<p>IPL 2023 came to a fitting end on May 30&nbsp;(Tuesday) as the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) won their fifth title, joint-most along with arch-rivals Mumbai Indians (MI), by beating defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in Ahmedabad. Thus, the Yellow Army gave plenty to rejoice for their ardent fans who turned up in large numbers in every game to back the iconic franchise.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The final was to be held on May 28 (Sunday) but&nbsp;due to persistent rain, it got stretched&nbsp;to the reserve day,&nbsp;on Monday (May 29) in Ahmedabad. Even on the reserve day, rain made its presence felt and the game ended in the wee hours of Tuesday (May 30).</p>

<p>Opting to bowl first, CSK bowlers were poor and fielders remained sloppy as GT rode on Sai Sudharsan's 96 (47), Wriddhiman Saha's 54 (39) and Shubman Gill's 20-ball 39 to post 214-4. In reply, CSK's chase was dented with a lengthy rain break.</p>

<p>After much delay, it was a 15-over game with CSK needing 171 for a win. Ruturaj Gaikwad's 16-ball 26, Devon Conway's 25-ball 47, Ajinkya Rahane's 13-ball 27, Shivam Dube's 21-ball 32*, Ambati Rayudu's 8-ball 19 and Ravindra Jadeja's 6-ball 15* (with a six and a four on the last two deliveries) took Chennai to a thrilling five-wicket win over defending champions on the last ball of the contest.</p>

<p>The IPL 2023 edition has been a huge success. The almost two-month-long season saw plenty of humdingers, a plethora of talent on display, and an intense fight between teams to finish in the top four before CSK prevailed on top with a clinical win in the finale. <strong>Here's an updated list of IPL winners since the inaugural season kicked off in 2008:</strong></p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-2008-to-2022-player-of-the-match-awardees-in-15-ipl-finals-player-of-the-tournament-winners-597845">From 2008 to 2022: Player of the Match awardees in 15 IPL finals, Player of the Tournament winners</a></strong></p>

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td><strong>Year</strong></td>
			<td style="width: 226px;"><strong>Champions</strong></td>
			<td style="width: 214px;"><strong>Runners-up</strong></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2008</td>
			<td style="width: 226px;">Rajasthan Royals</td>
			<td style="width: 214px;">Chennai Super Kings</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2009</td>
			<td style="width: 226px;">Deccan Chargers</td>
			<td style="width: 214px;">Royal Challengers Bangalore</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2010</td>
			<td style="width: 226px;">Chennai Super Kings</td>
			<td style="width: 214px;">Mumbai Indians</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2011</td>
			<td style="width: 226px;">Chennai Super Kings</td>
			<td style="width: 214px;">Royal Challengers Bangalore</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2012</td>
			<td style="width: 226px;">Kolkata Knight Riders</td>
			<td style="width: 214px;">Chennai Super Kings</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2013</td>
			<td style="width: 226px;">Mumbai Indians</td>
			<td style="width: 214px;">Chennai Super Kings</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2014</td>
			<td style="width: 226px;">Kolkata Knight Riders</td>
			<td style="width: 214px;">Kings XI Punjab</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2015</td>
			<td style="width: 226px;">Mumbai Indians</td>
			<td style="width: 214px;">Chennai Super Kings</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2016</td>
			<td style="width: 226px;">Sunrisers Hyderabad</td>
			<td style="width: 214px;">Royal Challengers Bangalore</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2017</td>
			<td style="width: 226px;">Mumbai Indians</td>
			<td style="width: 214px;">Rising Pune Supergiant</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2018</td>
			<td style="width: 226px;">Chennai Super Kings</td>
			<td style="width: 214px;">Sunrisers Hyderabad</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2019</td>
			<td style="width: 226px;">Mumbai Indians</td>
			<td style="width: 214px;">Chennai Super Kings</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2020</td>
			<td style="width: 226px;">Mumbai Indians</td>
			<td style="width: 214px;">Delhi Capitals</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2021</td>
			<td style="width: 226px;">Chennai Super Kings</td>
			<td style="width: 214px;">Kolkata Knight Riders</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2022</td>
			<td style="width: 226px;">Gujarat Titans</td>
			<td style="width: 214px;">Rajasthan Royals</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2023</td>
			<td style="width: 226px;">Chennai Super Kings</td>
			<td style="width: 214px;">Gujarat Titans</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

<p>Thus, CSK levelled with arch-rivals MI in terms of most IPL titles (five each) whereas GT missed out on completing a rare double in what was only their second appearance in the cash-rich league. However, they have given a good account of themselves already and have a bright future to dominate the league in the upcoming seasons.</p>

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IPL 2023 came to a fitting end on May 30 (Tuesday) as the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) won their fifth title, joint-most along with arch-rivals Mumbai Indians (MI), by beating defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in Ahmedabad.

IPL 2023 came to a fitting end on May 30 (Tuesday) as the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) won their fifth title, joint-most along with arch-rivals Mumbai Indians (MI), by beating defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in Ahmedabad. Thus, the Yellow Army gave plenty to rejoice for their ardent fans who turned up in large numbers in every game to back the iconic franchise. The final was to be held on May 28 (Sunday) but due to persistent rain, it got stretched to the reserve day, on Monday (May 29) in Ahmedabad. Even on the reserve day, rain made its presence felt and the game ended in the wee hours of Tuesday (May 30). Opting to bowl first, CSK bowlers were poor and fielders remained sloppy as GT rode on Sai Sudharsan's 96 (47), Wriddhiman Saha's 54 (39) and Shubman Gill's 20-ball 39 to post 214-4. In reply, CSK's chase was dented with a lengthy rain break. After much delay, it was a 15-over game with CSK needing 171 for a win. Ruturaj Gaikwad's 16-ball 26, Devon Conway's 25-ball 47, Ajinkya Rahane's 13-ball 27, Shivam Dube's 21-ball 32*, Ambati Rayudu's 8-ball 19 and Ravindra Jadeja's 6-ball 15* (with a six and a four on the last two deliveries) took Chennai to a thrilling five-wicket win over defending champions on the last ball of the contest. The IPL 2023 edition has been a huge success. The almost two-month-long season saw plenty of humdingers, a plethora of talent on display, and an intense fight between teams to finish in the top four before CSK prevailed on top with a clinical win in the finale. Here's an updated list of IPL winners since the inaugural season kicked off in 2008: Also Read: From 2008 to 2022: Player of the Match awardees in 15 IPL finals, Player of the Tournament winners Year Champions Runners-up 2008 Rajasthan Royals Chennai Super Kings 2009 Deccan Chargers Royal Challengers Bangalore 2010 Chennai Super Kings Mumbai Indians 2011 Chennai Super Kings Royal Challengers Bangalore 2012 Kolkata Knight Riders Chennai Super Kings 2013 Mumbai Indians Chennai Super Kings 2014 Kolkata Knight Riders Kings XI Punjab 2015 Mumbai Indians Chennai Super Kings 2016 Sunrisers Hyderabad Royal Challengers Bangalore 2017 Mumbai Indians Rising Pune Supergiant 2018 Chennai Super Kings Sunrisers Hyderabad 2019 Mumbai Indians Chennai Super Kings 2020 Mumbai Indians Delhi Capitals 2021 Chennai Super Kings Kolkata Knight Riders 2022 Gujarat Titans Rajasthan Royals 2023 Chennai Super Kings Gujarat Titans Thus, CSK levelled with arch-rivals MI in terms of most IPL titles (five each) whereas GT missed out on completing a rare double in what was only their second appearance in the cash-rich league. However, they have given a good account of themselves already and have a bright future to dominate the league in the upcoming seasons. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

From Rajasthan Royals to Chennai Super Kings - List of IPL winners

<p>Former Australia cricketer and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) head coach Tom Moody feels the rain break helped Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in their thrilling five-wicket win over defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in IPL 2023 final, which ended in the wee hours on Tuesday (May 30) in Ahmedabad. After opting to bowl first in the summit clash, MS Dhoni &amp; Co. were in for a leather hunt as GT rode on Wriddhiman Saha's 39-ball 54 and Sai Sudharsan's classy 47-ball 96 to post 214/4. In reply, Chennai started the run-chase being 4 for no loss in three balls before a lengthy rain break halted proceedings for over two hours.</p>

<p>After play resumed, CSK got a revised target -- 171 in 15 overs -- which they chased down with quickfire knocks from Ruturaj Gaikwad (16-ball 26), Devon Conway's 25-ball 47, Ajinkya Rahane's 13-ball 27, Ambati Rayudu's 9-ball 18. Shivam Dube's 21-ball 32* and 6-ball 15 not out from Ravindra Jadeja. With 10 needed off the last two balls, Jadeja ended proceedings with a six and a four, off Mohit Sharma (3 for 36), as CSK lifted their fifth IPL trophy. Moody feels CSK got the advantage with the rain break and made full use of it.</p>

<h2><strong>'Rain delay definitely gave CSK the advantage'</strong></h2>

<p>“That rain delay definitely gave CSK the advantage. Therefore, the toss, and batting second, played out in their favour. To me, the total they had to chase with a reduced number of overs was more favourable than the total that they actually would have had to chase if it was a full game,” said Moody.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-one-can-match-ms-dhonis-legacy-in-ipl-ravi-shastri-lauds-csk-skipper-after-yellow-army-win-5th-title-598344">'No one can match MS Dhoni's legacy in IPL': Ravi Shastri lauds CSK skipper after Yellow Army win 5th title</a></strong></p>

<p>After CSK's win, Dhoni also opened up on his IPL future and said that there is a possibility for him to return for IPL 2024. At the post-match presentation, he said, "Circumstantially if you see, this is the best time to announce my retirement. But the amount of love and affection I have been shown wherever I have been this year, the easy thing would be for me to say "Thank you very much", but the tough thing for me is to work hard for another nine&nbsp;months and come back and play at least one&nbsp;more season of IPL. A lot depends on the body, I have 6-7 months to decide. It will be more like a gift from my side, it's not easy for me but that's a gift. The way they've shown their love and affection, I think that's something I need to do for them."</p>


Former Australia cricketer and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) head coach Tom Moody feels the rain break helped Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in their thrilling five-wicket win over defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in IPL 2023 final, which ended in the wee hours on Tuesday (May 30) in Ahmedabad.

Former Australia cricketer and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) head coach Tom Moody feels the rain break helped Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in their thrilling five-wicket win over defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in IPL 2023 final, which ended in the wee hours on Tuesday (May 30) in Ahmedabad. After opting to bowl first in the summit clash, MS Dhoni & Co. were in for a leather hunt as GT rode on Wriddhiman Saha's 39-ball 54 and Sai Sudharsan's classy 47-ball 96 to post 214/4. In reply, Chennai started the run-chase being 4 for no loss in three balls before a lengthy rain break halted proceedings for over two hours. After play resumed, CSK got a revised target -- 171 in 15 overs -- which they chased down with quickfire knocks from Ruturaj Gaikwad (16-ball 26), Devon Conway's 25-ball 47, Ajinkya Rahane's 13-ball 27, Ambati Rayudu's 9-ball 18. Shivam Dube's 21-ball 32* and 6-ball 15 not out from Ravindra Jadeja. With 10 needed off the last two balls, Jadeja ended proceedings with a six and a four, off Mohit Sharma (3 for 36), as CSK lifted their fifth IPL trophy. Moody feels CSK got the advantage with the rain break and made full use of it. 'Rain delay definitely gave CSK the advantage' “That rain delay definitely gave CSK the advantage. Therefore, the toss, and batting second, played out in their favour. To me, the total they had to chase with a reduced number of overs was more favourable than the total that they actually would have had to chase if it was a full game,” said Moody. Also Read: 'No one can match MS Dhoni's legacy in IPL': Ravi Shastri lauds CSK skipper after Yellow Army win 5th title After CSK's win, Dhoni also opened up on his IPL future and said that there is a possibility for him to return for IPL 2024. At the post-match presentation, he said, "Circumstantially if you see, this is the best time to announce my retirement. But the amount of love and affection I have been shown wherever I have been this year, the easy thing would be for me to say "Thank you very much", but the tough thing for me is to work hard for another nine months and come back and play at least one more season of IPL. A lot depends on the body, I have 6-7 months to decide. It will be more like a gift from my side, it's not easy for me but that's a gift. The way they've shown their love and affection, I think that's something I need to do for them."

Rain delay definitely gave CSK the advantage vs GT, says Tom Moody after MS Dhoni & Co. win IPL 2023 final

<p>Chennai Super Kings (CSK) head coach Stephen Fleming has praised the efforts of Ravindra Jadeja after he helped Chennai Super Kings (CSK) win their fifth Indian Premier League (IPL) title in the wee hours of Tuesday. Jadeja, who has been in and out of both team India and CSK, has endured a tough 18-month period, where he also relinquished his captaincy of the franchise. Coach Fleming though, was full of praise for him and insisted that the faith was repaid.</p>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">𝙒𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙙𝙚𝙙𝙞𝙘𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙏𝙞𝙩𝙡𝙚 𝙑𝙞𝙘𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙮 𝙩𝙤 𝙈𝙎 𝘿𝙝𝙤𝙣𝙞 💛<br />
<br />
Men of the moment <a href="https://twitter.com/imjadeja?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imjadeja</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/IamShivamDube?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IamShivamDube</a> recap <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSK</a>'s glorious win in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> 2023 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Final?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Final</a> 👌🏻👌🏻 - By <a href="https://twitter.com/ameyatilak?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ameyatilak</a><br />
<br />
Full Interview 🎥🔽 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSKvGT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSKvGT</a> <a href="https://t.co/kDgECPSeso">https://t.co/kDgECPSeso</a> <a href="https://t.co/yp09HKKCSn">pic.twitter.com/yp09HKKCSn</a></p>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1663447960083132416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Fleming's praise for Jadeja</strong></h2>

<p>"They say there are no fairytales in sport but that was a pretty good one today," Fleming said, as he recalled Jadeja's topsy-turvy journey with CSK since IPL 2022.</p>

<p>"It's probably been a difficult 18 months where the captaincy was difficult. The injury was difficult. It took a bit of time for him to get out of the game and come reinvigorated in the Test game and then reintegrate into CSK.</p>

<p>"He plays a great role with the ball. But we've got so much firepower, that sometimes we use him lower down the order. But something had to give. And MS has been really supportive and proactive of getting him up there and today he repaid that faith," Fleming added.</p>

<p>With 13 runs required off the final over, Jadeja and Co were staring at defeat before he pulled off stunners on the final two balls. CSK needed 10 runs off the&nbsp;last two balls when Jadeja scored a six and a four to add another trophy to his illustrious cabinet.</p>

<p>"The six, in particular, off a ball that was very close to perfect, was defining," Fleming said.</p>

