoni batted ahead of Ravindra Jadeja against DC After his 6-ball 18 not out, studded with one six and three fours, Dhoni equalled Jadeja in an elite list for finishers. Most time unbeaten in successful run chases in IPL 25 MS Dhoni 25 Ravindra Jadeja 22 Yusuf Pathan ALSO READ | WATCH: Sakshi gets emotional as MS Dhoni finishes off in style to take CSK to IPL 2021 final with DC win After the match and his brilliant performance, Dhoni told at the post-match presentation, "Nothing special, just watch the ball and hit the ball. I haven't done a lot in the tournament. So you want to get that out of the system. If you are batting well in the nets, just look for the ball, what are the variations, where the bowler could bowl. Other than that there was nothing much in the mind. If there are too many things floating around, it becomes difficult to watch the ball."

IPL 2021: CSK captain MS Dhoni equals Ravindra Jadeja in elite list after Qualifier 1 blitz vs DC

<p>After MS Dhoni-led <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-led-chennai-super-kings-beat-delhi-capitals-by-4-wickets-to-enter-ipl-2021-final-419744">Chennai Super Kings (CSK)</a> entered the Indian Premier League 2021 final after beating Delhi Capitals, Virat Kohli hailed the former Team India captain Dhoni for another outstanding finish.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the first Qualifier on Sunday (October 10), CSK registered a stunning victory after defeating DC by four wickets in a last-over thriller. Ruturaj Gaikwad's 70 and an unbeaten cameo from skipper Dhoni helped CSK reach the final. Chasing 173 for victory, Chennai rode on a 110-run second-wicket partnership between Gaikwad and Robin Uthappa (63) but were in trouble after the two departed.</p>

<p>Delhi pace bowler Tom Curran needed to defend 13 off the final over and got Moeen Ali out for 16 on the first ball. But Dhoni (18) kept his calm to smash three boundaries and take the team home with two balls to spare.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Soon after the match ended, Kohli took to his Twitter handle to praise Dhoni, he write, "Anddddd the king is back the greatest finisher in the game. Made me jump Outta my seat once again tonight."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/got-messages-saying-you-should-have-been-dead-varun-chakravarthy-on-contracting-covid-19-during-ipls-1st-leg-419701">Got messages saying you should have been dead: Varun Chakravarthy on contracting COVID-19 during IPL's 1st leg</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Anddddd the king is back ❤️the greatest finisher ever in the game. Made me jump Outta my seat once again tonight.<a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a></p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Captain Cool 😎<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> <a href="https://t.co/QSEHi4TFCA">pic.twitter.com/QSEHi4TFCA</a></p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">What a game of cricket that was! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSK</a>, they are now in Friday's Final of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> <a href="https://t.co/eiDV9Bwjm8">pic.twitter.com/eiDV9Bwjm8</a></p>
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After MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) entered the Indian Premier League 2021 final after beating Delhi Capitals, Virat Kohli hailed the former Team India captain Dhoni for another outstanding finish.

After MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) entered the Indian Premier League 2021 final after beating Delhi Capitals, Virat Kohli hailed the former Team India captain Dhoni for another outstanding finish. In the first Qualifier on Sunday (October 10), CSK registered a stunning victory after defeating DC by four wickets in a last-over thriller. Ruturaj Gaikwad's 70 and an unbeaten cameo from skipper Dhoni helped CSK reach the final. Chasing 173 for victory, Chennai rode on a 110-run second-wicket partnership between Gaikwad and Robin Uthappa (63) but were in trouble after the two departed. Delhi pace bowler Tom Curran needed to defend 13 off the final over and got Moeen Ali out for 16 on the first ball. But Dhoni (18) kept his calm to smash three boundaries and take the team home with two balls to spare. Soon after the match ended, Kohli took to his Twitter handle to praise Dhoni, he write, "Anddddd the king is back the greatest finisher in the game. Made me jump Outta my seat once again tonight." ALSO READ | Got messages saying you should have been dead: Varun Chakravarthy on contracting COVID-19 during IPL's 1st leg Anddddd the king is back ❤️the greatest finisher ever in the game. Made me jump Outta my seat once again tonight.@msdhoni — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) October 10, 2021 × Captain Cool 😎#VIVOIPL pic.twitter.com/QSEHi4TFCA — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) October 10, 2021 × What a game of cricket that was! #CSK, they are now in Friday's Final of #VIVOIPL pic.twitter.com/eiDV9Bwjm8 — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) October 10, 2021 ×

Virat Kohli's reaction is epic as 'greatest finisher' MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings enter IPL 2021 final

<p>Delhi Capitals (DC) skipper Rishabh Pant is "disappointed" after losing to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-ms-dhonis-finishing-touch-ruturaj-gaikwads-70-take-csk-to-9th-final-dc-to-play-qualifier-2-419744">Chennai Super Kings (CSK)</a> in a very close&nbsp;Qualifier 1 clash, missing the first chance to reach the finals of the Indian Premier League 2021. Although, DC will try their luck again, when they will play the winner of the eliminator in the third playoff.&nbsp;</p>

<p>CSK's Ruturaj Gaikwad's 70 and an unbeaten cameo from skipper MS Dhoni helped CSK reach the final of the 14th edition of the IPL with a four-wicket win over DC on Sunday (October 10) at Dubai International Cricket Stadium.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the post-match presentation, Pant said, "Obviously it's very disappointing, don't have enough words to describe how we are feeling right now. The only thing we can do is rectify our mistakes and move on to the next one."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-reaction-is-epic-as-greatest-finisher-ms-dhonis-chennai-super-kings-enter-ipl-2021-final-419751">Virat Kohli's reaction is epic as 'greatest finisher' MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings enter IPL 2021 final</a></strong></p>

<p>"I thought that Tom bowled beautifully throughout the match, last over unfortunately went for runs. I thought the bowler who is having a great day, it's better to use him for the last over. I thought the score was decent but they got off to a flier in the powerplay and we didn't get enough wickets and that was the main difference," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 24-year-old further said, "As a cricketer, we are going to rectify our mistakes, gonna learn from it and move on to the next one. Hopefully we can win and play the final."</p>

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<p>During the match, chasing 173 for victory, For Chennai Gaikwad and Robin Uthappa (63) contributed with a crucial 110-run second-wicket partnership but were in trouble after the two departed.</p>

<p>Delhi pace bowler Tom Curran needed to defend 13 off the final over and got Moeen Ali out for 16 on the first ball.&nbsp;But Dhoni (18) kept his calm to smash three boundaries and take the team home with two balls to spare.</p>

<p><strong>Brief Scores:</strong></p>

<p><strong>Delhi Capitals:</strong>&nbsp;172 for 5 in 20 overs (Prithvi Shaw 60, Rishabh Pant 51 not out; Josh Hazlewood 2/29).<br />
<strong>Chennai Super Kings:</strong>&nbsp;173 for 6 in 19.4 overs (Ruturaj Gaikwad 70, Robin Uthappa 63; Tom Curran 3/29).</p>


Delhi Capitals (DC) skipper Rishabh Pant is "disappointed" after losing to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in a very close Qualifier 1 clash, missing the first chance to reach the finals of the Indian Premier League 2021.