<p>"And then a good left-hander hitting through fine leg was a great way to finish it. I couldn't be more happy for him. Yeah, there has been some frustration at times, but he is a gun player. He's a No.1 ranked player and today he delivered,” the former New Zealand skipper said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/want-to-dedicate-this-win-to-one-of-the-special-members-of-the-team-ms-dhoni-jadeja-after-csks-5th-ipl-title-598217">Want to dedicate this win to one of the special members of the team MS Dhoni: Jadeja after CSK's 5th IPL title</a></p>

<h2><strong>CSK equal record tally</strong></h2>

<p>The win at the Narendra Modi Stadium for CSK saw them equal Mumbai Indians' tally of five IPL titles. They remain the only team to win the IPL in three different decades having won the titles in 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, and now in 2023. MS Dhoni is also the joint-most successful skipper in the history of the competition alongside Rohit Sharma with five titles while Ambati Rayudu also has six titles to equal the latter’s record.</p>

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Chennai Super Kings (CSK) head coach Stephen Fleming has praised the efforts of Ravindra Jadeja after he helped Chennai Super Kings (CSK) win their fifth Indian Premier League (IPL) title in the wee hours of Tuesday.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) head coach Stephen Fleming has praised the efforts of Ravindra Jadeja after he helped Chennai Super Kings (CSK) win their fifth Indian Premier League (IPL) title in the wee hours of Tuesday. Jadeja, who has been in and out of both team India and CSK, has endured a tough 18-month period, where he also relinquished his captaincy of the franchise. Coach Fleming though, was full of praise for him and insisted that the faith was repaid. 𝙒𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙙𝙚𝙙𝙞𝙘𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙏𝙞𝙩𝙡𝙚 𝙑𝙞𝙘𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙮 𝙩𝙤 𝙈𝙎 𝘿𝙝𝙤𝙣𝙞 💛 Men of the moment @imjadeja & @IamShivamDube recap #CSK's glorious win in the #TATAIPL 2023 #Final 👌🏻👌🏻 - By @ameyatilak Full Interview 🎥🔽 #CSKvGT https://t.co/kDgECPSeso pic.twitter.com/yp09HKKCSn — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) May 30, 2023 × Fleming's praise for Jadeja "They say there are no fairytales in sport but that was a pretty good one today," Fleming said, as he recalled Jadeja's topsy-turvy journey with CSK since IPL 2022. "It's probably been a difficult 18 months where the captaincy was difficult. The injury was difficult. It took a bit of time for him to get out of the game and come reinvigorated in the Test game and then reintegrate into CSK. "He plays a great role with the ball. But we've got so much firepower, that sometimes we use him lower down the order. But something had to give. And MS has been really supportive and proactive of getting him up there and today he repaid that faith," Fleming added. With 13 runs required off the final over, Jadeja and Co were staring at defeat before he pulled off stunners on the final two balls. CSK needed 10 runs off the last two balls when Jadeja scored a six and a four to add another trophy to his illustrious cabinet. "The six, in particular, off a ball that was very close to perfect, was defining," Fleming said. "And then a good left-hander hitting through fine leg was a great way to finish it. I couldn't be more happy for him. Yeah, there has been some frustration at times, but he is a gun player. He's a No.1 ranked player and today he delivered,” the former New Zealand skipper said. ALSO READ | Want to dedicate this win to one of the special members of the team MS Dhoni: Jadeja after CSK's 5th IPL title CSK equal record tally The win at the Narendra Modi Stadium for CSK saw them equal Mumbai Indians' tally of five IPL titles. They remain the only team to win the IPL in three different decades having won the titles in 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, and now in 2023. MS Dhoni is also the joint-most successful skipper in the history of the competition alongside Rohit Sharma with five titles while Ambati Rayudu also has six titles to equal the latter’s record. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

IPL 2023: Stephen Fleming lauds Ravindra Jadeja after match-winning knock, says 'today he repaid that faith'

MS Dhoni and the Chennai Super Kings have claimed a record-equaling fifth Indian Premier League title. Dhoni's legacy in the IPL is unmatched, but at 41 is it time for him to call time on his career and go out on top?

Dhoni and Chennai win fifth IPL title | WION Sports Extra

<p>The MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) won their fifth IPL title after an emphatic five-wicket win in the IPL 2023 final versus defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in the wee hours of Tuesday (May 30) in Ahmedabad. In a rain-marred summit clash, CSK needed 171 for a win in 15 overs after rain made its presence felt at the start of their 215-run chase. With ten needed off the last two deliveries, Ravindra Jadeja ended proceedings in style with a six and a four as Dhoni &amp; Co. equalled Mumbai Indians (MI) with the most titles in the cash-rich league.</p>

<p>Talking about CSK's memorable run, several players stood tall in their fifth title win. The likes of Ruturaj Gaikwad and Devon Conway led from the front with the bat -- with over 500 runs each -- whereas Ajinkya Rahane and Shivam Dube's revival was a surprise for many. Ravindra Jadeja, Dhoni's hitting and keeping skills along with sharpy captaincy, Maheesh Theekshana,&nbsp;Matheesha Pathirana's rise, etc. played a big role. Rahane, playing his first-ever season for the Yellow Army,&nbsp;&nbsp;was at his sublime best as the 34-year-old ended&nbsp;with&nbsp;326 at a strike rate of&nbsp;172.48 with two half-centuries in 14 games.</p>

<p>Rahane upped the ante in the powerplays and middle overs and his fresh approach stunned many. The ease with which he cleared the boundaries was pleasing to the eye. CSK's head coach Stephen Fleming revealed how the former India Test vice-captain was so impressive,&nbsp;with his free-flowing approach impressing many.</p>

<h2><strong>'He wasn't in our initial thoughts but the game versus MI...'</strong></h2>

<p>"My understanding is that we got rid of the tag of being the guy you bat around or bat through. I think that maybe hung over his (Rahane's) head a little bit too much and didn’t allow him to be the player that he can be. And once that tag was gone, when I turned up halfway through the pre-season training, I saw a guy who was in magnificent form," Fleming told PTI after IPL 2023's conclusion.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-one-can-match-ms-dhonis-legacy-in-ipl-ravi-shastri-lauds-csk-skipper-after-yellow-army-win-5th-title-598344">'No one can match MS Dhoni's legacy in IPL': Ravi Shastri lauds CSK skipper after Yellow Army win 5th title</a></strong></p>

<p>"He wasn't in our initial thoughts, but the game in Mumbai was really defining. It was one of our best wins in the tournament and he was the big catalyst behind it, so he cemented that No.3 spot. He has been unwavering the whole way through he's been nothing but positive, his nets have been positive," Fleming signed off.</p>


The MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) won their fifth IPL title after an emphatic five-wicket win in the IPL 2023 final versus defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in the wee hours of Tuesday (May 30) in Ahmedabad.

The MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) won their fifth IPL title after an emphatic five-wicket win in the IPL 2023 final versus defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in the wee hours of Tuesday (May 30) in Ahmedabad. In a rain-marred summit clash, CSK needed 171 for a win in 15 overs after rain made its presence felt at the start of their 215-run chase. With ten needed off the last two deliveries, Ravindra Jadeja ended proceedings in style with a six and a four as Dhoni & Co. equalled Mumbai Indians (MI) with the most titles in the cash-rich league. Talking about CSK's memorable run, several players stood tall in their fifth title win. The likes of Ruturaj Gaikwad and Devon Conway led from the front with the bat -- with over 500 runs each -- whereas Ajinkya Rahane and Shivam Dube's revival was a surprise for many. Ravindra Jadeja, Dhoni's hitting and keeping skills along with sharpy captaincy, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana's rise, etc. played a big role. Rahane, playing his first-ever season for the Yellow Army, was at his sublime best as the 34-year-old ended with 326 at a strike rate of 172.48 with two half-centuries in 14 games. Rahane upped the ante in the powerplays and middle overs and his fresh approach stunned many. The ease with which he cleared the boundaries was pleasing to the eye. CSK's head coach Stephen Fleming revealed how the former India Test vice-captain was so impressive, with his free-flowing approach impressing many. 'He wasn't in our initial thoughts but the game versus MI...' "My understanding is that we got rid of the tag of being the guy you bat around or bat through. I think that maybe hung over his (Rahane's) head a little bit too much and didn’t allow him to be the player that he can be. And once that tag was gone, when I turned up halfway through the pre-season training, I saw a guy who was in magnificent form," Fleming told PTI after IPL 2023's conclusion. Also Read: 'No one can match MS Dhoni's legacy in IPL': Ravi Shastri lauds CSK skipper after Yellow Army win 5th title "He wasn't in our initial thoughts, but the game in Mumbai was really defining. It was one of our best wins in the tournament and he was the big catalyst behind it, so he cemented that No.3 spot. He has been unwavering the whole way through he's been nothing but positive, his nets have been positive," Fleming signed off.

'We got rid of...': CSK coach Stephen Fleming on Ajinkya Rahane's magnificent run in IPL 2023

<p>Chennai Super Kings won their fifth Indian Premier League (IPL) title as they beat Gujarat Titans in the 2023 season finale by five wickets with a last-ball four. The final, which was played on the reserve day, provided all the entertainment it could and when CSK skipper MS Dhoni came to speak after the match, he offered a cheerful update on his future as well.</p>

<p>Speaking at the post match presentation ceremony, Dhoni said he'll return to action for one more season if his body allowed it as a gift for the fans who have loved him through and through.</p>

<p>"If you see circumstantially this is the best time for me to announce retirement. But the amount of love and affection I've been shown wherever I've been this year, the easy thing for me would be to say, 'Thank you very much'. But the tough thing for me is to work hard for another nine months and come back and play at least one more season of IPL. But a lot depends on the body, I have six-seven months to decide and it will be more like a gift from my side [to the fans]. It's not easy for me but the way they've shown their love and affection, that's something I need to do for them."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-shubman-gill-wins-orange-cap-with-890-runs-md-shami-claims-purple-cap-with-28-wickets-598016">Shubman Gill wins Orange Cap with 890 runs, Md Shami clinches Purple Cap with 28 wickets</a></p>

<p>Dhoni, however, acknowledged the fact that he's in last phase of his career and he got emotional when the fans shouted his name every time he came on to bat on whichever ground he played at.</p>

<p>"You do get emotional for a simple fact that it's the last part of my career and I think it started over here when I was playing the first game [of IPL 2023]. I just walked out and the full house was chanting my name. My eyes filled with [tears] and I just stood there in the dugout for a while, and I took my time and I realised that I want to enjoy it and not take the pressure. I think it was the same thing in Chennai, when I played my last game there, but it will be good to come back and play whatever I can," said the skipper.</p>

<p>The stalwart although had an abysmal outing with the bat in the final as he got out for a first-ball duck. In total, Dhoni scored 104 run in the season in 12 times he batted during 16 games on 57 ball at a strike rate of 182. While the CSK skipper batted few balls only, the crowd did enjoy every single one of his 10 sixes this season.&nbsp;</p>

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Chennai Super Kings won their fifth Indian Premier League (IPL) title as they beat Gujarat Titans in the 2023 season finale by five wickets with a last-ball four.

Chennai Super Kings won their fifth Indian Premier League (IPL) title as they beat Gujarat Titans in the 2023 season finale by five wickets with a last-ball four. The final, which was played on the reserve day, provided all the entertainment it could and when CSK skipper MS Dhoni came to speak after the match, he offered a cheerful update on his future as well. Speaking at the post match presentation ceremony, Dhoni said he'll return to action for one more season if his body allowed it as a gift for the fans who have loved him through and through. "If you see circumstantially this is the best time for me to announce retirement. But the amount of love and affection I've been shown wherever I've been this year, the easy thing for me would be to say, 'Thank you very much'. But the tough thing for me is to work hard for another nine months and come back and play at least one more season of IPL. But a lot depends on the body, I have six-seven months to decide and it will be more like a gift from my side [to the fans]. It's not easy for me but the way they've shown their love and affection, that's something I need to do for them." Also Read: Shubman Gill wins Orange Cap with 890 runs, Md Shami clinches Purple Cap with 28 wickets Dhoni, however, acknowledged the fact that he's in last phase of his career and he got emotional when the fans shouted his name every time he came on to bat on whichever ground he played at. "You do get emotional for a simple fact that it's the last part of my career and I think it started over here when I was playing the first game [of IPL 2023]. I just walked out and the full house was chanting my name. My eyes filled with [tears] and I just stood there in the dugout for a while, and I took my time and I realised that I want to enjoy it and not take the pressure. I think it was the same thing in Chennai, when I played my last game there, but it will be good to come back and play whatever I can," said the skipper. The stalwart although had an abysmal outing with the bat in the final as he got out for a first-ball duck. In total, Dhoni scored 104 run in the season in 12 times he batted during 16 games on 57 ball at a strike rate of 182. While the CSK skipper batted few balls only, the crowd did enjoy every single one of his 10 sixes this season. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

IPL 2023: CSK skipper MS Dhoni 'vows' return for another season after winning fifth title

<p>Dramatic scenes unfolded in Ahmedabad during the last over of this season’s Indian Premier League (IPL) final between Chennai Super Kings and Gujarat Titans. With four runs needed to win off the last delivery, Ravindra Jadeja guided Mohit Sharma’s low full toss between short fine leg and the wicketkeeper for a boundary. Following the shot, Chennai cricketers broke into a euphoric celebration at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The scene, however, was no less exhilarated in the commentary box. Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen shared a video which perfectly encapsulated the mood of his fellow commentators, following Jadeja’s match-winning stroke. Sharing the video on Twitter, Pietersen wrote, “A privilege to be there at the end with Ravi Shastri and Ian Bishop. Two great callers of the game! Congrats CSK and thank you to every single person who was a part of this season's IPL!”</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A privilege to be there at the end with <a href="https://twitter.com/RaviShastriOfc?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RaviShastriOfc</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/irbishi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@irbishi</a>. Two great callers of the game! 🙏🏽<br />
Congrats CSK &amp; thank you to every single person who was a part of this seasons IPL! 👊🏽 <a href="https://t.co/RW1DHRnmo0">pic.twitter.com/RW1DHRnmo0</a></p>
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1663297699737731072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Ravi Shastri stood up to get a clear sense of the outcome of the final ball, his co-commentator Ian Bishop was heard screaming in sheer ecstasy, “Never bet against MS Dhoni and CSK.” Kevin Pietersen, on the other hand, seemed utterly shell-shocked by the manner in which Chennai Super Kings won their fifth IPL title.</p>

<p>The clip went viral in no time garnering more than 4.6 lakh views on Twitter.</p>

<h2><strong>Fans salute Dhoni and his team&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>One user, quite aptly, summed up Kevin Pietersen’s reaction by commenting, “You looked shocked and sad, KP.”</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">you looked shocked and sad kp 😂😒</p>
— Neeche Se Topper (@NeecheSeTopper) <a href="https://twitter.com/NeecheSeTopper/status/1663298811178131457?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Echoing a similar sentiment, another social media user tweeted, “Looks like you are in utter disbelief and surprise at looking at what just happened.”</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Looks like you are in utter disbelief and surprise at looking what just happened 😅</p>
— Prasad Karwa (@PrasadKarwa) <a href="https://twitter.com/PrasadKarwa/status/1663368349815013377?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>This person was totally in awe of Kevin Pietersen’s expression.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Just loved your expression ♥</p>
— Aashir Vali Vahidy (@aashirvahidy) <a href="https://twitter.com/aashirvahidy/status/1663304500180918272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Praising Kevin Pietersen’s commentary skills, one Twitter user wrote, “You are also a great caller of the game, KP. Your presence in the commentary box makes the experience even more special and delightful. I hope and pray that you keep entertaining us like this.”</p>

<h2><strong>Chennai Super Kings’ nail-biting finish</strong></h2>

<p>Coming back to on-field developments, Sai Sudarshan’s stunning knock of 47-ball 96 powered Gujarat Titans to a mammoth total of 214. Chennai Super Kings pacer Matheesha Pathirana emerged as his side’s best bowler after claiming two wickets in the final encounter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The target, however, had to be revised due to rain-enforced interruption and Chennai Super Kings were asked to chase 171 runs in 15 overs. Chennai all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja’s late cameo, ultimately, guided MS Dhoni’s men to a five-wicket triumph.</p>


Dramatic scenes unfolded in Ahmedabad during the last over of this season’s Indian Premier League (IPL) final between Chennai Super Kings and Gujarat Titans. With four runs needed to win off the last delivery, Ravindra Jadeja guided Mohit Sharma’s low full toss between short fine leg and the wicketkeeper for a boundary.

Dramatic scenes unfolded in Ahmedabad during the last over of this season’s Indian Premier League (IPL) final between Chennai Super Kings and Gujarat Titans. With four runs needed to win off the last delivery, Ravindra Jadeja guided Mohit Sharma’s low full toss between short fine leg and the wicketkeeper for a boundary. Following the shot, Chennai cricketers broke into a euphoric celebration at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The scene, however, was no less exhilarated in the commentary box. Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen shared a video which perfectly encapsulated the mood of his fellow commentators, following Jadeja’s match-winning stroke. Sharing the video on Twitter, Pietersen wrote, “A privilege to be there at the end with Ravi Shastri and Ian Bishop. Two great callers of the game! Congrats CSK and thank you to every single person who was a part of this season's IPL!” A privilege to be there at the end with @RaviShastriOfc & @irbishi. Two great callers of the game! 🙏🏽 Congrats CSK & thank you to every single person who was a part of this seasons IPL! 👊🏽 pic.twitter.com/RW1DHRnmo0 — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) May 29, 2023 × While Ravi Shastri stood up to get a clear sense of the outcome of the final ball, his co-commentator Ian Bishop was heard screaming in sheer ecstasy, “Never bet against MS Dhoni and CSK.” Kevin Pietersen, on the other hand, seemed utterly shell-shocked by the manner in which Chennai Super Kings won their fifth IPL title. The clip went viral in no time garnering more than 4.6 lakh views on Twitter. Fans salute Dhoni and his team One user, quite aptly, summed up Kevin Pietersen’s reaction by commenting, “You looked shocked and sad, KP.” you looked shocked and sad kp 😂😒 — Neeche Se Topper (@NeecheSeTopper) May 29, 2023 × Echoing a similar sentiment, another social media user tweeted, “Looks like you are in utter disbelief and surprise at looking at what just happened.” Looks like you are in utter disbelief and surprise at looking what just happened 😅 — Prasad Karwa (@PrasadKarwa) May 30, 2023 × This person was totally in awe of Kevin Pietersen’s expression. Just loved your expression ♥ — Aashir Vali Vahidy (@aashirvahidy) May 29, 2023 × Praising Kevin Pietersen’s commentary skills, one Twitter user wrote, “You are also a great caller of the game, KP. Your presence in the commentary box makes the experience even more special and delightful. I hope and pray that you keep entertaining us like this.” Chennai Super Kings’ nail-biting finish Coming back to on-field developments, Sai Sudarshan’s stunning knock of 47-ball 96 powered Gujarat Titans to a mammoth total of 214. Chennai Super Kings pacer Matheesha Pathirana emerged as his side’s best bowler after claiming two wickets in the final encounter. The target, however, had to be revised due to rain-enforced interruption and Chennai Super Kings were asked to chase 171 runs in 15 overs. Chennai all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja’s late cameo, ultimately, guided MS Dhoni’s men to a five-wicket triumph.

Incredible scenes in commentary box as Ravindra Jadeja hits winning runs

<p>In the wee hours of Tuesday (May 30),&nbsp;Chennai Super Kings (CSK) edged past defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) by five wickets in IPL 2023 final. Chasing 171 in 15 overs in a rain-marred contest, CSK needed 13 off six balls before the equation became 10 off the last two deliveries. Gujarat's Mohit Sharma was exceptional at the death but Ravindra Jadeja smashed two boundaries to take his side to an emphatic five-wicket win and a fifth IPL title.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier in the contest, MS Dhoni-led Chennai opted to bowl first as the home side Gujarat posted a mammoth 214 for 4 riding on Shubman Gill's 39, Wriddhiman Saha's 54 (39) and Sai Sudharsan's 47-ball 96. At the start of CSK's run-chase, rain made its presence felt. CSK was given a revised target, 171 in 15 overs, and they completed the run-chase on the final ball courtesy of Ruturaj Gaikwad's 16-ball 26, Devon Conway's 25-ball 47, Ajinkya Rahane's 13-ball 27, Ambati Rayudu's 9-ball 18, Shivam Dube's 32* and Jadeja's 6-ball unbeaten 15.</p>

<p>After the game, former India head coach Ravi Shastri lauded Dhoni for his inspiring leadership all throughout IPL 2023, sharp keeping and big-hitting skills.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'No one can match the kind of legacy MS Dhoni is going to leave behind in IPL'</strong></h2>

<p>"250 IPL matches is a tribute to MS Dhoni's fitness. No one can match the kind of legacy Dhoni is going to leave behind in this tournament. He is called Thala by the whole of Chennai and Tamil Nadu. The love and adulation a guy from Jharkhand receives down south from fans of CSK is testimony to the greatness of this cricketer," Shastri told&nbsp;<i>Star Sports.</i></p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/want-to-dedicate-this-win-to-one-of-the-special-members-of-the-team-ms-dhoni-jadeja-after-csks-5th-ipl-title-598217">Want to dedicate this win to one of the special members of the team MS Dhoni: Jadeja after CSK's 5th IPL title</a></strong></p>

<p>On the other hand, Dhoni's former India and CSK colleague Harbhajan Singh said,&nbsp;"This is the biggest news for fans. MS Dhoni will come back next year and he will return with even better fitness. Fans will get to witness their beloved Thala don that yellow jersey again. The expectations are going to be high from CSK next year and this team knows pretty well how to handle that pressure of expectations."</p>

<p>Dhoni ended with 104 balls in 57 balls in IPL 2023, striking at&nbsp;182.45, along with ten dismissals in IPL 2023. At the post-match presentation, Dhoni opined on his IPL future and said, "Thank you very much", but the tough thing for me is to work hard for another 9 months and come back and play at least 1 more season of IPL. A lot depends on the body, I have 6-7 months to decide. It will be more like a gift from my side, it's not easy for me but that's a gift. The way they've shown their love and affection, I think that's something I need to do for them."</p>


In the wee hours of Tuesday (May 30), Chennai Super Kings (CSK) edged past defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) by five wickets in IPL 2023 final. Chasing 171 in 15 overs in a rain-marred contest, CSK needed 13 off six balls before the equation became 10 off the last two deliveries.

In the wee hours of Tuesday (May 30), Chennai Super Kings (CSK) edged past defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) by five wickets in IPL 2023 final. Chasing 171 in 15 overs in a rain-marred contest, CSK needed 13 off six balls before the equation became 10 off the last two deliveries. Gujarat's Mohit Sharma was exceptional at the death but Ravindra Jadeja smashed two boundaries to take his side to an emphatic five-wicket win and a fifth IPL title. Earlier in the contest, MS Dhoni-led Chennai opted to bowl first as the home side Gujarat posted a mammoth 214 for 4 riding on Shubman Gill's 39, Wriddhiman Saha's 54 (39) and Sai Sudharsan's 47-ball 96. At the start of CSK's run-chase, rain made its presence felt. CSK was given a revised target, 171 in 15 overs, and they completed the run-chase on the final ball courtesy of Ruturaj Gaikwad's 16-ball 26, Devon Conway's 25-ball 47, Ajinkya Rahane's 13-ball 27, Ambati Rayudu's 9-ball 18, Shivam Dube's 32* and Jadeja's 6-ball unbeaten 15. After the game, former India head coach Ravi Shastri lauded Dhoni for his inspiring leadership all throughout IPL 2023, sharp keeping and big-hitting skills. 'No one can match the kind of legacy MS Dhoni is going to leave behind in IPL' "250 IPL matches is a tribute to MS Dhoni's fitness. No one can match the kind of legacy Dhoni is going to leave behind in this tournament. He is called Thala by the whole of Chennai and Tamil Nadu. The love and adulation a guy from Jharkhand receives down south from fans of CSK is testimony to the greatness of this cricketer," Shastri told Star Sports. Also Read: Want to dedicate this win to one of the special members of the team MS Dhoni: Jadeja after CSK's 5th IPL title On the other hand, Dhoni's former India and CSK colleague Harbhajan Singh said, "This is the biggest news for fans. MS Dhoni will come back next year and he will return with even better fitness. Fans will get to witness their beloved Thala don that yellow jersey again. The expectations are going to be high from CSK next year and this team knows pretty well how to handle that pressure of expectations." Dhoni ended with 104 balls in 57 balls in IPL 2023, striking at 182.45, along with ten dismissals in IPL 2023. At the post-match presentation, Dhoni opined on his IPL future and said, "Thank you very much", but the tough thing for me is to work hard for another 9 months and come back and play at least 1 more season of IPL. A lot depends on the body, I have 6-7 months to decide. It will be more like a gift from my side, it's not easy for me but that's a gift. The way they've shown their love and affection, I think that's something I need to do for them."

'No one can match MS Dhoni's legacy in IPL': Ravi Shastri lauds CSK skipper after Yellow Army win 5th title

<p>Dramatic scenes unfolded in Ahmedabad during the last over of this season’s Indian Premier League (IPL) final between Chennai Super Kings and Gujarat Titans. With four runs needed to win off the last delivery, Ravindra Jadeja guided Mohit Sharma’s low full toss between short fine leg and the wicketkeeper for a boundary. Following the shot, Chennai cricketers broke into a euphoric celebration at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The scene, however, was no less exhilarating in the commentary box. Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen shared a video which perfectly encapsulated the mood of his fellow commentators, following Jadeja’s match-winning stroke. Sharing the video on Twitter, Pietersen wrote, “A privilege to be there at the end with Ravi Shastri and Ian Bishop. Two great callers of the game! Congrats CSK and thank you to every single person who was a part of this season's IPL!”</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A privilege to be there at the end with <a href="https://twitter.com/RaviShastriOfc?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RaviShastriOfc</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/irbishi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@irbishi</a>. Two great callers of the game! 🙏🏽<br />
Congrats CSK &amp; thank you to every single person who was a part of this seasons IPL! 👊🏽 <a href="https://t.co/RW1DHRnmo0">pic.twitter.com/RW1DHRnmo0</a></p>
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1663297699737731072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Ravi Shastri stood up to get a clear sense of the outcome of the final ball, his co-commentator Ian Bishop was heard screaming in sheer ecstasy, “Never bet against MS Dhoni and CSK.” Kevin Pietersen, on the other hand, seemed utterly shell-shocked by the manner in which Chennai Super Kings won their fifth IPL title.</p>

<p><br />
The clip went viral in no time garnering more than 4.6 lakh views on Twitter.</p>

<p>Fans salute Dhoni and his team&nbsp;</p>

<p>One user, quite aptly, summed up Kevin Pietersen’s reaction by commenting, “You looked shocked and sad, KP.”</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">you looked shocked and sad kp 😂😒</p>
— Neeche Se Topper (@NeecheSeTopper) <a href="https://twitter.com/NeecheSeTopper/status/1663298811178131457?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Echoing a similar sentiment, another social media user tweeted, “Looks like you are in utter disbelief and surprise at looking at what just happened.”</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Looks like you are in utter disbelief and surprise at looking what just happened 😅</p>
— Prasad Karwa (@PrasadKarwa) <a href="https://twitter.com/PrasadKarwa/status/1663368349815013377?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>This person was totally in awe of Kevin Pietersen’s expression.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Just loved your expression ♥</p>
— Aashir Vali Vahidy (@aashirvahidy) <a href="https://twitter.com/aashirvahidy/status/1663304500180918272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Praising Kevin Pietersen’s commentary skills, one Twitter user wrote, “You are also a great caller of the game, KP. Your presence in the commentary box makes the experience even more special and delightful. I hope and pray that you keep entertaining us like this.”</p>

<p>Chennai Super Kings’nail-biting finish</p>

<p>Coming back to on-field developments, Sai Sudharsan’s stunning knock of 47-ball 96 powered Gujarat Titans to a mammoth total of 214. Chennai Super Kings pacer Matheesha Pathirana emerged as his side’s best bowler after claiming two wickets in the final encounter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The target, however, had to be revised due to rain-enforced interruption and Chennai Super Kings were asked to chase 171 runs in 15 overs. Chennai all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja’s late cameo, ultimately, guided MS Dhoni’s men to a five-wicket triumph.</p>


Dramatic scenes unfolded in Ahmedabad during the last over of this season’s Indian Premier League (IPL) final between Chennai Super Kings and Gujarat Titans. With four runs needed to win off the last delivery, Ravindra Jadeja guided Mohit Sharma’s low full toss between short fine leg and the wicketkeeper for a boundary. Following the shot, Chennai cricketers broke into a euphoric celebration at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The scene, however, was no less exhilarating in the commentary box. Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen shared a video which perfectly encapsulated the mood of his fellow commentators, following Jadeja’s match-winning stroke. Sharing the video on Twitter, Pietersen wrote, “A privilege to be there at the end with Ravi Shastri and Ian Bishop. Two great callers of the game! Congrats CSK and thank you to every single person who was a part of this season's IPL!” A privilege to be there at the end with @RaviShastriOfc & @irbishi. Two great callers of the game! 🙏🏽 Congrats CSK & thank you to every single person who was a part of this seasons IPL! 👊🏽 pic.twitter.com/RW1DHRnmo0 — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) May 29, 2023 × While Ravi Shastri stood up to get a clear sense of the outcome of the final ball, his co-commentator Ian Bishop was heard screaming in sheer ecstasy, “Never bet against MS Dhoni and CSK.” Kevin Pietersen, on the other hand, seemed utterly shell-shocked by the manner in which Chennai Super Kings won their fifth IPL title. The clip went viral in no time garnering more than 4.6 lakh views on Twitter. Fans salute Dhoni and his team One user, quite aptly, summed up Kevin Pietersen’s reaction by commenting, “You looked shocked and sad, KP.” you looked shocked and sad kp 😂😒 — Neeche Se Topper (@NeecheSeTopper) May 29, 2023 × Echoing a similar sentiment, another social media user tweeted, “Looks like you are in utter disbelief and surprise at looking at what just happened.” Looks like you are in utter disbelief and surprise at looking what just happened 😅 — Prasad Karwa (@PrasadKarwa) May 30, 2023 × This person was totally in awe of Kevin Pietersen’s expression. Just loved your expression ♥ — Aashir Vali Vahidy (@aashirvahidy) May 29, 2023 × Praising Kevin Pietersen’s commentary skills, one Twitter user wrote, “You are also a great caller of the game, KP. Your presence in the commentary box makes the experience even more special and delightful. I hope and pray that you keep entertaining us like this.” Chennai Super Kings’nail-biting finish Coming back to on-field developments, Sai Sudharsan’s stunning knock of 47-ball 96 powered Gujarat Titans to a mammoth total of 214. Chennai Super Kings pacer Matheesha Pathirana emerged as his side’s best bowler after claiming two wickets in the final encounter. The target, however, had to be revised due to rain-enforced interruption and Chennai Super Kings were asked to chase 171 runs in 15 overs. Chennai all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja’s late cameo, ultimately, guided MS Dhoni’s men to a five-wicket triumph.