Delhi Capitals (DC) skipper Rishabh Pant is "disappointed" after losing to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in a very close Qualifier 1 clash, missing the first chance to reach the finals of the Indian Premier League 2021. Although, DC will try their luck again, when they will play the winner of the eliminator in the third playoff. CSK's Ruturaj Gaikwad's 70 and an unbeaten cameo from skipper MS Dhoni helped CSK reach the final of the 14th edition of the IPL with a four-wicket win over DC on Sunday (October 10) at Dubai International Cricket Stadium. During the post-match presentation, Pant said, "Obviously it's very disappointing, don't have enough words to describe how we are feeling right now. The only thing we can do is rectify our mistakes and move on to the next one." ALSO READ | Virat Kohli's reaction is epic as 'greatest finisher' MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings enter IPL 2021 final "I thought that Tom bowled beautifully throughout the match, last over unfortunately went for runs. I thought the bowler who is having a great day, it's better to use him for the last over. I thought the score was decent but they got off to a flier in the powerplay and we didn't get enough wickets and that was the main difference," he added. The 24-year-old further said, "As a cricketer, we are going to rectify our mistakes, gonna learn from it and move on to the next one. Hopefully we can win and play the final." What a game of cricket that was! #CSK, they are now in Friday's Final of #VIVOIPL pic.twitter.com/eiDV9Bwjm8 — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) October 10, 2021 × Sometimes, we run out of captions too... 💙💛#YehHaiNayiDilli #IPL2021 #DCvCSK pic.twitter.com/P5TybZwyMW — Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) October 10, 2021 × During the match, chasing 173 for victory, For Chennai Gaikwad and Robin Uthappa (63) contributed with a crucial 110-run second-wicket partnership but were in trouble after the two departed. Delhi pace bowler Tom Curran needed to defend 13 off the final over and got Moeen Ali out for 16 on the first ball. But Dhoni (18) kept his calm to smash three boundaries and take the team home with two balls to spare. Brief Scores: Delhi Capitals: 172 for 5 in 20 overs (Prithvi Shaw 60, Rishabh Pant 51 not out; Josh Hazlewood 2/29). Chennai Super Kings: 173 for 6 in 19.4 overs (Ruturaj Gaikwad 70, Robin Uthappa 63; Tom Curran 3/29).

IPL 2021: DC skipper Rishabh Pant 'disappointed' after losing to CSK in Qualifier 1

<p>Mahendra Singh Dhoni said that his "innings was crucial" after he finished in style with a classy boundary to take <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-ms-dhonis-finishing-touch-ruturaj-gaikwads-70-take-csk-to-9th-final-dc-to-play-qualifier-2-419744">Chennai Super Kings</a> (CSK) into the final of Indian Premier League 2021 after defeating Delhi Capitals (DC) in Qualifier 1 on Sunday (October 10).&nbsp;</p>

<p>This will be CSK's record ninth final appearance in IPL, thanks to the all-around performance by the Chennai team that proved its mettle while chasing 173 to win. The three-time champions needed 13 off the last over from Tom Curran and Dhoni smacked three boundaries to seal the win with two balls to spare.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-reaction-is-epic-as-greatest-finisher-ms-dhonis-chennai-super-kings-enter-ipl-2021-final-419751">Virat Kohli's reaction is epic as 'greatest finisher' MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings enter IPL 2021 final</a></strong></p>

<p>During the post-match presentation, Dhoni said, "I've not done a lot in the tournament, so wanted to look for the ball and see what the bowler can do. I was batting well in the nets. But wasn't thinking too much, if you think too much while batting then you mess your plans up," Dhoni said at the end of the match."</p>

<p>"My innings was a crucial one. Delhi has a very good bowling attack. They exploited the conditions well, so we knew it would be tough. My plan was simple, see the ball, hit the ball," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-dc-skipper-rishabh-pant-disappointed-after-losing-to-csk-in-qualifier-1-419753">IPL 2021: DC skipper Rishabh Pant 'disappointed' after losing to CSK in Qualifier 1</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChennaiSuperKings?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChennaiSuperKings</a> march on into the Finals of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> 2021. <a href="https://t.co/fvlCQaKqLc">pic.twitter.com/fvlCQaKqLc</a></p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">What a game of cricket that was! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSK</a>, they are now in Friday's Final of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> <a href="https://t.co/eiDV9Bwjm8">pic.twitter.com/eiDV9Bwjm8</a></p>
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<p>Dhoni said that he keeps his chats with the team's premier batter Ruturaj Gaikwad simple. "Whenever Ruturaj and I have a chat, it's a simple chat. Want to know what he was thinking. It's good to see how well he has improved. He is someone willing to bat 20 overs," he said.</p>

<p>On promoting Shardul Thakur to No 4, Dhoni said that he wanted to check out if he can get a couple of boundaries that can make a difference when the gap between runs required and balls left is 15 to 20.</p>

<p>"Shardul has done decent batting, as has Deepak. He/they are allowed to go for the shots from first ball unlike other top-order batters," said Dhoni.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was the situation that prompted him to send Robin Uthappa at No. 3 instead of Moeen Ali. "Robin enjoys batting at the top but Moeen has been excellent at No. 3. But we have created a situation where either of them could bat at No. 3 depending on the situation and the opposition."</p>

<p>Dhoni feels the kind of practice they got the last season after being knocked out of play-offs helped this season as it was evident with Ruturaj scoring 600-plus runs with one more match to go.</p>

<p>"Last season was the first time we didn't qualify into play-offs. But we wanted to just make use of the 3-4 games left last season and a lot of our batters made use of that. That is the reason why we have come back strongly this season."</p>


Mahendra Singh Dhoni said that his "innings was crucial" after he finished in style with a classy boundary to take Chennai Super Kings (CSK) into the final of Indian Premier League 2021 after defeating Delhi Capitals (DC) in Qualifier 1 on Sunday (October 10).