IPL Final: Incredible scenes in commentary box as Ravindra Jadeja hits winning runs

<p>The IPL 2023 final got pushed to the reserve day, that is Monday evening (May 29), after persistent rain on Sunday (May 28). MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings (CSK) opted to bowl first and the defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) rode on Wriddhiman Saha's 39-ball 54 and Sai Sudharsan's 47-ball 96 to post a mammoth 214/4 in 20 overs. CSK's chase started with a lengthy rain break which led to a revised target, 171 off 15 overs. The Yellow Army rode on quickfire knocks from Ruturaj Gaikwad, Devon Conway, Ajinkya Rahane, Shivam Dube, Ambati Rayudu and Ravindra Jadeja's last-over heroics to win their fifth IPL title.</p>

<p>With 13 needed off the last six deliveries, GT's Mohit Sharma -- their best bowler who ended with 3 for 36 -- made the equation tougher for Chennai. On the last two deliveries, CSK needed ten for a win when Jadeja showed his worth, hitting a six and a four to help his side lift a memorable fifth IPL title -- joint-most along with Mumbai Indians (MI). After CSK's emphatic five-wicket win, Jadeja said he 'wants to dedicate this victory to MS Dhoni'.</p>

<h2><strong>'Want to dedicate this win to one of the special members of our team - MS Dhoni'</strong></h2>

<p>At the post-match presentation, Jadeja said, "Feeling amazing winning fifth title in front of my home crowd. They've come in big numbers to support CSK. This crowd has been amazing. They were waiting for the rain to stop till late at night. Want to say big congratulations to CSK fans. Want to dedicate this win to one of the special members of our team - MS Dhoni."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Spirits UPL7️⃣FT8️⃣D 🙌🫂<a href="https://t.co/dMyYzxcx6H">pic.twitter.com/dMyYzxcx6H</a></p>
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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-final-ms-dhonis-csk-beat-defenders-gt-on-last-ball-of-rain-marred-contest-to-win-fifth-title-598094">IPL 2023 Final: MS Dhoni's CSK beat defenders GT on last ball of rain-marred contest to win fifth title</a></strong></p>

<p>On his thinking when the equation read ten off two balls, CSK all-rounder added, "I was just thinking that I need to swing hard no matter what. Yeah, anything can happen. I was looking to hit straight because Mohit can bowl slower ones. Want to say congratulations to each and every fan of CSK. Just keep cheering the way you've been cheering."</p>

<p>Jadeja ended a superb run in IPL 2023 with 190 runs at 142.85 along with 20 wickets (second-most by a CSK player). He will now shift his focus to India's upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final where they take on Australia on June 07. Meanwhile, Dhoni claimed that he will try to play another season, as a gift for his ardent fans, but will see how his body responds close to IPL 2024. Dhoni has now won five IPL titles (all as CSK captain).</p>


The IPL 2023 final got pushed to the reserve day, that is Monday evening (May 29), after persistent rain on Sunday (May 28). MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings (CSK) opted to bowl first and the defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) rode on Wriddhiman Saha's 39-ball 54 and Sai Sudharsan's 47-ball 96 to post a mammoth 214/4 in 20 overs.

The IPL 2023 final got pushed to the reserve day, that is Monday evening (May 29), after persistent rain on Sunday (May 28). MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings (CSK) opted to bowl first and the defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) rode on Wriddhiman Saha's 39-ball 54 and Sai Sudharsan's 47-ball 96 to post a mammoth 214/4 in 20 overs. CSK's chase started with a lengthy rain break which led to a revised target, 171 off 15 overs. The Yellow Army rode on quickfire knocks from Ruturaj Gaikwad, Devon Conway, Ajinkya Rahane, Shivam Dube, Ambati Rayudu and Ravindra Jadeja's last-over heroics to win their fifth IPL title. With 13 needed off the last six deliveries, GT's Mohit Sharma -- their best bowler who ended with 3 for 36 -- made the equation tougher for Chennai. On the last two deliveries, CSK needed ten for a win when Jadeja showed his worth, hitting a six and a four to help his side lift a memorable fifth IPL title -- joint-most along with Mumbai Indians (MI). After CSK's emphatic five-wicket win, Jadeja said he 'wants to dedicate this victory to MS Dhoni'. 'Want to dedicate this win to one of the special members of our team - MS Dhoni' At the post-match presentation, Jadeja said, "Feeling amazing winning fifth title in front of my home crowd. They've come in big numbers to support CSK. This crowd has been amazing. They were waiting for the rain to stop till late at night. Want to say big congratulations to CSK fans. Want to dedicate this win to one of the special members of our team - MS Dhoni." Spirits UPL7️⃣FT8️⃣D 🙌🫂pic.twitter.com/dMyYzxcx6H — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) May 29, 2023 × Also Read: IPL 2023 Final: MS Dhoni's CSK beat defenders GT on last ball of rain-marred contest to win fifth title On his thinking when the equation read ten off two balls, CSK all-rounder added, "I was just thinking that I need to swing hard no matter what. Yeah, anything can happen. I was looking to hit straight because Mohit can bowl slower ones. Want to say congratulations to each and every fan of CSK. Just keep cheering the way you've been cheering." Jadeja ended a superb run in IPL 2023 with 190 runs at 142.85 along with 20 wickets (second-most by a CSK player). He will now shift his focus to India's upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final where they take on Australia on June 07. Meanwhile, Dhoni claimed that he will try to play another season, as a gift for his ardent fans, but will see how his body responds close to IPL 2024. Dhoni has now won five IPL titles (all as CSK captain).

Want to dedicate this win to a special member of the team: Jadeja after CSK's 5th IPL title

<p>On Sunday (May 28), IPL 2023 final got washed out and the game will now be played on the reserve day, on Monday (May 29). Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Gujarat Titans (GT) will lock horns in the summit clash at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad in what can be MS Dhoni's last IPL match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dhoni, who likes to keep his cards close to his chest, has not said anything about his IPL future. After taking CSK to their tenth IPL final, Dhoni opened up on his IPL future and revealed he is not thinking about it at the moment and will take a call before the next auction. At 41, he has done reasonably well in IPL 2023 -- leading from the front, keeping wickets well and hitting the big sixes -- but he has played this&nbsp;season with a knee injury.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thus, IPL 2023 finale is expected to be the former Indian captain's last appearance. On Sunday, when CSK versus GT finale was delayed due to persistent rain, Kapil Dev -- India's 1983 World Cup-winning skipper -- asked Dhoni's ardent fans to let go of him.</p>

<h2><strong>'What more do we want from him? Do we want him to play all his life?'</strong></h2>

<p>"He has been playing IPL for 15 years. Why is it that we are only talking about Dhoni? He has done his work. What more do we want from him? Do we want him to play all his life? That is not going to happen. We should instead be thankful that he played for 15 years. Whether he plays next year or not, before departing he has played impressively. He may not have scored big runs but he led the team to the final and it shows what is the importance of a skipper in the game of cricket,"&nbsp;Kapil Dev told ABP News.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-csk-coachs-cryptic-tweet-dhonis-imminent-retirement-would-msd-replace-fleming-after-this-season-597753">IPL 2023: CSK coach's cryptic tweet. Dhoni's imminent retirement. Would MSD replace Fleming after this season?</a></strong></p>

<p>After CSK's 15-run win over defending champions GT, Dhoni told Harsha Bhogle, "I don't know. I have 8-9 months to decide. The small auction will be around December. So why take that headache right now? I have ample time to decide. But, I will always be there for CSK, whether it's in the playing form or sitting somewhere outside."</p>

<p>Dhoni will play his 250th IPL match during this year's final on Monday evening. Will this be his last appearance in the cash-rich league? Only time will tell...</p>

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On Sunday (May 28), IPL 2023 final got washed out and the game will now be played on the reserve day, on Monday (May 29). Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Gujarat Titans (GT) will lock horns in the summit clash at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad in what can be MS Dhoni's last IPL match.

On Sunday (May 28), IPL 2023 final got washed out and the game will now be played on the reserve day, on Monday (May 29). Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Gujarat Titans (GT) will lock horns in the summit clash at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad in what can be MS Dhoni's last IPL match. Dhoni, who likes to keep his cards close to his chest, has not said anything about his IPL future. After taking CSK to their tenth IPL final, Dhoni opened up on his IPL future and revealed he is not thinking about it at the moment and will take a call before the next auction. At 41, he has done reasonably well in IPL 2023 -- leading from the front, keeping wickets well and hitting the big sixes -- but he has played this season with a knee injury. Thus, IPL 2023 finale is expected to be the former Indian captain's last appearance. On Sunday, when CSK versus GT finale was delayed due to persistent rain, Kapil Dev -- India's 1983 World Cup-winning skipper -- asked Dhoni's ardent fans to let go of him. 'What more do we want from him? Do we want him to play all his life?' "He has been playing IPL for 15 years. Why is it that we are only talking about Dhoni? He has done his work. What more do we want from him? Do we want him to play all his life? That is not going to happen. We should instead be thankful that he played for 15 years. Whether he plays next year or not, before departing he has played impressively. He may not have scored big runs but he led the team to the final and it shows what is the importance of a skipper in the game of cricket," Kapil Dev told ABP News. Also Read: IPL 2023: CSK coach's cryptic tweet. Dhoni's imminent retirement. Would MSD replace Fleming after this season? After CSK's 15-run win over defending champions GT, Dhoni told Harsha Bhogle, "I don't know. I have 8-9 months to decide. The small auction will be around December. So why take that headache right now? I have ample time to decide. But, I will always be there for CSK, whether it's in the playing form or sitting somewhere outside." Dhoni will play his 250th IPL match during this year's final on Monday evening. Will this be his last appearance in the cash-rich league? Only time will tell... WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

IPL 2023 final: Kapil Dev opines on CSK captain MS Dhoni's future, says 'he can't play all life'

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<p>A star batter for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI) in the past, Hyderabad’s Ambati Rayudu announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL) just before the start of the IPL 2023 finale between CSK and Gujarat Titans. As both teams gear up to fight for the coveted IPL trophy at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Rayudu, via Twitter, made this announcement.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">2 great teams mi nd csk,204 matches,14 seasons,11 playoffs,8 finals,5 trophies.hopefully 6th tonight. It’s been quite a journey.I have decided that tonight’s final is going to be my last game in the Ipl.i truly hav enjoyed playing this great tournament.Thank u all. No u turn 😂🙏</p>
— ATR (@RayuduAmbati) <a href="https://twitter.com/RayuduAmbati/status/1662793393930371073?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Having made his IPL debut 13 years back in 2010 for Mumbai Indians as a wicketkeeper-batter, Rayudu shined for Sachin Tendulkar-led side and later clinched his maiden title with them in 2013. While his run in the MI camp was as successful as any, Rayudu switching to Chennai Super Kings a few years later brought him laurels too.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/revealed-ipl-2023-prize-money-heres-how-much-the-winner-and-runners-up-will-take-home-597510">Revealed - IPL 2023 Prize Money: Here's how much the winner and runners-up will take home</a></p>

<p>Playing&nbsp;over 200 IPL matches, an achievement he accomplished during this season only, Rayudu has amassed 4329 runs at an average of 28.29 and a strike rate of 127.29. He also has an IPL hundred to his name and was CSK’s go-to-batter for several seasons earlier.</p>

<p>Be it playing at the top of the order or being asked to bat in the middle overs, Rayudu always stood up to the challenge and delivered for his team. A live wire on the field, Rayudu is known to have a steady pair of hands and is decent with his out fielding.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Though he had always remained among runs, Rayudu’s best run came during the 2018 season when he scored 602 runs from 16 matches and helped CSK lift the title beating SRH in the finals.</p>

<h2>A vital cog in the wheel&nbsp;for CSK</h2>

<p>Following announcing his retirement ahead of the last season, Rayudu made a U-turn and returned to playing for CSK after having a brief chat with captain MS Dhoni. Though his side remained among the bottom two in IPL 2022, CSK brought its A-game this time and is now playing the record 10th final in their 14-season history.</p>

<p>In IPL 2023, Rayudu didn’t leave an impact as he would have liked but always remained in the scheme of things for Dhoni's side during league games. An experienced customer, Rayudu knows what it takes to deliver in the big final, and despite scoring a mere 139 runs in 15 matches, he can step up and help CSK win their fifth IPL title.</p>

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A star batter for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI) in the past, Hyderabad’s Ambati Rayudu announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL) just before the start of the IPL 2023 finale between CSK and Gujarat Titans.

A star batter for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI) in the past, Hyderabad’s Ambati Rayudu announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL) just before the start of the IPL 2023 finale between CSK and Gujarat Titans. As both teams gear up to fight for the coveted IPL trophy at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Rayudu, via Twitter, made this announcement. 2 great teams mi nd csk,204 matches,14 seasons,11 playoffs,8 finals,5 trophies.hopefully 6th tonight. It’s been quite a journey.I have decided that tonight’s final is going to be my last game in the Ipl.i truly hav enjoyed playing this great tournament.Thank u all. No u turn 😂🙏 — ATR (@RayuduAmbati) May 28, 2023 × Having made his IPL debut 13 years back in 2010 for Mumbai Indians as a wicketkeeper-batter, Rayudu shined for Sachin Tendulkar-led side and later clinched his maiden title with them in 2013. While his run in the MI camp was as successful as any, Rayudu switching to Chennai Super Kings a few years later brought him laurels too. ALSO READ: Revealed - IPL 2023 Prize Money: Here's how much the winner and runners-up will take home Playing over 200 IPL matches, an achievement he accomplished during this season only, Rayudu has amassed 4329 runs at an average of 28.29 and a strike rate of 127.29. He also has an IPL hundred to his name and was CSK’s go-to-batter for several seasons earlier. Be it playing at the top of the order or being asked to bat in the middle overs, Rayudu always stood up to the challenge and delivered for his team. A live wire on the field, Rayudu is known to have a steady pair of hands and is decent with his out fielding. Though he had always remained among runs, Rayudu’s best run came during the 2018 season when he scored 602 runs from 16 matches and helped CSK lift the title beating SRH in the finals. A vital cog in the wheel for CSK Following announcing his retirement ahead of the last season, Rayudu made a U-turn and returned to playing for CSK after having a brief chat with captain MS Dhoni. Though his side remained among the bottom two in IPL 2022, CSK brought its A-game this time and is now playing the record 10th final in their 14-season history. In IPL 2023, Rayudu didn’t leave an impact as he would have liked but always remained in the scheme of things for Dhoni's side during league games. An experienced customer, Rayudu knows what it takes to deliver in the big final, and despite scoring a mere 139 runs in 15 matches, he can step up and help CSK win their fifth IPL title. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Veteran batter Ambati Rayudu announces IPL retirement ahead of CSK vs GT final, confirms 'no U-turn'

<p>MS Dhoni is one of the legends of the game. Despite retiring from international cricket in August 2020, he remains one of the superstars of modern-day cricket and a huge name in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Dhoni's craze has been immense in the IPL over the years. In this season, his presence has led to fans flocking in large numbers to witness him play in what is likely his last IPL edition.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In&nbsp;IPL 2023, Dhoni has led from the front and taken the four-time winners Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to another final in the cash-rich league (Chennai's tenth overall). He has marshalled his troops brilliantly and also come up with&nbsp;small yet impactful knocks down the order. So far, he has 104 runs in 56 balls at a strike rate of 185.71.</p>

<p>Speaking of Dhoni, IPL 2023 final will be&nbsp;his 11th appearance in an IPL summit clash; the most by any player. He has won the IPL on four occasions, all as a captain (for CSK). Ahead of CSK's face-off versus Gujarat Titans (GT), in Ahmedabad on Sunday evening (May 28), <strong>here's a look at all the opposition skippers Captain Cool Dhoni&nbsp;faced in&nbsp;nine IPL finals:</strong></p>

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td><strong>Season</strong></td>
			<td><strong>Opposing captains</strong></td>
			<td><strong>Result</strong></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>IPL 2008</td>
			<td>Shane Warne (Rajasthan Royals)</td>
			<td>RR won</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>IPL 2010</td>
			<td>Sachin Tendulkar (Mumbai Indians)</td>
			<td>CSK won</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>IPL 2011</td>
			<td>Daniel Vettori (Royal Challengers Bangalore)</td>
			<td>CSK won</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>IPL 2012</td>
			<td>Gautam Gambhir (Kolkata Knight Riders)</td>
			<td>KKR won</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>IPL 2013</td>
			<td>Rohit Sharma (Mumbai Indians)</td>
			<td>MI won</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>IPL 2015</td>
			<td>Rohit Sharma (Mumbai Indians)</td>
			<td>MI won</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>IPL 2018</td>
			<td>Kane Williamson (Sunrisers Hyderabad)</td>
			<td>CSK won</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>IPL 2019</td>
			<td>Rohit Sharma (Mumbai Indians)</td>
			<td>MI won</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>IPL 2021</td>
			<td>Eoin Morgan (Kolkata Knight Riders)</td>
			<td>CSK won</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/cricket/ms-dhoni-records-in-ipl-finals-1685109100712"><strong>IPL 2023: MS Dhoni's Records in Finals</strong></a></p>

<p>After guiding CSK to this season's final, with a 15-run win over GT in Qualifier 1, Dhoni also opened up on his IPL future. As speculations are rife that IPL 2023 will be his last ever, he reacted to all the rumours in the post-match presentation and said, "I have 8-9 months to decide. Why take that headache now? I'll always be there for CSK, whether it is&nbsp;playing or something outside."</p>

<p>Talking about Dhoni's spectacular record&nbsp;in IPL finals, he has scored 180 runs at a strike rate of 135.33 with one half-century (best of 63 not out). Overall, he has played nine finals for CSK and&nbsp;one for now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiant (RPS).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Will Hardik Pandya outwit Dhoni in IPL 2023 finale? Or, will MSD outshine another opposition captain to win his fifth IPL trophy? Only time will tell...</p>


MS Dhoni is one of the legends of the game. Despite retiring from international cricket in August 2020, he remains one of the superstars of modern-day cricket and a huge name in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

MS Dhoni is one of the legends of the game. Despite retiring from international cricket in August 2020, he remains one of the superstars of modern-day cricket and a huge name in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Dhoni's craze has been immense in the IPL over the years. In this season, his presence has led to fans flocking in large numbers to witness him play in what is likely his last IPL edition. In IPL 2023, Dhoni has led from the front and taken the four-time winners Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to another final in the cash-rich league (Chennai's tenth overall). He has marshalled his troops brilliantly and also come up with small yet impactful knocks down the order. So far, he has 104 runs in 56 balls at a strike rate of 185.71. Speaking of Dhoni, IPL 2023 final will be his 11th appearance in an IPL summit clash; the most by any player. He has won the IPL on four occasions, all as a captain (for CSK). Ahead of CSK's face-off versus Gujarat Titans (GT), in Ahmedabad on Sunday evening (May 28), here's a look at all the opposition skippers Captain Cool Dhoni faced in nine IPL finals: Season Opposing captains Result IPL 2008 Shane Warne (Rajasthan Royals) RR won IPL 2010 Sachin Tendulkar (Mumbai Indians) CSK won IPL 2011 Daniel Vettori (Royal Challengers Bangalore) CSK won IPL 2012 Gautam Gambhir (Kolkata Knight Riders) KKR won IPL 2013 Rohit Sharma (Mumbai Indians) MI won IPL 2015 Rohit Sharma (Mumbai Indians) MI won IPL 2018 Kane Williamson (Sunrisers Hyderabad) CSK won IPL 2019 Rohit Sharma (Mumbai Indians) MI won IPL 2021 Eoin Morgan (Kolkata Knight Riders) CSK won Also Read: IPL 2023: MS Dhoni's Records in Finals After guiding CSK to this season's final, with a 15-run win over GT in Qualifier 1, Dhoni also opened up on his IPL future. As speculations are rife that IPL 2023 will be his last ever, he reacted to all the rumours in the post-match presentation and said, "I have 8-9 months to decide. Why take that headache now? I'll always be there for CSK, whether it is playing or something outside." Talking about Dhoni's spectacular record in IPL finals, he has scored 180 runs at a strike rate of 135.33 with one half-century (best of 63 not out). Overall, he has played nine finals for CSK and one for now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiant (RPS). Will Hardik Pandya outwit Dhoni in IPL 2023 finale? Or, will MSD outshine another opposition captain to win his fifth IPL trophy? Only time will tell...

IPL 2023: All the skippers who faced Captain Cool MS Dhoni in finals

<p>Mumbai Indians (MI) went past Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2023's Eliminator on Wednesday (May 24). The five-time winners, who entered the playoffs as the fourth-placed side, romped past LSG by 81 runs in defence of 182/8 courtesy of brilliance from young pacer Akash Madhwal and quickfire knocks from Suryakumar Yadav, Cameron Green and Nehal Wadhera.</p>

<p>Opting to bat first, MI rode on contributions from their main batters propelled Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. to a challenging total before Madhwal's five-for (5 for 5 in 3.3 overs), smart bowling changes and LSG succumbing to the pressure led Mumbai to Qualifier 2, where they meet defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) on Friday (May 26).</p>

<p>After the game, Aussie all-rounder Cameron Green -- who scored a century in MI's last game in the league stage and is churning out key wickets as well -- claimed that Rohit asked the team to focus on peaking at the right time than starting with a bang and then fading away.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-mumbais-late-resurgence-to-send-shivers-down-chennais-spine-says-ex-csk-opener-matthew-hayden-596232">IPL 2023: Mumbai's late resurgence to send shivers down Chennai's spine, says ex-CSK opener Matthew Hayden</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'You want to be peaking at the right time'</strong></h2>

<p>“All the experience that he has got in India and in the IPL. I think MI has never won the first game in the IPL, I think. He has tried to tell us a few times to calm us down at the start. You want to be peaking at this time of the year (tournament).</p>

<p>“That is what he has been speaking about. You don’t want to be playing good cricket at the start and then slowing down. You want to be peaking now. Ya, and we play a nice game tonight,” Cameron Green told the broadcasters.</p>

<p>MI will now ride on their sublime form to challenge GT and prevent them from entering their second straight IPL final. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have already qualified for the summit clash, to be held in Ahmedabad on Sunday (May 28).</p>


Mumbai Indians (MI) went past Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2023's Eliminator on Wednesday (May 24). The five-time winners, who entered the playoffs as the fourth-placed side, romped past LSG by 81 runs in defence of 182/8 courtesy of brilliance from young pacer Akash Madhwal and quickfire knocks from Suryakumar Yadav, Cameron Green and Nehal Wadhera.

Mumbai Indians (MI) went past Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2023's Eliminator on Wednesday (May 24). The five-time winners, who entered the playoffs as the fourth-placed side, romped past LSG by 81 runs in defence of 182/8 courtesy of brilliance from young pacer Akash Madhwal and quickfire knocks from Suryakumar Yadav, Cameron Green and Nehal Wadhera. Opting to bat first, MI rode on contributions from their main batters propelled Rohit Sharma & Co. to a challenging total before Madhwal's five-for (5 for 5 in 3.3 overs), smart bowling changes and LSG succumbing to the pressure led Mumbai to Qualifier 2, where they meet defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) on Friday (May 26). After the game, Aussie all-rounder Cameron Green -- who scored a century in MI's last game in the league stage and is churning out key wickets as well -- claimed that Rohit asked the team to focus on peaking at the right time than starting with a bang and then fading away. Also Read: IPL 2023: Mumbai's late resurgence to send shivers down Chennai's spine, says ex-CSK opener Matthew Hayden 'You want to be peaking at the right time' “All the experience that he has got in India and in the IPL. I think MI has never won the first game in the IPL, I think. He has tried to tell us a few times to calm us down at the start. You want to be peaking at this time of the year (tournament). “That is what he has been speaking about. You don’t want to be playing good cricket at the start and then slowing down. You want to be peaking now. Ya, and we play a nice game tonight,” Cameron Green told the broadcasters. MI will now ride on their sublime form to challenge GT and prevent them from entering their second straight IPL final. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have already qualified for the summit clash, to be held in Ahmedabad on Sunday (May 28).

Rohit Sharma wanted MI to peak now, not at the start, says Cameron Green as Mumbai enter Qualifier 2

<p>Big teams deliver on the big stage, and Mumbai Indians, for the nth time, have proved why they are the team to fear this season. Following a very Mumbai kind of a start, where they lost several matches on the trot early on, Rohit Sharma-led side turned the tide; they deployed a more fearless approach, which saw them reaching one step closer to facing Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2023 final.</p>

<p>Matthew Hayden, the former CSK opener, while speaking after Mumbai vs Lucknow Super Giants Eliminator that MI won by a whopping 81 runs, said looking at MI's resurgence and how they dominated oppositions lately, Chennai would fear facing them in the finals on Sunday.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-naveen-ul-haq-breaks-silence-on-kohli-chants-says-crowd-screaming-virats-name-doesnt-affect-him-596209">IPL 2023: Naveen-ul-Haq breaks silence on 'Kohli' chants, says crowd screaming Virat's name doesn't affect him</a></p>

<p>In the first half of the season, Mumbai Indians struggled to gain momentum as they lost four out of the seven games. In the next half of the tournament, MI won five out of the remaining matches and qualified for the playoffs. Facing LSG in the Eliminator on Wednesday, a team they were yet to beat until then, Mumbai thrashed them by 81 runs and cruised one step towards making the finals.</p>

<p>"Very special achievement, it's been a very big difference in the way MI have played in the two halves of the season. In the first 7 games, they won only three games and four losses. And in the next 7, they won 5. They have really got on a roll here. I would imagine opposition sides will be fearing MI now," Hayden told Star Sports, as quoted by India Today.</p>

<h2>MI's form, final's history to haunt CSK - Hayden</h2>

<p>Chennai and Mumbai are the two most successful sides in IPL history, having won four and five titles, respectively. Meanwhile, in the four previous finals between these two sides, Mumbai has come in the top three times, making them a strong contender for the title this time if they go past Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 2.</p>

<p>Earlier, CSK's bowling coach and legend Dwayne Bravo also jokingly echoed the same concerns about CSK fearing facing Mumbai in the finals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If they haven't already, and Mumbai Indians are not only in a position in the next game where they can qualify (for the final), that is going to send some real shivers through the spines of CSK. We have already heard that from one of their very greatest DJ Bravo. But also, Gujarat Titans, who would have they wanted to play, I don't think it would be Mumbai Indians," Hayden added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Mumbai will travel to Ahmedabad to face Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 2 of IPL 2023.&nbsp;</p>

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Big teams deliver on the big stage, and Mumbai Indians, for the nth time, have proved why they are the team to fear this season. Following a very Mumbai kind of a start, where they lost several matches on the trot early on, Rohit Sharma-led side turned the tide; they deployed a more fearless approach, which saw them reaching one step closer to facing Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2023 final.