Mahendra Singh Dhoni said that his "innings was crucial" after he finished in style with a classy boundary to take Chennai Super Kings (CSK) into the final of Indian Premier League 2021 after defeating Delhi Capitals (DC) in Qualifier 1 on Sunday (October 10). This will be CSK's record ninth final appearance in IPL, thanks to the all-around performance by the Chennai team that proved its mettle while chasing 173 to win. The three-time champions needed 13 off the last over from Tom Curran and Dhoni smacked three boundaries to seal the win with two balls to spare. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli's reaction is epic as 'greatest finisher' MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings enter IPL 2021 final During the post-match presentation, Dhoni said, "I've not done a lot in the tournament, so wanted to look for the ball and see what the bowler can do. I was batting well in the nets. But wasn't thinking too much, if you think too much while batting then you mess your plans up," Dhoni said at the end of the match." "My innings was a crucial one. Delhi has a very good bowling attack. They exploited the conditions well, so we knew it would be tough. My plan was simple, see the ball, hit the ball," he added. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: DC skipper Rishabh Pant 'disappointed' after losing to CSK in Qualifier 1 #ChennaiSuperKings march on into the Finals of #VIVOIPL 2021. pic.twitter.com/fvlCQaKqLc — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) October 10, 2021 × What a game of cricket that was! #CSK, they are now in Friday's Final of #VIVOIPL pic.twitter.com/eiDV9Bwjm8 — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) October 10, 2021 × Dhoni said that he keeps his chats with the team's premier batter Ruturaj Gaikwad simple. "Whenever Ruturaj and I have a chat, it's a simple chat. Want to know what he was thinking. It's good to see how well he has improved. He is someone willing to bat 20 overs," he said. On promoting Shardul Thakur to No 4, Dhoni said that he wanted to check out if he can get a couple of boundaries that can make a difference when the gap between runs required and balls left is 15 to 20. "Shardul has done decent batting, as has Deepak. He/they are allowed to go for the shots from first ball unlike other top-order batters," said Dhoni. It was the situation that prompted him to send Robin Uthappa at No. 3 instead of Moeen Ali. "Robin enjoys batting at the top but Moeen has been excellent at No. 3. But we have created a situation where either of them could bat at No. 3 depending on the situation and the opposition." Dhoni feels the kind of practice they got the last season after being knocked out of play-offs helped this season as it was evident with Ruturaj scoring 600-plus runs with one more match to go. "Last season was the first time we didn't qualify into play-offs. But we wanted to just make use of the 3-4 games left last season and a lot of our batters made use of that. That is the reason why we have come back strongly this season."

CSK's MS Dhoni says his 'innings was crucial'; praises DC's bowling attack after reaching final of IPL 2021

<p>MS Dhoni finally did it for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) with the bat on Sunday evening (October 10) as the three-time champions beat Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) by 4 wickets in a thrilling Qualifier 1 encounter in IPL 2021, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.</p>

<p>After opting to bowl first, CSK restricted DC to a competitive 172-5 as the last year's runners-up rode on half-centuries from Prithvi Shaw (60), Rishabh Pant's 51* and Shimron Hetmyer's 37. In reply, CSK were in the hunt courtesy fifties from Robin Uthappa (42-ball 63) and in-form Ruturaj Gaikwad's 70. However, they were reduced to 119-4, from 113-1, as the match got very close and intense in the end overs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An out-of-form Dhoni walked out to bat at No. 7, ahead of finisher Ravindra Jadeja, and rolled back the clock with his power-hitting to take CSK to their ninth final courtesy his 6-ball 18*. As soon as Dhoni hit the winning runs in the final over, off Tom Curran, the crowd went berserk seeing MSD return back to form. On the other hand, Dhoni's wife Sakshi was emotional and hugged her daughter Ziva, although&nbsp;not visible in the video, seeing her husband's memorable finish.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Here's the video:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="und"><a href="https://t.co/59dhDykYOa">pic.twitter.com/59dhDykYOa</a></p>
— pant shirt fc (@pant_fc) <a href="https://twitter.com/pant_fc/status/1447267890931982338?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-ms-dhoni-gives-autographed-ball-to-a-teary-eyed-young-girl-after-csks-qualifier-1-win-vs-dc-watch-419817"><strong>IPL 2021: MS Dhoni gives autographed ball to a teary-eyed young girl after CSK's Qualifier 1 win vs DC - Watch</strong></a></p>

<p>After the match and his brilliant performance, Dhoni told at the post-match presentation, "Nothing special, just watch the ball and hit the ball. I haven't done a lot in the tournament. So you want to get that out of the system. If you are batting well in the nets, just look for the ball, what are the variations, where the bowler could bowl. Other than that there was nothing much in the mind. If there are too many things floating around, it becomes difficult to watch the ball."</p>

<p>CSK will now gear up for the IPL 2021 final on Friday (October 15) at the same venue.</p>


MS Dhoni finally did it for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) with the bat on Sunday evening (October 10) as the three-time champions beat Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) by 4 wickets in a thrilling Qualifier 1 encounter in IPL 2021, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

MS Dhoni finally did it for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) with the bat on Sunday evening (October 10) as the three-time champions beat Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) by 4 wickets in a thrilling Qualifier 1 encounter in IPL 2021, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. After opting to bowl first, CSK restricted DC to a competitive 172-5 as the last year's runners-up rode on half-centuries from Prithvi Shaw (60), Rishabh Pant's 51* and Shimron Hetmyer's 37. In reply, CSK were in the hunt courtesy fifties from Robin Uthappa (42-ball 63) and in-form Ruturaj Gaikwad's 70. However, they were reduced to 119-4, from 113-1, as the match got very close and intense in the end overs. An out-of-form Dhoni walked out to bat at No. 7, ahead of finisher Ravindra Jadeja, and rolled back the clock with his power-hitting to take CSK to their ninth final courtesy his 6-ball 18*. As soon as Dhoni hit the winning runs in the final over, off Tom Curran, the crowd went berserk seeing MSD return back to form. On the other hand, Dhoni's wife Sakshi was emotional and hugged her daughter Ziva, although not visible in the video, seeing her husband's memorable finish. Here's the video: pic.twitter.com/59dhDykYOa — pant shirt fc (@pant_fc) October 10, 2021 × ALSO READ | IPL 2021: MS Dhoni gives autographed ball to a teary-eyed young girl after CSK's Qualifier 1 win vs DC - Watch After the match and his brilliant performance, Dhoni told at the post-match presentation, "Nothing special, just watch the ball and hit the ball. I haven't done a lot in the tournament. So you want to get that out of the system. If you are batting well in the nets, just look for the ball, what are the variations, where the bowler could bowl. Other than that there was nothing much in the mind. If there are too many things floating around, it becomes difficult to watch the ball." CSK will now gear up for the IPL 2021 final on Friday (October 15) at the same venue.

WATCH: Sakshi gets emotional as MS Dhoni finishes off in style to take CSK to IPL 2021 final with DC win

<p>Chennai Super Kings enter Indian Premier League final after beating Delhi Capitals by four wickets in the first Qualifier here on Sunday.</p>

<p>CSK reached the target of 173 with two balls to spare with captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni remaining not out on 18 off six deliveries.</p>

<p>Ruturaj Gaikwad top-scored with a 50-ball 70 while Robin Uthappa contributed a 44-ball 63.</p>

<p>For DC, Tom Curran took three wickets while Anrich Nortje and Avesh Khan got one each.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/got-messages-saying-you-should-have-been-dead-varun-chakravarthy-on-contracting-covid-19-during-ipls-1st-leg-419701">Got messages saying you should have been dead: Varun Chakravarthy on contracting COVID-19 during IPL's 1st leg</a></strong></p>

<p>Earlier, Prithvi Shaw top-scored with a 34-ball 60, while captain Rishabh Pant and Shimron Hetmyer contributed 51 not out and 37 respectively after DC scored 172 for 5 after being invited to bat.</p>