Big teams deliver on the big stage, and Mumbai Indians, for the nth time, have proved why they are the team to fear this season. Following a very Mumbai kind of a start, where they lost several matches on the trot early on, Rohit Sharma-led side turned the tide; they deployed a more fearless approach, which saw them reaching one step closer to facing Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2023 final. Matthew Hayden, the former CSK opener, while speaking after Mumbai vs Lucknow Super Giants Eliminator that MI won by a whopping 81 runs, said looking at MI's resurgence and how they dominated oppositions lately, Chennai would fear facing them in the finals on Sunday. ALSO READ: IPL 2023: Naveen-ul-Haq breaks silence on 'Kohli' chants, says crowd screaming Virat's name doesn't affect him In the first half of the season, Mumbai Indians struggled to gain momentum as they lost four out of the seven games. In the next half of the tournament, MI won five out of the remaining matches and qualified for the playoffs. Facing LSG in the Eliminator on Wednesday, a team they were yet to beat until then, Mumbai thrashed them by 81 runs and cruised one step towards making the finals. "Very special achievement, it's been a very big difference in the way MI have played in the two halves of the season. In the first 7 games, they won only three games and four losses. And in the next 7, they won 5. They have really got on a roll here. I would imagine opposition sides will be fearing MI now," Hayden told Star Sports, as quoted by India Today. MI's form, final's history to haunt CSK - Hayden Chennai and Mumbai are the two most successful sides in IPL history, having won four and five titles, respectively. Meanwhile, in the four previous finals between these two sides, Mumbai has come in the top three times, making them a strong contender for the title this time if they go past Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 2. Earlier, CSK's bowling coach and legend Dwayne Bravo also jokingly echoed the same concerns about CSK fearing facing Mumbai in the finals. "If they haven't already, and Mumbai Indians are not only in a position in the next game where they can qualify (for the final), that is going to send some real shivers through the spines of CSK. We have already heard that from one of their very greatest DJ Bravo. But also, Gujarat Titans, who would have they wanted to play, I don't think it would be Mumbai Indians," Hayden added. Meanwhile, Mumbai will travel to Ahmedabad to face Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 2 of IPL 2023. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

IPL 2023: Mumbai's late resurgence to send shivers down Chennai's spine, says ex-CSK opener Matthew Hayden

<p>MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) reached their tenth IPL final as they went past defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) by 15 runs in Qualifier 1 of IPL 2023 on Tuesday (May 23). Hosting the formidable GT franchise, the Yellow Army rode on Ruturaj Gaikwad's 44-ball 60 to post 172 for 7 and dismissed Gujarat for 157 on the last ball of the match. With this, CSK entered their tenth finale; the most by any team in IPL history.</p>

<p>After the clash, the Chennai fans stayed back in the stadium as they wanted to hear their beloved Thala Dhoni in the post-match presentation. As IPL 2023 is widely speculated to be Dhoni's last season, the Chennai fans were emotional as he might have played his last at the venue, with the final to be held in Ahmedabad on Sunday (May 28). Dhoni was asked whether he played his last game in Chennai and if he plans to return for IPL 2024 and the 41-year-old remained tight lipped as he will take a call closer to the upcoming mini auction, later this year.</p>

<p>However, CSK bowling coach and former all-rounder Dwayne Bravo is confident that Dhoni will feature in IPL 2024 and claimed that the Impact Player rule can prolong his career.</p>

<h2><strong>'MS Dhoni&nbsp;can keep prolonging his career'</strong></h2>

<p>“100 percent (will he return to play for CSK in 2024?), especially with the Impact Player rule. He can keep prolonging his career. We bat really deep. I think the likes of Ajinkya Rahane and Shivam Dube, these guys make a huge difference. So you don’t require much from MS. But his ability to keep us calm while the team is under pressure is unmatched,” said Bravo wpeaking to Star Sports after Qualifier 1.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-ms-dhoni-offers-update-on-his-future-after-csk-beat-gt-in-first-qualifier-watch-595820">IPL 2023: MS Dhoni offers update on his future after CSK beat GT in first qualifier - WATCH</a></strong></p>

<p>At the post-match presentation, broadcaster Harsha Bhogle asked Dhoni about his IPL future. To this, the CSK captain said, "I don't know. I have 8-9 months to decide. The small auction will be around December. So why to take that headache right now? I have ample time to decide. But, I will always be there for CSK whether it's in the playing form or sitting somewhere outside."</p>

<p>CSK will now enjoy a four-day break before they take the field on Sunday evening (May 28) for the IPL 2023 mega finale.</p>

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MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) reached their tenth IPL final as they went past defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) by 15 runs in Qualifier 1 of IPL 2023 on Tuesday (May 23).

MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) reached their tenth IPL final as they went past defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) by 15 runs in Qualifier 1 of IPL 2023 on Tuesday (May 23). Hosting the formidable GT franchise, the Yellow Army rode on Ruturaj Gaikwad's 44-ball 60 to post 172 for 7 and dismissed Gujarat for 157 on the last ball of the match. With this, CSK entered their tenth finale; the most by any team in IPL history. After the clash, the Chennai fans stayed back in the stadium as they wanted to hear their beloved Thala Dhoni in the post-match presentation. As IPL 2023 is widely speculated to be Dhoni's last season, the Chennai fans were emotional as he might have played his last at the venue, with the final to be held in Ahmedabad on Sunday (May 28). Dhoni was asked whether he played his last game in Chennai and if he plans to return for IPL 2024 and the 41-year-old remained tight lipped as he will take a call closer to the upcoming mini auction, later this year. However, CSK bowling coach and former all-rounder Dwayne Bravo is confident that Dhoni will feature in IPL 2024 and claimed that the Impact Player rule can prolong his career. 'MS Dhoni can keep prolonging his career' “100 percent (will he return to play for CSK in 2024?), especially with the Impact Player rule. He can keep prolonging his career. We bat really deep. I think the likes of Ajinkya Rahane and Shivam Dube, these guys make a huge difference. So you don’t require much from MS. But his ability to keep us calm while the team is under pressure is unmatched,” said Bravo wpeaking to Star Sports after Qualifier 1. Also Read: IPL 2023: MS Dhoni offers update on his future after CSK beat GT in first qualifier - WATCH At the post-match presentation, broadcaster Harsha Bhogle asked Dhoni about his IPL future. To this, the CSK captain said, "I don't know. I have 8-9 months to decide. The small auction will be around December. So why to take that headache right now? I have ample time to decide. But, I will always be there for CSK whether it's in the playing form or sitting somewhere outside." CSK will now enjoy a four-day break before they take the field on Sunday evening (May 28) for the IPL 2023 mega finale. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

IPL 2023: MS Dhoni can prolong his career with Impact Player rule, opines CSK bowling coach Dwayne Bravo

<p>MS Dhoni’s Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have reached a record 10th Indian Premier League (IPL) final after they beat defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) by 15 runs in Qualifier 1 on Tuesday, May 23. Playing at their traditional home ground of MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, CSK were at the top of the game as they will now face the winner of Qualifier 2 where GT will play the winner of Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants on Friday.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">𝗡𝗲𝘅𝘁 𝗗𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: 𝗙𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗟 ✈️😉<br />
<br />
Congratulations 🥳 to 𝗖𝗛𝗘𝗡𝗡𝗔𝗜 𝗦𝗨𝗣𝗘𝗥 𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚𝗦, the first team to qualify for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> 2023 Final 💛<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Qualifier1?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Qualifier1</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GTvCSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GTvCSK</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a> <a href="https://t.co/LgtrhwjBxH">pic.twitter.com/LgtrhwjBxH</a></p>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1661068001893036034?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>CSK at top of their game</strong></h2>

<p>Having set a target of 173 for GT, CSK looked in complete command of the contest as they dealt LSG early blows. GT lost Wriddhiman Saha (12) and Hardik Pandya (8) in the powerplay as Deepak Chahar and Maheesh Theekshana were spot-on with their approach with the ball. Despite this, Shubman Gill’s well-made 42 was the highlight of the GT innings but other players failed to produce big innings.</p>

<p>With GT batters failing to impress, it was CSK bowlers that rose to the occasion as four bowlers ended with two wickets each – Chahar, Theekshana, Ravindra Jadeja and Matheesha Pathirana. Tushar Deshpande ended with a wicket as well. Only five GT batters got in double figures as they were bowled out for 157 and were never in the contest.</p>

<h2><strong>What happened in the CSK innings?</strong></h2>

<p>Mohammed Shami and Mohit Sharma bagged two wickets each as Gujarat Titans restricted Chennai Super Kings to 172/7 in 20 overs at MA Chidambaram Stadium in the first qualifier match of the league. Ruturaj Gaikwad top scored for CSK scoring 60 from 44 balls.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pcb-prepares-action-plan-of-asia-cup-hybrid-model-as-demanded-by-bcci-sources-595360">PCB prepares action plan of Asia Cup hybrid model as demanded by BCCI - Sources</a></p>

<p>Put into bat, Chennai Super Kings lost the wicket of Ruturaj Gaikwad with only five runs on the board. Darshan Nalkande got the wicket of Gaikwad but his celebration was short-lived as umpire called it a no ball. After that, Gaikwad and Devon Conway batted well and helped CSK put on 49 without the loss of any wicket in the first six overs of powerplay.</p>

<p>CSK will now await the winner of Qualifier 2 where they can yet again face GT while five-time champions Mumbai Indians are also in contention. LSG will host MI in the Eliminator clash on Wednesday while the winner will face GT on Friday.</p>

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MS Dhoni’s Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have reached a record 10th Indian Premier League (IPL) final after they beat defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) by 15 runs in Qualifier 1 on Tuesday, May 23.

MS Dhoni’s Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have reached a record 10th Indian Premier League (IPL) final after they beat defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) by 15 runs in Qualifier 1 on Tuesday, May 23. Playing at their traditional home ground of MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, CSK were at the top of the game as they will now face the winner of Qualifier 2 where GT will play the winner of Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants on Friday. 𝗡𝗲𝘅𝘁 𝗗𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: 𝗙𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗟 ✈️😉 Congratulations 🥳 to 𝗖𝗛𝗘𝗡𝗡𝗔𝗜 𝗦𝗨𝗣𝗘𝗥 𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚𝗦, the first team to qualify for #TATAIPL 2023 Final 💛#Qualifier1 | #GTvCSK | @ChennaiIPL pic.twitter.com/LgtrhwjBxH — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) May 23, 2023 × CSK at top of their game Having set a target of 173 for GT, CSK looked in complete command of the contest as they dealt LSG early blows. GT lost Wriddhiman Saha (12) and Hardik Pandya (8) in the powerplay as Deepak Chahar and Maheesh Theekshana were spot-on with their approach with the ball. Despite this, Shubman Gill’s well-made 42 was the highlight of the GT innings but other players failed to produce big innings. With GT batters failing to impress, it was CSK bowlers that rose to the occasion as four bowlers ended with two wickets each – Chahar, Theekshana, Ravindra Jadeja and Matheesha Pathirana. Tushar Deshpande ended with a wicket as well. Only five GT batters got in double figures as they were bowled out for 157 and were never in the contest. What happened in the CSK innings? Mohammed Shami and Mohit Sharma bagged two wickets each as Gujarat Titans restricted Chennai Super Kings to 172/7 in 20 overs at MA Chidambaram Stadium in the first qualifier match of the league. Ruturaj Gaikwad top scored for CSK scoring 60 from 44 balls. ALSO READ | PCB prepares action plan of Asia Cup hybrid model as demanded by BCCI - Sources Put into bat, Chennai Super Kings lost the wicket of Ruturaj Gaikwad with only five runs on the board. Darshan Nalkande got the wicket of Gaikwad but his celebration was short-lived as umpire called it a no ball. After that, Gaikwad and Devon Conway batted well and helped CSK put on 49 without the loss of any wicket in the first six overs of powerplay. CSK will now await the winner of Qualifier 2 where they can yet again face GT while five-time champions Mumbai Indians are also in contention. LSG will host MI in the Eliminator clash on Wednesday while the winner will face GT on Friday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

IPL Qualifier 1: MS Dhoni's CSK beat GT by 15 runs to reach record 10th final

<p>After a riveting end to the league stage, Qualifier 1 of IPL 2023 will be held on Tuesday evening (May 23) with the defending champions Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans (GT) taking on the four-time winners Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Talking about the GT franchise, they finished at the top of the points table (with 20 points) whereas Dhoni &amp; Co. ended at the second spot with 17 points from 14 games.</p>

<p>While GT have a 3-0 head-to-head record versus the Yellow Army, they will be wary of CSK's experience in the playoff stages of the premier T20 tournament. Chennai have played the most games in the playoffs (24) and won as many as 15 matches (most by any team). Thus, former Indian batter Virender Sehwag revealed the player who will be the trump card for Gujarat in their marquee clash versus Chennai. Sehwag feels Rashid Khan, currently the&nbsp;second-highest wicket-taker (24 scalps) in IPL 2023, will be Gujarat's trump card.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Rashid Khan is the trump card for Gujarat'</strong></h2>

<p>"Rashid Khan is the trump card for Gujarat. If they want wickets, they bring him. And then the way Hardik has used Rashid, it is commendable. Rashid likes to break partnerships and now he has become the most successful bowler of this season on the basis of his excellent performance," Sehwag said while speaking ahead of Qualifier 1.</p>

<p>The Afghan spinner has churned out 24 wickets at an economy of&nbsp;7.82 and an average of&nbsp;18.25, including a hat-trick. He has contained runs as well as accounted for wickets in crunch situations. Rashid has also groomed fellow countryman and Gujarat teammate Noor Ahmad, who ended the league stage with 13 wickets in ten games.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2023-reliving-csks-plethora-of-highs-under-ms-dhonis-captaincy-595182">IPL 2023: Reliving CSK's plethora of highs under MS Dhoni's captaincy</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar analysed both teams, while part of&nbsp;the same panel, and said, "Chennai Super Kings and Gujarat Titans have been very similar teams tactically. Both these teams don't look to make too much of changes and the leadership group keeps the atmosphere light in the dressing room. The battle between these two in playoffs will be an interesting one."</p>

<p>GT and CSK will lock horns in Qualifier 1 in Chennai on Tuesday evening (May 23) and the winner will book a place in the final (on May 28 in Ahmedabad). Meanwhile, the loser will play the winner of the Eliminator -- to be held between Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Mumbai Indians (MI) -- which will take place on Wednesday (May 24) in Chennai.</p>

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After a riveting end to the league stage, Qualifier 1 of IPL 2023 will be held on Tuesday evening (May 23) with the defending champions Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans (GT) taking on the four-time winners Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

After a riveting end to the league stage, Qualifier 1 of IPL 2023 will be held on Tuesday evening (May 23) with the defending champions Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans (GT) taking on the four-time winners Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Talking about the GT franchise, they finished at the top of the points table (with 20 points) whereas Dhoni & Co. ended at the second spot with 17 points from 14 games. While GT have a 3-0 head-to-head record versus the Yellow Army, they will be wary of CSK's experience in the playoff stages of the premier T20 tournament. Chennai have played the most games in the playoffs (24) and won as many as 15 matches (most by any team). Thus, former Indian batter Virender Sehwag revealed the player who will be the trump card for Gujarat in their marquee clash versus Chennai. Sehwag feels Rashid Khan, currently the second-highest wicket-taker (24 scalps) in IPL 2023, will be Gujarat's trump card. 'Rashid Khan is the trump card for Gujarat' "Rashid Khan is the trump card for Gujarat. If they want wickets, they bring him. And then the way Hardik has used Rashid, it is commendable. Rashid likes to break partnerships and now he has become the most successful bowler of this season on the basis of his excellent performance," Sehwag said while speaking ahead of Qualifier 1. The Afghan spinner has churned out 24 wickets at an economy of 7.82 and an average of 18.25, including a hat-trick. He has contained runs as well as accounted for wickets in crunch situations. Rashid has also groomed fellow countryman and Gujarat teammate Noor Ahmad, who ended the league stage with 13 wickets in ten games. Also Read: IPL 2023: Reliving CSK's plethora of highs under MS Dhoni's captaincy Meanwhile, former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar analysed both teams, while part of the same panel, and said, "Chennai Super Kings and Gujarat Titans have been very similar teams tactically. Both these teams don't look to make too much of changes and the leadership group keeps the atmosphere light in the dressing room. The battle between these two in playoffs will be an interesting one." GT and CSK will lock horns in Qualifier 1 in Chennai on Tuesday evening (May 23) and the winner will book a place in the final (on May 28 in Ahmedabad). Meanwhile, the loser will play the winner of the Eliminator -- to be held between Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Mumbai Indians (MI) -- which will take place on Wednesday (May 24) in Chennai. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

IPL 2023: Virender Sehwag names Hardik Pandya-led GT's trump card ahead of Qualifier 1 vs CSK

<p>After a miserable run in IPL 2022, where they finished ninth, the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) qualified for the playoffs in IPL 2023. They ended the league stage with 17 points -- eight wins from 14 games -- to finish at the second spot. In Qualifier 1, they will take on the defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT), who once again dominated the league stage and topped the overall standings with ten victories from 14 matches.&nbsp;</p>

<p>GT and CSK met each other in the opening encounter of IPL 2023 where Gujarat won by five wickets in Ahmedabad. So far, both sides have faced each other thrice with Gujarat emerging on top on each occasion. Thus, Hardik Pandya &amp; Co. will have the edge but the game will be held at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. Ahead of Qualifier 1, former CSK spinner Harbhajan Singh opined on the game and feels that Chennai will have advantage of playing at home but their performance has not been foolproof this year at the Chepauk.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To back Harbhajan's claims, Dhoni &amp; Co. have lost as many as three home games in IPL 2023 -- versus Rajasthan Royals (RR), Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). In the recent past, CSK head coach Stephen Fleming has admitted that the team is still trying to figure out the conditions and pitches on offer on home soil.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'CSK have home advantage but....'</strong></h2>

<p>Bhajji was quoted as saying on Star Sports Live, "The contest between CSK and GT will be intense as both teams know how to win big games. CSK playing at home is a big advantage. They know the conditions well, but somewhere their performance at home hasn't been foolproof this year."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-virender-sehwag-names-hardik-pandya-led-gts-trump-card-ahead-of-qualifier-1-vs-csk-595397">IPL 2023: Virender Sehwag names Hardik Pandya-led GT's trump card ahead of Qualifier 1 vs CSK</a></strong></p>

<p>"So this makes things interesting, but CSK looks a completely different side when it plays in the playoffs. I am really looking forward to this match," Harbhajan asserted.</p>

<p>The former Indian spinner, however,&nbsp;added, "Ruturaj Gaikwad and Devon Conway come to the ground with full preparation. They have been complimenting each other very well this season.&nbsp; They have given good starts to CSK and scored runs in abundance and entertained the spectators. The team whose openers play well, tend to score well and that is why CSK are in a good position today."</p>

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After a miserable run in IPL 2022, where they finished ninth, the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) qualified for the playoffs in IPL 2023. They ended the league stage with 17 points -- eight wins from 14 games -- to finish at the second spot.

After a miserable run in IPL 2022, where they finished ninth, the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) qualified for the playoffs in IPL 2023. They ended the league stage with 17 points -- eight wins from 14 games -- to finish at the second spot. In Qualifier 1, they will take on the defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT), who once again dominated the league stage and topped the overall standings with ten victories from 14 matches. GT and CSK met each other in the opening encounter of IPL 2023 where Gujarat won by five wickets in Ahmedabad. So far, both sides have faced each other thrice with Gujarat emerging on top on each occasion. Thus, Hardik Pandya & Co. will have the edge but the game will be held at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. Ahead of Qualifier 1, former CSK spinner Harbhajan Singh opined on the game and feels that Chennai will have advantage of playing at home but their performance has not been foolproof this year at the Chepauk. To back Harbhajan's claims, Dhoni & Co. have lost as many as three home games in IPL 2023 -- versus Rajasthan Royals (RR), Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). In the recent past, CSK head coach Stephen Fleming has admitted that the team is still trying to figure out the conditions and pitches on offer on home soil. 'CSK have home advantage but....' Bhajji was quoted as saying on Star Sports Live, "The contest between CSK and GT will be intense as both teams know how to win big games. CSK playing at home is a big advantage. They know the conditions well, but somewhere their performance at home hasn't been foolproof this year." Also Read: IPL 2023: Virender Sehwag names Hardik Pandya-led GT's trump card ahead of Qualifier 1 vs CSK "So this makes things interesting, but CSK looks a completely different side when it plays in the playoffs. I am really looking forward to this match," Harbhajan asserted. The former Indian spinner, however, added, "Ruturaj Gaikwad and Devon Conway come to the ground with full preparation. They have been complimenting each other very well this season. They have given good starts to CSK and scored runs in abundance and entertained the spectators. The team whose openers play well, tend to score well and that is why CSK are in a good position today." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

'CSK playing at home is big advantage but...': Harbhajan opines on MS Dhoni & Co.'s Qualifier 1 tie vs GT

IPL 2023: Reliving CSK's plethora of highs under MS Dhoni's captaincy

<p>Sri Lankan bowling legend Lasith Malinga has shared his views on the young prodigy, compatriot Matheesha Pathirana, who is playing his trade in IPL 2023 with Chennai Super Kings. In a recent discussion with ESPNcricinfo, Malinga spoke in detail about the newly-talked-about bowler in world cricket.</p>

<p>While he thinks Pathirana has a long way to go regarding developing into a proper all-format bowler, Malinga expressed his disagreement over CSK captain MS Dhoni's remarks on Pathirana staying away from red-ball cricket.</p>

<p>Malinga, who played 30 Tests for nearly six years from 2004 to 2010, knows the pros and cons of bowling with similar action in the longer format. While the veteran seamer said Dhoni's experience is helping Pathirana to deliver during the fag end of the innings, the young seamer from Kandy is still far from adopting the beast mode with the new ball in hand.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-2023-injuries-to-bumrah-pant-to-badly-affect-india-aussies-to-start-as-favourites-ian-chappell-594760">WTC Final 2023: Injuries to Bumrah, Pant to badly affect India, Aussies to start as favourites - Ian Chappell</a></p>

<p>Figuring out how MS is using Pathirana with the relatively older ball this season, Malinga said Dhoni knows he cannot give the new ball to him because he doesn't have the swing, which is required to threaten even the best of batters at this stage.</p>

<p>"MS has figured out that he can't bowl with the new ball yet. He also uses him against local Indian batters at the crease - players who don't play international cricket. With the 145kph pace and his action, it's hard for them to play him. That's just MS' 20 years of experience at work."</p>

<p>"He also gets him to lower his pace against batters who are purely power players. Against batters who use the pace - like a Rohit Sharma, or a Mahela Jayawardene, or a Virat Kohli - those players Matheesha might struggle against for now," Malinga said during an interaction with ESPNcricinfo.</p>

<h2>Malinga plays downs Dhoni's advice for Pathirana</h2>

<p>Earlier in the tournament, MS made remarks about Pathirana's future, saying to bring the best out of him, Sri Lanka must utilise his services carefully - further suggesting that he should stick to playing in white-ball&nbsp;tournaments and be away from Test cricket.</p>

<p>Commenting on the same, Malinga said MS must be joking because he strongly disagrees with the CSK captain. Backing his point, Malinga added,</p>

<p>"I think anyone who tells him (Pathirana) not to play red-ball cricket is doing that because they think he will get injured. I played red-ball cricket first. No one said anything like that to me. I played red-ball cricket between 2004 to 2010, but I had a 16-year international career, and I played a lot of IPL, plus Big Bash and all the other leagues.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In all that time, I never left the field after injuring a hamstring, or a groin, or my back, or my calf. Maybe a lot of people will oppose me, but I don't think we should just presume that he will get injured. I've played cricket this way and bowled like him, so I know what the challenges are," Malinga added.</p>

<p>In IPL 2023, Pathirana has picked 15 wickets from 10 matches, with an economy rate of 7.56. With CSK qualifying for the playoffs this season, Pathirana will have a chance to impress everyone during the knockout stages. CSK will next face Gujarat Titans on Tuesday, May 23rd, in Qualifier 1 at Chepauk.</p>

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Sri Lankan bowling legend Lasith Malinga has shared his views on the young prodigy, compatriot Matheesha Pathirana, who is playing his trade in IPL 2023 with Chennai Super Kings.

Sri Lankan bowling legend Lasith Malinga has shared his views on the young prodigy, compatriot Matheesha Pathirana, who is playing his trade in IPL 2023 with Chennai Super Kings. In a recent discussion with ESPNcricinfo, Malinga spoke in detail about the newly-talked-about bowler in world cricket. While he thinks Pathirana has a long way to go regarding developing into a proper all-format bowler, Malinga expressed his disagreement over CSK captain MS Dhoni's remarks on Pathirana staying away from red-ball cricket. Malinga, who played 30 Tests for nearly six years from 2004 to 2010, knows the pros and cons of bowling with similar action in the longer format. While the veteran seamer said Dhoni's experience is helping Pathirana to deliver during the fag end of the innings, the young seamer from Kandy is still far from adopting the beast mode with the new ball in hand. ALSO READ: WTC Final 2023: Injuries to Bumrah, Pant to badly affect India, Aussies to start as favourites - Ian Chappell Figuring out how MS is using Pathirana with the relatively older ball this season, Malinga said Dhoni knows he cannot give the new ball to him because he doesn't have the swing, which is required to threaten even the best of batters at this stage. "MS has figured out that he can't bowl with the new ball yet. He also uses him against local Indian batters at the crease - players who don't play international cricket. With the 145kph pace and his action, it's hard for them to play him. That's just MS' 20 years of experience at work." "He also gets him to lower his pace against batters who are purely power players. Against batters who use the pace - like a Rohit Sharma, or a Mahela Jayawardene, or a Virat Kohli - those players Matheesha might struggle against for now," Malinga said during an interaction with ESPNcricinfo. Malinga plays downs Dhoni's advice for Pathirana Earlier in the tournament, MS made remarks about Pathirana's future, saying to bring the best out of him, Sri Lanka must utilise his services carefully - further suggesting that he should stick to playing in white-ball tournaments and be away from Test cricket. Commenting on the same, Malinga said MS must be joking because he strongly disagrees with the CSK captain. Backing his point, Malinga added, "I think anyone who tells him (Pathirana) not to play red-ball cricket is doing that because they think he will get injured. I played red-ball cricket first. No one said anything like that to me. I played red-ball cricket between 2004 to 2010, but I had a 16-year international career, and I played a lot of IPL, plus Big Bash and all the other leagues. "In all that time, I never left the field after injuring a hamstring, or a groin, or my back, or my calf. Maybe a lot of people will oppose me, but I don't think we should just presume that he will get injured. I've played cricket this way and bowled like him, so I know what the challenges are," Malinga added. In IPL 2023, Pathirana has picked 15 wickets from 10 matches, with an economy rate of 7.56. With CSK qualifying for the playoffs this season, Pathirana will have a chance to impress everyone during the knockout stages. CSK will next face Gujarat Titans on Tuesday, May 23rd, in Qualifier 1 at Chepauk. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

IPL 2023: Lasith Malinga disagrees with MS Dhoni, backs compatriot Matheesha Pathirana to play Tests

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<p>Everyone’s favourite, Mahendra Singh Dhoni, is going anywhere. While he upped his game about letting everyone guess by when he will hang his boots from the Indian Premier League (IPL), Chennai Super Kings batting coach Michael Hussey’s latest prediction is set to blow the roof off.</p>

<p>In a recent interaction with the PTI, Hussey said Dhoni, aged 41, is still motivated to deliver for his team and appears into training fresh, and hasn’t shown signs of slowing down amid speculations of him retiring following this season.</p>

<p>Ahead of CSK’s final league match against Delhi Capitals on Saturday, Hussey shared his thoughts on&nbsp;<em>Thala</em>, as Dhoni’s fans often call him, saying given how he is going about his business, he won’t get surprised to see Dhoni playing for another five years in this league. The former IPL winner with CSK, Hussey, added Dhoni’s six-hitting ability hasn’t diminished either.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-match-67th-delhi-capitals-vs-chennai-super-kings-match-preview-and-result-prediction-594344">IPL 2023, Match 67th: Delhi Capitals vs Chennai Super Kings - Match preview and result prediction</a></p>

<p>"He's still batting very well, is still motivated to coming into training and working on his game, and hitting the ball well. We've seen he comes late in the innings and finishes things well,” Hussey told PTI, as quoted in India Today.</p>

<p>“He's still got the six-hitting ability, while he's enjoying it and is contributing to the team then there is no reason why he can't keep going for maybe another five years,” Mr. Cricket added.</p>

<h2>Hussey reveals reason behind MS' batting position this season</h2>

<p>While CSK’s top order had made headlines several times this season for outstanding outings, Dhoni’s cameos on a few occasions where he came and hit two sixes off the last two overs also got the crowd cheering. The former Indian captain has been struggling with the troubled knee and cannot run much, and as pointed out by Hussey, it is one of the reasons MS came so late to bat during all the innings.</p>

<p>"I think it's pretty clear that he likes to come in the last few overs, that's his plan," Hussey said while talking about MS Dhoni’s knee injury.</p>

<p>"It's been well documented that his knee has not been a 100 per cent, and he's trying to get through the matches as best as he can throughout the tournament. So, I think he doesn't want to come in the 10th, 11th or 12th over and have to run those quick doubles all the time, that's going to put pressure on the knee," CSK’s batting coach added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, in 13 matches, Dhoni has scored 98 runs at an average of 49 and strike rate of 196.</p>

<p>CSK’s last league match is against DC, and for the them to qualify for the playoffs and finish in top two, Chennai has to win the game.</p>

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Everyone’s favourite, Mahendra Singh Dhoni, is going anywhere. While he upped his game about letting everyone guess by when he will hang his boots from the Indian Premier League (IPL), Chennai Super Kings batting coach Michael Hussey’s latest prediction is set to blow the roof off.