<p>Josh Hazlewood was the pick of CSK bowlers with figures of 2/29 while Ravindra Jadeja, Dwayne Bravo and Moeen Ali took a wicket apiece.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We have out first Finalist for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> Final.<br />
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Who do you reckon will join <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSK</a> ? <a href="https://t.co/ifryDppFOi">pic.twitter.com/ifryDppFOi</a></p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">What a game of cricket that was! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSK</a>, they are now in Friday's Final of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> <a href="https://t.co/eiDV9Bwjm8">pic.twitter.com/eiDV9Bwjm8</a></p>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1447259987202482177?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Brief Scores:</strong></p>

<p><strong>Delhi Capitals:</strong> 172 for 5 in 20 overs (Prithvi Shaw 60, Rishabh Pant 51 not out; Josh Hazlewood 2/29).<br />
<strong>Chennai Super Kings:</strong> 173 for 6 in 19.4 overs (Ruturaj Gaikwad 70, Robin Uthappa 63; Tom Curran 3/29).</p>


Chennai Super Kings enter Indian Premier League final after beating Delhi Capitals by four wickets in the first Qualifier here on Sunday. CSK reached the target of 173 with two balls to spare with captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni remaining not out on 18 off six deliveries.

Chennai Super Kings enter Indian Premier League final after beating Delhi Capitals by four wickets in the first Qualifier here on Sunday. CSK reached the target of 173 with two balls to spare with captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni remaining not out on 18 off six deliveries. Ruturaj Gaikwad top-scored with a 50-ball 70 while Robin Uthappa contributed a 44-ball 63. For DC, Tom Curran took three wickets while Anrich Nortje and Avesh Khan got one each. ALSO READ | Got messages saying you should have been dead: Varun Chakravarthy on contracting COVID-19 during IPL's 1st leg Earlier, Prithvi Shaw top-scored with a 34-ball 60, while captain Rishabh Pant and Shimron Hetmyer contributed 51 not out and 37 respectively after DC scored 172 for 5 after being invited to bat. Josh Hazlewood was the pick of CSK bowlers with figures of 2/29 while Ravindra Jadeja, Dwayne Bravo and Moeen Ali took a wicket apiece. We have out first Finalist for #VIVOIPL Final. Who do you reckon will join #CSK ? pic.twitter.com/ifryDppFOi — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) October 10, 2021 × What a game of cricket that was! #CSK, they are now in Friday's Final of #VIVOIPL pic.twitter.com/eiDV9Bwjm8 — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) October 10, 2021 × Brief Scores: Delhi Capitals: 172 for 5 in 20 overs (Prithvi Shaw 60, Rishabh Pant 51 not out; Josh Hazlewood 2/29). Chennai Super Kings: 173 for 6 in 19.4 overs (Ruturaj Gaikwad 70, Robin Uthappa 63; Tom Curran 3/29).

IPL 2021: MS Dhoni's finishing touch, Ruturaj Gaikwad's 70 take CSK to 9th final, DC to play Qualifier 2

<p>Before the IPL Qualifier 1 match between Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings on Sunday, West Indian great Brian Lara lauded the Rishab Pant-led side's bowling attack, saying it can "destroy" the yellow army, however, he also warned that the "more experienced" Mahendra Singh Dhoni-led side bats deep and can be a better team on any given day.</p>

<p>"The four teams that have played the best cricket... Those four teams deserve to be in the playoffs. I am looking forward to this 1 vs 2 clash (Delhi Capitals vs Chennai Super Kings). It`s going to be exciting. This is an important game but teams might think they will have another game if they miss out this time around but teams at 3 and 4 (Royal Challengers Bangalore and Kolkata Knight Riders) are also very strong. Neither Chennai nor Delhi would be thinking about a defeat in this match (on Sunday),"&nbsp;Cricket.com quoted Lara as saying.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tom-moodys-desire-to-become-indias-next-head-coach-reason-behind-david-warners-fall-from-grace-at-srh-419434">Tom Moody's desire to become India's next head coach reason behind David Warner's fall from grace at SRH?</a></p>

<p>CSK, being the more experienced team, may have a little edge in the match, according to the former West Indies captain. CSK has beaten Delhi Capital twice in the league this season, but the Delhi team&nbsp;has a poor playoff record against the Dhoni-led side, losing two out of two games.</p>

<p>Delhi Capitals handle on Twitter posted a series of tweets&nbsp;recalling the two games between the teams:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Just taking you through some moments from our league stage encounters before the 2️⃣ big cats clash in Qualifier 1️⃣ 🤜🏼🤛🏼<br />
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🐯🆚🦁 🔥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YehHaiNayiDilli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YehHaiNayiDilli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DCvCSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DCvCSK</a> <a href="https://t.co/pecTu3BL2A">pic.twitter.com/pecTu3BL2A</a></p>
— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/1447146592281108483?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/1447146799202856963?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>"This is going to be a tough clash and it's very difficult to predict what's going to happen. Chennai have stumbled in their last three games, while Delhi too lost their last match. Delhi's bowling attack is going to ask Chennai a lot of questions and they can destroy them. Delhi have the best bowling attack in the IPL but CSK bat long. I can't decide who is going to win this one. Just in terms of talent, Delhi have some amazing young players but Chennai have the experience."</p>

<p>"Experience is Chennai's major asset. The two openers (Ruturaj Gaikwad and Faf du Plessis) are doing the business but they also have the experience of playing these important playoff games and that could come in handy. MS Dhoni and his brains and his thinking are going to come good," Lara stated.</p>

<p>Faf Du Plessis of South Africa has been in superb form, hitting 546 runs at an average of 45.5, while Gaikwad (533 runs at 44.42) has also had a dream season, though&nbsp;neither has dominated the Delhi bowlers. On October 4, Gaikwad struggled against the Delhi franchise's seamers, scoring only 13 runs, while du Plessis scored 10.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/video-analyst-captains-kkr-gautam-gambhir-fires-shots-at-eoin-morgan-ahead-of-ipl-2021-playoffs-419593">Video analyst captains KKR: Gautam Gambhir fires shots at Eoin Morgan ahead of IPL 2021 playoffs</a></strong></p>

<p>Lara anticipates the two seasoned starters to take it easy at first against the likes of Avesh Khan, Kagiso Rabada, and Anrich Nortje, before attacking them.</p>

<p>"That would be a wise call because Delhi haven't been great at the death like they were in 2020. Rabada was outstanding last year and Delhi were able to shut teams down in the last few overs. But, that hasn't been the case this year! You could easily be prepared for that and make sure you don't lose the game in the powerplay."<br />
<br />
"I feel that Avesh, Nortje and Rabada are doing most of the damage in the powerplay and Chennai could be slightly careful during that phase. They will target the two openers with short deliveries but if Faf and Gaikwad can see off the first few overs, the two could do some serious damage," added Lara.</p>


Before the IPL Qualifier 1 match between Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings on Sunday, West Indian great Brian Lara lauded the Rishab Pant-led side's bowling attack, saying it can "destroy" the yellow army, however, he also warned that the "more experienced" Mahendra Singh Dhoni-led side bats deep and can be a better team on any given day.

Before the IPL Qualifier 1 match between Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings on Sunday, West Indian great Brian Lara lauded the Rishab Pant-led side's bowling attack, saying it can "destroy" the yellow army, however, he also warned that the "more experienced" Mahendra Singh Dhoni-led side bats deep and can be a better team on any given day. "The four teams that have played the best cricket... Those four teams deserve to be in the playoffs. I am looking forward to this 1 vs 2 clash (Delhi Capitals vs Chennai Super Kings). It`s going to be exciting. This is an important game but teams might think they will have another game if they miss out this time around but teams at 3 and 4 (Royal Challengers Bangalore and Kolkata Knight Riders) are also very strong. Neither Chennai nor Delhi would be thinking about a defeat in this match (on Sunday)," Cricket.com quoted Lara as saying. Also Read: Tom Moody's desire to become India's next head coach reason behind David Warner's fall from grace at SRH? CSK, being the more experienced team, may have a little edge in the match, according to the former West Indies captain. CSK has beaten Delhi Capital twice in the league this season, but the Delhi team has a poor playoff record against the Dhoni-led side, losing two out of two games. Delhi Capitals handle on Twitter posted a series of tweets recalling the two games between the teams: Just taking you through some moments from our league stage encounters before the 2️⃣ big cats clash in Qualifier 1️⃣ 🤜🏼🤛🏼 🐯🆚🦁 🔥#YehHaiNayiDilli #IPL2021 #DCvCSK pic.twitter.com/pecTu3BL2A — Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) October 10, 2021 × pic.twitter.com/fb0KX8CeBx — Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) October 10, 2021 × pic.twitter.com/9KvzT3PkLn — Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) October 10, 2021 × "This is going to be a tough clash and it's very difficult to predict what's going to happen. Chennai have stumbled in their last three games, while Delhi too lost their last match. Delhi's bowling attack is going to ask Chennai a lot of questions and they can destroy them. Delhi have the best bowling attack in the IPL but CSK bat long. I can't decide who is going to win this one. Just in terms of talent, Delhi have some amazing young players but Chennai have the experience." "Experience is Chennai's major asset. The two openers (Ruturaj Gaikwad and Faf du Plessis) are doing the business but they also have the experience of playing these important playoff games and that could come in handy. MS Dhoni and his brains and his thinking are going to come good," Lara stated. Faf Du Plessis of South Africa has been in superb form, hitting 546 runs at an average of 45.5, while Gaikwad (533 runs at 44.42) has also had a dream season, though neither has dominated the Delhi bowlers. On October 4, Gaikwad struggled against the Delhi franchise's seamers, scoring only 13 runs, while du Plessis scored 10. Also Read: Video analyst captains KKR: Gautam Gambhir fires shots at Eoin Morgan ahead of IPL 2021 playoffs Lara anticipates the two seasoned starters to take it easy at first against the likes of Avesh Khan, Kagiso Rabada, and Anrich Nortje, before attacking them. "That would be a wise call because Delhi haven't been great at the death like they were in 2020. Rabada was outstanding last year and Delhi were able to shut teams down in the last few overs. But, that hasn't been the case this year! You could easily be prepared for that and make sure you don't lose the game in the powerplay." "I feel that Avesh, Nortje and Rabada are doing most of the damage in the powerplay and Chennai could be slightly careful during that phase. They will target the two openers with short deliveries but if Faf and Gaikwad can see off the first few overs, the two could do some serious damage," added Lara.

IPL 2021: CSK need to guard against devastating Delhi Capitals bowlers, says Brian Lara

<p>The IPL 2021 edition is nearing its conclusion as we head to the playoffs, from Sunday (October 10). For the unversed, the Delhi Capitals (DC), Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) ended as the top-four sides in the league stage as the competition will now get more intense.</p>

<p>The stage is set for a blockbuster finish as two out of the four teams will look to clinch their maiden title whereas the experienced CSK and KKR unit will try to add another trophy to their respective cabinets.</p>

<p>Talking about the Delhi unit, they have reaped rewards post their revamp after the 2018 season. From 2008-2018, Delhi had reached the playoffs only on three occasions.&nbsp;Since 2019, DC have made it to the last four every single time; also playing their first-ever final last year. As they look to go a step ahead and win their first-ever IPL trophy, <em>WION News'&nbsp;Aditya Sahay </em>had a chat with DC's assistant coach and former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Ajay Ratra on Rishabh Pant's captaincy, Ricky Ponting-led Delhi camp's astute coaching staff and the one-time runners-up having the wood over CSK in 2021.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-qualifier-1-dc-vs-csk-head-to-head-record-trivia-stats-and-squads-419606">IPL 2021, Qualifier 1: DC vs CSK - Head to head record, trivia, stats and squads</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Q1) DC will enter the Qualifier 1 by having a 2-0 lead over MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK); also beating them at the same venue just a few days. Though one needs to start afresh and everyday throws a new challenge, do you think DC having the wood over the experienced CSK line-up will help in the first Qualifier?</strong></p>

<p>Yes, we have beaten CSK twice this season. It&nbsp;is definitely a good feeling beating a very good team like Chennai. You get a lot of confidence and the other team does feel the heat.&nbsp;Having said that, whatever our plans and strategies we have in-line, we need to execute them once again on the particular day&nbsp;to emerge on top.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Q2) Playing brilliant cricket in IPL 2020, DC were outfoxed by the experienced MI in the final. As the franchise is aiming to enter their second successive final, and emerge on top, how has the entire coaching and support staff worked with the players to help them grow from the missed opportunities in IPL 2020?</strong></p>

<p>We have five coaches altogether, headed by Ricky Ponting. We have a very good understanding and communication. There are specific coaches for specific roles. It might look on field that lot of things happen on the 22-yard cricket strip by players, but there are a&nbsp;lot of planning&nbsp;and strategies&nbsp;happen&nbsp;behind-the-door&nbsp;or from the backend.</p>

<p>There have been occasions in this season where we have fielded only three overseas players but still won. We are performing as a team. It has been a complete team performance as we aren't relying on certain individuals. Performances are coming from all corners. Ponting is very communicative with the players and in that&nbsp;way, we have an edge (over others). Players are prepared to be mentally tough under someone like&nbsp;Punter.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Q3) The discussion might have been a lengthy one regarding who should captain DC in the final leg. How has Pant been as captain according to you? Mention one quality of him as a young leader, who is looking to change DC's fortunes this time around.</strong></p>

<p>This is the first time that Pant is leading in the IPL. He has led in the Delhi team in the past but leading an IPL team is a different ball-game. In Rishabh's case, he is quite clear on what he wants to do. It might not seem logical from the outside, but he goes with his instincts and backs himself. Every decision has pros and cons. But in his case, he is very clear. Ofcourse, he's in the growing stage but will get&nbsp;better with each match. The more he plays as captain, the better he will get.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-playoffs-schedule-rishabh-pant-led-dc-face-ms-dhonis-csk-in-qualifier-1-rcb-kkr-to-play-eliminator-419342">IPL 2021 playoffs schedule: Rishabh Pant-led DC face MS Dhoni's CSK in Qualifier 1, RCB-KKR to play Eliminator</a></strong></p>

<p>DC have unfulfilled business in IPL 14. They won't be content by finishing atop in the points table. After the missed opportunities in 2020, they are eager to win their maiden IPL championship. Their current batch made some mistakes last season, however, they are hell bent to return victorious and prove the saying that while 'all men make mistakes but only wise men learn from them'.</p>

<p>DC lock horns with CSK in Qualifier 1 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, on October 10 (Sunday). Meanwhile, KKR-RCB will play the Eliminator on Monday (October 11).</p>


The IPL 2021 edition is nearing its conclusion as we head to the playoffs, from Sunday (October 10). For the unversed, the Delhi Capitals (DC), Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) ended as the top-four sides in the league stage as the competition will now get more intense.

The IPL 2021 edition is nearing its conclusion as we head to the playoffs, from Sunday (October 10). For the unversed, the Delhi Capitals (DC), Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) ended as the top-four sides in the league stage as the competition will now get more intense. The stage is set for a blockbuster finish as two out of the four teams will look to clinch their maiden title whereas the experienced CSK and KKR unit will try to add another trophy to their respective cabinets. Talking about the Delhi unit, they have reaped rewards post their revamp after the 2018 season. From 2008-2018, Delhi had reached the playoffs only on three occasions. Since 2019, DC have made it to the last four every single time; also playing their first-ever final last year. As they look to go a step ahead and win their first-ever IPL trophy, WION News' Aditya Sahay had a chat with DC's assistant coach and former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Ajay Ratra on Rishabh Pant's captaincy, Ricky Ponting-led Delhi camp's astute coaching staff and the one-time runners-up having the wood over CSK in 2021. ALSO READ | IPL 2021, Qualifier 1: DC vs CSK - Head to head record, trivia, stats and squads Q1) DC will enter the Qualifier 1 by having a 2-0 lead over MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK); also beating them at the same venue just a few days. Though one needs to start afresh and everyday throws a new challenge, do you think DC having the wood over the experienced CSK line-up will help in the first Qualifier? Yes, we have beaten CSK twice this season. It is definitely a good feeling beating a very good team like Chennai. You get a lot of confidence and the other team does feel the heat. Having said that, whatever our plans and strategies we have in-line, we need to execute them once again on the particular day to emerge on top. Q2) Playing brilliant cricket in IPL 2020, DC were outfoxed by the experienced MI in the final. As the franchise is aiming to enter their second successive final, and emerge on top, how has the entire coaching and support staff worked with the players to help them grow from the missed opportunities in IPL 2020? We have five coaches altogether, headed by Ricky Ponting. We have a very good understanding and communication. There are specific coaches for specific roles. It might look on field that lot of things happen on the 22-yard cricket strip by players, but there are a lot of planning and strategies happen behind-the-door or from the backend. There have been occasions in this season where we have fielded only three overseas players but still won. We are performing as a team. It has been a complete team performance as we aren't relying on certain individuals. Performances are coming from all corners. Ponting is very communicative with the players and in that way, we have an edge (over others). Players are prepared to be mentally tough under someone like Punter. Q3) The discussion might have been a lengthy one regarding who should captain DC in the final leg. How has Pant been as captain according to you? Mention one quality of him as a young leader, who is looking to change DC's fortunes this time around. This is the first time that Pant is leading in the IPL. He has led in the Delhi team in the past but leading an IPL team is a different ball-game. In Rishabh's case, he is quite clear on what he wants to do. It might not seem logical from the outside, but he goes with his instincts and backs himself. Every decision has pros and cons. But in his case, he is very clear. Ofcourse, he's in the growing stage but will get better with each match. The more he plays as captain, the better he will get. ALSO READ | IPL 2021 playoffs schedule: Rishabh Pant-led DC face MS Dhoni's CSK in Qualifier 1, RCB-KKR to play Eliminator DC have unfulfilled business in IPL 14. They won't be content by finishing atop in the points table. After the missed opportunities in 2020, they are eager to win their maiden IPL championship. Their current batch made some mistakes last season, however, they are hell bent to return victorious and prove the saying that while 'all men make mistakes but only wise men learn from them'. DC lock horns with CSK in Qualifier 1 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, on October 10 (Sunday). Meanwhile, KKR-RCB will play the Eliminator on Monday (October 11).

EXCLUSIVE | DC's assistant coach opines on Rishabh Pant's captaincy, Delhi's 2-0 edge vs CSK before playoffs

<p>Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will be looking to bring an end to their 4-match losing streak against Delhi Capitals (DC) when they lock horns with Rishabh Pant &amp; Co. in the Qualifier 1 of IPL 2021 on Sunday (October 10). MS Dhoni-led CSK will be eyeing their ninth final in the IPL while Delhi Capitals will be battling it out for a second straight appearance in the final after finishing runners-up last season.</p>

<p>After missing out on a spot in the playoffs last season, Dhoni's CSK completed an incredible turnaround this year as they become the first team to reach the playoffs of IPL 2021. However, CSK have lost the momentum in their last few games and are currently on a losing streak of three matches.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Delhi Capitals started from where they had left last season and have had a brilliant campaign so far. They are placed on the top of the points table with 20 points from 14 matches and will be hoping to make it to the final once again this year. DC have defeated CSK in their last four meetings and a win on Sunday will confirm their spot in the final of IPL 2021.</p>

<p>DC might have had a remarkable rise in the last couple of years, but Dhoni's CSK have traditionally dominated the knockout stages of IPL. CSK have played a staggering eight finals and have 13 wins to their name in 22 playoff matches in the history of the tournament.</p>

<p>In what is expected to be Dhoni's final IPL season with CSK, the Men in Yellow will be looking to give their all and reach the final in their first attempt on Sunday. The loser of Qualifier 1 will get another shot at redemption against the winner of the Eliminator between RCB and KKR.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Here is all you need to know about IPL 2021's Qualifier 1 between DC and CSK:</strong></p>

<p><strong>Head to head:</strong></p>

<p>Chennai Super Kings have enjoyed an edge over Delhi Capitals when it comes to the head to head record between the two sides in IPL with 15 wins in 25 matches. However, Delhi Capitals have dominated CSK in the last couple of years and have not lost against MS Dhoni's men in their last four meetings.</p>

<p><strong>Stats:</strong></p>

<p>CSK pacer Deepak Chahar owns a formidable record against Delhi Capitals opener Prithvi Shaw, having dismissed him as many as six times in the IPL. Chahar will be looking to make it seven times on Sunday to ensure CSK get a good start with the ball in the all-important game.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/video-analyst-captains-kkr-gautam-gambhir-fires-shots-at-eoin-morgan-ahead-of-ipl-2021-playoffs-419593">Video analyst captains KKR: Gautam Gambhir fires shots at Eoin Morgan ahead of IPL 2021 playoffs</a></p>

<p><strong>Trivia:</strong></p>

<p>Rishabh Pant's first game of the season as the captain of Delhi Capitals was against CSK where he led his team to a thumping win. He once again outclassed his mentor MS Dhoni in the second meeting between the two sides this season. If Pant can make it three wins in a row against Dhoni on Sunday, DC will be the favourites for the title this season.</p>

<p><strong>Squads:</strong></p>

<p><strong>Delhi Capitals:&nbsp;</strong>Rishabh Pant(w/c), Shikhar Dhawan, Prithvi Shaw, Shreyas Iyer, Shimron Hetmyer, Ripal Patel, Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin, Kagiso Rabada, Avesh Khan, Anrich Nortje, Vishnu Vinod, Kulwant Khejroliya, Lalit Yadav, Praveen Dubey, Ben Dwarshuis, Tom Curran, Lukman Meriwala, Marcus Stoinis, Sam Billings, Steven Smith, Umesh Yadav, Amit Mishra, Ajinkya Rahane, Ishant Sharma</p>

<p><strong>Chennai Super Kings: </strong>MS Dhoni(w/c),&nbsp;Ruturaj Gaikwad, Faf du Plessis, Moeen Ali, Robin Uthappa, Ambati Rayudu, Ravindra Jadeja, Dwayne Bravo, Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar, Josh Hazlewood, Suresh Raina, Imran Tahir, Jason Behrendorff, Krishnappa Gowtham, Lungi Ngidi, Mitchell Santner, Ravisrinivasan Sai Kishore, Hari Nishanth, N Jagadeesan, KM Asif, Harishankar Reddy, Dominic Drakes, Bhagath Varma, Karn Sharma, Cheteshwar Pujara</p>

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Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will be looking to bring an end to their 4-match losing streak against Delhi Capitals (DC) when they lock horns with Rishabh Pant & Co.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will be looking to bring an end to their 4-match losing streak against Delhi Capitals (DC) when they lock horns with Rishabh Pant & Co. in the Qualifier 1 of IPL 2021 on Sunday (October 10). MS Dhoni-led CSK will be eyeing their ninth final in the IPL while Delhi Capitals will be battling it out for a second straight appearance in the final after finishing runners-up last season. After missing out on a spot in the playoffs last season, Dhoni's CSK completed an incredible turnaround this year as they become the first team to reach the playoffs of IPL 2021. However, CSK have lost the momentum in their last few games and are currently on a losing streak of three matches. Delhi Capitals started from where they had left last season and have had a brilliant campaign so far. They are placed on the top of the points table with 20 points from 14 matches and will be hoping to make it to the final once again this year. DC have defeated CSK in their last four meetings and a win on Sunday will confirm their spot in the final of IPL 2021. DC might have had a remarkable rise in the last couple of years, but Dhoni's CSK have traditionally dominated the knockout stages of IPL. CSK have played a staggering eight finals and have 13 wins to their name in 22 playoff matches in the history of the tournament. In what is expected to be Dhoni's final IPL season with CSK, the Men in Yellow will be looking to give their all and reach the final in their first attempt on Sunday. The loser of Qualifier 1 will get another shot at redemption against the winner of the Eliminator between RCB and KKR. Here is all you need to know about IPL 2021's Qualifier 1 between DC and CSK: Head to head: Chennai Super Kings have enjoyed an edge over Delhi Capitals when it comes to the head to head record between the two sides in IPL with 15 wins in 25 matches. However, Delhi Capitals have dominated CSK in the last couple of years and have not lost against MS Dhoni's men in their last four meetings. Stats: CSK pacer Deepak Chahar owns a formidable record against Delhi Capitals opener Prithvi Shaw, having dismissed him as many as six times in the IPL. Chahar will be looking to make it seven times on Sunday to ensure CSK get a good start with the ball in the all-important game. Also Read: Video analyst captains KKR: Gautam Gambhir fires shots at Eoin Morgan ahead of IPL 2021 playoffs Trivia: Rishabh Pant's first game of the season as the captain of Delhi Capitals was against CSK where he led his team to a thumping win. He once again outclassed his mentor MS Dhoni in the second meeting between the two sides this season. If Pant can make it three wins in a row against Dhoni on Sunday, DC will be the favourites for the title this season. Squads: Delhi Capitals: Rishabh Pant(w/c), Shikhar Dhawan, Prithvi Shaw, Shreyas Iyer, Shimron Hetmyer, Ripal Patel, Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin, Kagiso Rabada, Avesh Khan, Anrich Nortje, Vishnu Vinod, Kulwant Khejroliya, Lalit Yadav, Praveen Dubey, Ben Dwarshuis, Tom Curran, Lukman Meriwala, Marcus Stoinis, Sam Billings, Steven Smith, Umesh Yadav, Amit Mishra, Ajinkya Rahane, Ishant Sharma Chennai Super Kings: MS Dhoni(w/c), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Faf du Plessis, Moeen Ali, Robin Uthappa, Ambati Rayudu, Ravindra Jadeja, Dwayne Bravo, Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar, Josh Hazlewood, Suresh Raina, Imran Tahir, Jason Behrendorff, Krishnappa Gowtham, Lungi Ngidi, Mitchell Santner, Ravisrinivasan Sai Kishore, Hari Nishanth, N Jagadeesan, KM Asif, Harishankar Reddy, Dominic Drakes, Bhagath Varma, Karn Sharma, Cheteshwar Pujara

IPL 2021, Qualifier 1: DC vs CSK - Head to head record, trivia, stats and squads

<p>A spot in the final will be on the line when MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings (CSK) take on table-toppers Delhi Capitals (DC) in Qualifier 1 of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 on Sunday (October 10). Delhi Capitals finished on the top of the points table with ten wins from 14 matches while CSK finished second with nine wins from as many games.</p>

<p>Both the teams have had a stellar season and will be hoping to become the first team to make it to the final when they lock horns at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Sunday. Delhi Capitals have been the better side against CSK this season and have two wins in two meetings against Dhoni's men.</p>

<p>Both DC and CSK are heading into the first Qualifier on the back of defeats in their respective last outings. While Chennai Super Kings lost against Punjab Kings by six wickets in their last game, DC lost against Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore by seven wickets in their last game. RCB chased down the target of 165 runs on the final ball of the 20th over to clinch a thrilling win over the Pant-led side.</p>

<p>CSK were the first team to seal a spot in the playoffs in IPL 2021 but have struggled to find consistency in the last few games. They have suffered back-to-back defeats in their last four&nbsp;games and will be desperately looking to bounce back to winning ways against DC, who are eyeing a second successive final appearance in the IPL.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/suresh-raina-or-robin-uthappa-gautam-gambhir-names-batsman-csk-should-persist-with-in-ipl-2021-playoffs-419403">&nbsp;Suresh Raina or Robin Uthappa? Gautam Gambhir names batsman CSK should persist with in IPL 2021 playoffs</a></p>

<p>Though CSK have not been at their very best in their last three games, they are arguably the most experienced when it comes to playing knockout games in the IPL. Dhoni has led CSK to three titles and a staggering eight finals which proves the Men in Yellow have the big-game pedigree and will be hoping to make it to their ninth final on Sunday.</p>

<p><strong>DC vs CSK, IPL 2021 Qualifier 1 prediction:</strong></p>

<p>In 25 meetings between the two sides, CSK have defeated Delhi Capitals 15 times. However, in the last couple of seasons, DC have dominated Dhoni &amp; Co. in the IPL. CSK are currently on a losing streak of four&nbsp;matches against DC and will be looking to bring an end to that in Qualifier 1 on Sunday. The odds are stacked against CSK with three losses in a row in their last three matches but Dhoni's men might emerge on top against DC tonight.</p>


A spot in the final will be on the line when MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings (CSK) take on table-toppers Delhi Capitals (DC) in Qualifier 1 of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 on Sunday (October 10).

A spot in the final will be on the line when MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings (CSK) take on table-toppers Delhi Capitals (DC) in Qualifier 1 of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 on Sunday (October 10). Delhi Capitals finished on the top of the points table with ten wins from 14 matches while CSK finished second with nine wins from as many games. Both the teams have had a stellar season and will be hoping to become the first team to make it to the final when they lock horns at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Sunday. Delhi Capitals have been the better side against CSK this season and have two wins in two meetings against Dhoni's men. Both DC and CSK are heading into the first Qualifier on the back of defeats in their respective last outings. While Chennai Super Kings lost against Punjab Kings by six wickets in their last game, DC lost against Virat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore by seven wickets in their last game. RCB chased down the target of 165 runs on the final ball of the 20th over to clinch a thrilling win over the Pant-led side. CSK were the first team to seal a spot in the playoffs in IPL 2021 but have struggled to find consistency in the last few games. They have suffered back-to-back defeats in their last four games and will be desperately looking to bounce back to winning ways against DC, who are eyeing a second successive final appearance in the IPL. Also Read: Suresh Raina or Robin Uthappa? Gautam Gambhir names batsman CSK should persist with in IPL 2021 playoffs Though CSK have not been at their very best in their last three games, they are arguably the most experienced when it comes to playing knockout games in the IPL. Dhoni has led CSK to three titles and a staggering eight finals which proves the Men in Yellow have the big-game pedigree and will be hoping to make it to their ninth final on Sunday. DC vs CSK, IPL 2021 Qualifier 1 prediction: In 25 meetings between the two sides, CSK have defeated Delhi Capitals 15 times. However, in the last couple of seasons, DC have dominated Dhoni & Co. in the IPL. CSK are currently on a losing streak of four matches against DC and will be looking to bring an end to that in Qualifier 1 on Sunday. The odds are stacked against CSK with three losses in a row in their last three matches but Dhoni's men might emerge on top against DC tonight.

DC vs CSK, IPL 2021 prediction today: Who will win Chennai Super Kings vs Delhi Capitals Qualifier 1?

<p>Former India opener Gautam Gambhir believes Chennai Super Kings (CSK) should persist with senior batsman Robin Uthappa in the middle-order in the upcoming IPL 2021 playoffs. CSK will take on table-toppers Delhi Capitals (DC) in Qualifier 1 on Sunday (October 10). Ahead of the all-important game, Gambhir revealed his choice between Suresh Raina and Uthappa in the middle-order for CSK.</p>

<p>CSK's middle-order remains a huge concern for the Men in Yellow ahead of the playoffs. While captain MS Dhoni himself has struggled to score runs consistently, the likes of Raina and Uthappa haven't fired either. Raina was dropped from the playing XI in CSK's last two games against DC and Punjab Kings respectively as Uthappa took his place in the XI.</p>

<p>However, Uthappa too failed to impress and could only manage 21 runs in two outings for the Dhoni-led side. However, Gambhir believes CSK should pick Uthappa over Raina in the playing XI in the knockout stages. The former Kolkata Knight Riders skipper believes Uthappa will come good if he is persisted with.</p>

<p>"Uthappa. Although he hasn't grabbed his opportunities, I still believe you got to persist with Robin Uthappa and he will come good," said Gambhir.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-sport-uae-2021-instead-of-india-2021-in-t20-world-cup-jersey-leaked-picture-sparks-controversy-419359">Pakistan sport 'UAE 2021' instead of India 2021 in T20 World Cup jersey, leaked picture sparks controversy</a></p>

<p>However, former New Zealand and Royal Challengers Bangalore captain Daniel Vettori said he will continue to back Raina. Vettori believes Raina is an experienced campaigner and is used to the pressure of playing in big matches.</p>

<p>"I will always go to Raina. I think he is that sort of player who is used to these situations and big games and could come off in the pivotal moment," he said.</p>

<p>Raina has so far played 12 matches this season and has managed to score only 160 runs in what has been a disastrous campaign for CSK's highest run-getter in IPL history.</p>


Former India opener Gautam Gambhir believes Chennai Super Kings (CSK) should persist with senior batsman Robin Uthappa in the middle-order in the upcoming IPL 2021 playoffs.

Former India opener Gautam Gambhir believes Chennai Super Kings (CSK) should persist with senior batsman Robin Uthappa in the middle-order in the upcoming IPL 2021 playoffs. CSK will take on table-toppers Delhi Capitals (DC) in Qualifier 1 on Sunday (October 10). Ahead of the all-important game, Gambhir revealed his choice between Suresh Raina and Uthappa in the middle-order for CSK. CSK's middle-order remains a huge concern for the Men in Yellow ahead of the playoffs. While captain MS Dhoni himself has struggled to score runs consistently, the likes of Raina and Uthappa haven't fired either. Raina was dropped from the playing XI in CSK's last two games against DC and Punjab Kings respectively as Uthappa took his place in the XI. However, Uthappa too failed to impress and could only manage 21 runs in two outings for the Dhoni-led side. However, Gambhir believes CSK should pick Uthappa over Raina in the playing XI in the knockout stages. The former Kolkata Knight Riders skipper believes Uthappa will come good if he is persisted with. "Uthappa. Although he hasn't grabbed his opportunities, I still believe you got to persist with Robin Uthappa and he will come good," said Gambhir. Also Read: Pakistan sport 'UAE 2021' instead of India 2021 in T20 World Cup jersey, leaked picture sparks controversy However, former New Zealand and Royal Challengers Bangalore captain Daniel Vettori said he will continue to back Raina. Vettori believes Raina is an experienced campaigner and is used to the pressure of playing in big matches. "I will always go to Raina. I think he is that sort of player who is used to these situations and big games and could come off in the pivotal moment," he said. Raina has so far played 12 matches this season and has managed to score only 160 runs in what has been a disastrous campaign for CSK's highest run-getter in IPL history.

Suresh Raina or Robin Uthappa? Gautam Gambhir names batsman CSK should persist with in IPL 2021 playoffs