Everyone’s favourite, Mahendra Singh Dhoni, is going anywhere. While he upped his game about letting everyone guess by when he will hang his boots from the Indian Premier League (IPL), Chennai Super Kings batting coach Michael Hussey’s latest prediction is set to blow the roof off. In a recent interaction with the PTI, Hussey said Dhoni, aged 41, is still motivated to deliver for his team and appears into training fresh, and hasn’t shown signs of slowing down amid speculations of him retiring following this season. Ahead of CSK’s final league match against Delhi Capitals on Saturday, Hussey shared his thoughts on Thala, as Dhoni’s fans often call him, saying given how he is going about his business, he won’t get surprised to see Dhoni playing for another five years in this league. The former IPL winner with CSK, Hussey, added Dhoni’s six-hitting ability hasn’t diminished either. ALSO READ: IPL 2023, Match 67th: Delhi Capitals vs Chennai Super Kings - Match preview and result prediction "He's still batting very well, is still motivated to coming into training and working on his game, and hitting the ball well. We've seen he comes late in the innings and finishes things well,” Hussey told PTI, as quoted in India Today. “He's still got the six-hitting ability, while he's enjoying it and is contributing to the team then there is no reason why he can't keep going for maybe another five years,” Mr. Cricket added. Hussey reveals reason behind MS' batting position this season While CSK’s top order had made headlines several times this season for outstanding outings, Dhoni’s cameos on a few occasions where he came and hit two sixes off the last two overs also got the crowd cheering. The former Indian captain has been struggling with the troubled knee and cannot run much, and as pointed out by Hussey, it is one of the reasons MS came so late to bat during all the innings. "I think it's pretty clear that he likes to come in the last few overs, that's his plan," Hussey said while talking about MS Dhoni’s knee injury. "It's been well documented that his knee has not been a 100 per cent, and he's trying to get through the matches as best as he can throughout the tournament. So, I think he doesn't want to come in the 10th, 11th or 12th over and have to run those quick doubles all the time, that's going to put pressure on the knee," CSK’s batting coach added. Meanwhile, in 13 matches, Dhoni has scored 98 runs at an average of 49 and strike rate of 196. CSK’s last league match is against DC, and for the them to qualify for the playoffs and finish in top two, Chennai has to win the game. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Forget retiring this season, Hussey's latest prediction about Dhoni could see him playing for next 5 years

<p>The match everyone has been waiting for is finally upon us – the return leg of Delhi Capitals vs Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2023. With Delhi regaining top form in the final hour and Chennai needing to cross the last hurdle to finish in the top two, this match promises to deliver. As Delhi is out of the tournament following a dismal start, they will aim to upset CSK’s rhythm in Saturday’s afternoon clash as the playoffs approach.</p>

<p>The hosts Delhi Capitals are coming off a close win over Punjab Kings in Dharamsala and will aim to finish on a high against the qualification-seeking CSK side. With captain David Warner and Prithvi Shaw scoring runs at the top against PBKS, something DC would have liked to have happened earlier, Delhi’s batting got the much-needed confidence.</p>

<p>The overseas pair of South Africa’s Rilee Rossouw and England’s Phil Salt is also delivering with the bat, while Axar Patel and upcoming superstar Aman Khan are there to take care of the proceedings in the slog overs. The bowling looks sorted, with the Indian quartet living to the expectations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-jaiswal-padikkal-keep-rrs-playoff-hopes-alive-in-thrilling-win-pbks-officially-out-594257">IPL 2023: Jaiswal, Padikkal keep RR's playoff hopes alive in thrilling win; PBKS officially out</a></p>

<p>With nothing to lose in their final league game this season, DC will come all guns blazing and put up a show worth remembering.</p>

<p>On the other hand, Chennai Super Kings have everything to play for, as the second spot on the points table is up for grabs. The MS Dhoni-led side had suffered jitters lately, but with the confident unit at the helm, they can overturn their fortunes and head for another knockout stage finish in the IPL.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While they also have a few issues to iron out, also with Ben Stokes firm to leave for England following this game, CSK might opt to play him ahead of under-fire Moeen Ali on the sluggish Delhi track. Besides, with Sri Lanka’s Maheesh Theekshana not performing lately, he could also get dropped for the English star, who is unlikely to bowl, as informed by coach Stephen Fleming.</p>

<p>Once again, all eyes will be on Shivam Dube, who made this tournament his own with sublime form. On this small Delhi ground, lanky Dube will aim to smash longer sixes and push for a probable win.</p>

<h2><strong>Result Prediction –</strong></h2>

<p>While Delhi has nothing to fear, and with momentum on their side, they could upset Chennai and dent their chances of remaining in the top two on the points table.</p>

<p><strong>Predicted XIs of both sides -</strong></p>

<p><strong>Delhi Capitals -</strong>&nbsp;David Warner, Prithvi Shaw, Phil Salt, Rilee Rossouw, Sarfaraz Khan, Yash Dhull, Axar Patel, Aman Khan, Kuldeep Yadav, Anrich Nortje, Ishant Sharma and&nbsp;Khaleel Ahmed</p>

<p><strong>Chennai Super Kings -</strong>&nbsp;Devon Conway, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ajinkya Rahane, Shivam Dube, Ambati Rayudu, Ben Stokes, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni, Deepak Chahar, Tushar Deshpande, Maheesh Theekshana and&nbsp;Matheesha Pathirana</p>

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The match everyone has been waiting for is finally upon us – the return leg of Delhi Capitals vs Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2023. With Delhi regaining top form in the final hour and Chennai needing to cross the last hurdle to finish in the top two, this match promises to deliver.

The match everyone has been waiting for is finally upon us – the return leg of Delhi Capitals vs Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2023. With Delhi regaining top form in the final hour and Chennai needing to cross the last hurdle to finish in the top two, this match promises to deliver. As Delhi is out of the tournament following a dismal start, they will aim to upset CSK’s rhythm in Saturday’s afternoon clash as the playoffs approach. The hosts Delhi Capitals are coming off a close win over Punjab Kings in Dharamsala and will aim to finish on a high against the qualification-seeking CSK side. With captain David Warner and Prithvi Shaw scoring runs at the top against PBKS, something DC would have liked to have happened earlier, Delhi’s batting got the much-needed confidence. The overseas pair of South Africa’s Rilee Rossouw and England’s Phil Salt is also delivering with the bat, while Axar Patel and upcoming superstar Aman Khan are there to take care of the proceedings in the slog overs. The bowling looks sorted, with the Indian quartet living to the expectations. ALSO READ: IPL 2023: Jaiswal, Padikkal keep RR's playoff hopes alive in thrilling win; PBKS officially out With nothing to lose in their final league game this season, DC will come all guns blazing and put up a show worth remembering. On the other hand, Chennai Super Kings have everything to play for, as the second spot on the points table is up for grabs. The MS Dhoni-led side had suffered jitters lately, but with the confident unit at the helm, they can overturn their fortunes and head for another knockout stage finish in the IPL. While they also have a few issues to iron out, also with Ben Stokes firm to leave for England following this game, CSK might opt to play him ahead of under-fire Moeen Ali on the sluggish Delhi track. Besides, with Sri Lanka’s Maheesh Theekshana not performing lately, he could also get dropped for the English star, who is unlikely to bowl, as informed by coach Stephen Fleming. Once again, all eyes will be on Shivam Dube, who made this tournament his own with sublime form. On this small Delhi ground, lanky Dube will aim to smash longer sixes and push for a probable win. Result Prediction – While Delhi has nothing to fear, and with momentum on their side, they could upset Chennai and dent their chances of remaining in the top two on the points table. Predicted XIs of both sides - Delhi Capitals - David Warner, Prithvi Shaw, Phil Salt, Rilee Rossouw, Sarfaraz Khan, Yash Dhull, Axar Patel, Aman Khan, Kuldeep Yadav, Anrich Nortje, Ishant Sharma and Khaleel Ahmed Chennai Super Kings - Devon Conway, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ajinkya Rahane, Shivam Dube, Ambati Rayudu, Ben Stokes, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni, Deepak Chahar, Tushar Deshpande, Maheesh Theekshana and Matheesha Pathirana WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

IPL 2023, Match 67th: Delhi Capitals vs Chennai Super Kings - Match preview and result prediction

<p>Team India batter KL Rahul lauded legendary captain MS Dhoni and decoded his success. In a recent interaction, Rahul spoke at length about Dhoni's greatness and as a captain and revealed the reason behind his staggering success. Under Dhoni, India won all three major ICC titles, attained the No. 1 Test team ranking for the first time whereas he has also led the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to four IPL and two Champions League (CLT20) trophies.</p>

<p>“MS Dhoni was my first captain. I've seen how he has handled the team, the calmness and the things that he does behind the scenes. Building the relationship with each person is something I've learnt from him. You need to build a relationship where these boys will fight for you, and with you,” Rahul told YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia, more commonly known as&nbsp;<i>BeerBiceps.</i></p>

<h2><strong>'Every cricket lover's dream to be in the dressing room and be captained by MS Dhoni'</strong></h2>

<p>The versatile Indian batter Rahul further opined, "I've realised much later, once when he retired and now he's not part of dressing room, I realised the presence of that man and the greatness that was a part of him. It's probably every cricket lover's dream to be in the dressing room and be captained by MS Dhoni. He's very simple in his approach, what you see is what you get. Even on the field, he is very calm. It's not just that he's being that way. He's very balanced in everything that he does."</p>

<p>"He has ways of building a relationship with each person. The bond that he creates... he has his own way. And he will know what's happening with each individual, personally and in his game. He knows everything about everybody, and that's what made him such a great leader."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-playoffs-qualification-scenario-for-seven-teams-in-contention-for-remaining-three-spots-593580">EXPLAINED: IPL 2023 - Playoffs qualification chances of 7 teams for remaining 3 spots</a></strong></p>

<p>“He said this to me a lot of times... trust your gut as a captain. That's something he did, as a leader and as a person in general. The first thought that you get, you always question it, but he never questioned it. If he had a gut feeling about a certain thing, he would never try to question it or second-guess it. He did it, whether it went well or didn't go well. That's what helped him in a lot of ways. That's why he was unorthodox in a lot of ways, people didn't understand at the time but he trusted his gut feeling. That's why he got results too,” Rahul added.</p>

<p>At present, Rahul is out of cricketing action after suffering an injury in IPL 2023. His franchise Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are close to attaining a playoff berth whereas Dhoni-led CSK are a spot above Lucknow, in the second position, and also aiming to finish in the top-two to feature in Qualifier 1 of IPL 2023 playoffs.</p>

<p>At 41, Dhoni continues to be a huge source of inspiration for cricketers around the globe due to his unorthodox wicketkeeping, finishing skills, captaincy and overall contribution to Indian cricket. It is widely speculated that Dhoni is playing his last IPL season and will retire after the ongoing edition.</p>


Team India batter KL Rahul lauded legendary captain MS Dhoni and decoded his success. In a recent interaction, Rahul spoke at length about Dhoni's greatness and as a captain and revealed the reason behind his staggering success.

Team India batter KL Rahul lauded legendary captain MS Dhoni and decoded his success. In a recent interaction, Rahul spoke at length about Dhoni's greatness and as a captain and revealed the reason behind his staggering success. Under Dhoni, India won all three major ICC titles, attained the No. 1 Test team ranking for the first time whereas he has also led the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to four IPL and two Champions League (CLT20) trophies. “MS Dhoni was my first captain. I've seen how he has handled the team, the calmness and the things that he does behind the scenes. Building the relationship with each person is something I've learnt from him. You need to build a relationship where these boys will fight for you, and with you,” Rahul told YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia, more commonly known as BeerBiceps. 'Every cricket lover's dream to be in the dressing room and be captained by MS Dhoni' The versatile Indian batter Rahul further opined, "I've realised much later, once when he retired and now he's not part of dressing room, I realised the presence of that man and the greatness that was a part of him. It's probably every cricket lover's dream to be in the dressing room and be captained by MS Dhoni. He's very simple in his approach, what you see is what you get. Even on the field, he is very calm. It's not just that he's being that way. He's very balanced in everything that he does." "He has ways of building a relationship with each person. The bond that he creates... he has his own way. And he will know what's happening with each individual, personally and in his game. He knows everything about everybody, and that's what made him such a great leader." Also Read: EXPLAINED: IPL 2023 - Playoffs qualification chances of 7 teams for remaining 3 spots “He said this to me a lot of times... trust your gut as a captain. That's something he did, as a leader and as a person in general. The first thought that you get, you always question it, but he never questioned it. If he had a gut feeling about a certain thing, he would never try to question it or second-guess it. He did it, whether it went well or didn't go well. That's what helped him in a lot of ways. That's why he was unorthodox in a lot of ways, people didn't understand at the time but he trusted his gut feeling. That's why he got results too,” Rahul added. At present, Rahul is out of cricketing action after suffering an injury in IPL 2023. His franchise Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are close to attaining a playoff berth whereas Dhoni-led CSK are a spot above Lucknow, in the second position, and also aiming to finish in the top-two to feature in Qualifier 1 of IPL 2023 playoffs. At 41, Dhoni continues to be a huge source of inspiration for cricketers around the globe due to his unorthodox wicketkeeping, finishing skills, captaincy and overall contribution to Indian cricket. It is widely speculated that Dhoni is playing his last IPL season and will retire after the ongoing edition.

'He trusted his...': KL Rahul decodes legendary captain MS Dhoni's success

<p>The IPL 2023 edition has been a huge hit. Every year, the league stage goes down to the wire. Often,&nbsp;teams are seen fighting hard for one, or more, remaining playoffs spots till the last day of the league games. This year, the defending champions, Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans (GT), remain the only side to have booked a slot in the playoffs, having ensured a top-two finish as well. However,&nbsp;as many as seven franchises remain in the fray to end with the remaining three spots with only four days left in the league stage.</p>

<p>To date, Delhi Capitals (DC) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) remain the only two teams out of this year's edition. So far, 64 out of the 70 league games have been done and dusted -- i.e. 91.42% -- but Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Mumbai Indians (MI), Rajasthan Royals (RR), Punjab Kings (PBKS), Royal Challengers Bangalore&nbsp;(RCB), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and&nbsp;Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are still competing to enter the&nbsp;last four.</p>

<p>On Wednesday (May 17), David Warner-led DC franchise defeated PBKS by 15 runs, in match 64, to not only take Shikhar Dhawan &amp; Co. closer to early elimination but further complicate the playoffs race.</p>

<p><strong>Here's what remaining seven teams have to do to grab the&nbsp;three available playoff tickets and join Hardik-led GT -</strong></p>

<p><strong>Chennai Super Kings: </strong>MS Dhoni's Yellow Army will confirm a place in the last four with a win over DC in their last league game on Saturday (May 20) in New Delhi. They can even progress ahead without adding to their points tally (15) if&nbsp;RCB or MI lose at least one of their remaining games.</p>

<p><strong>Lucknow Super Giants:</strong>&nbsp;Krunal Pandya's LSG won a crucial home game, on Tuesday (May 17), versus MI. Thus, they are also in a safe position compared to other teams. A win will confirm a playoff berth for them and they can even go ahead with a loss but will need MI or RCB to lose one game, at least.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Mumbai Indians:</strong> The five-time champions will secure a berth in the last four with a win over&nbsp;SRH in their last match and if RCB lose at least one of their last two league fixtures.</p>

<p><strong>Royal Challengers Bangalore:</strong> The Virat Kohli-starrer RCB can go ahead with wins in their remaining two games. If the three-time runners-up lose one, it will help CSK and LSG -- as stated above -- but the Bengaluru-based team will have to depend on how MI, KKR, RR, and PBKS fare in their last match. As of now, they have a healthy Net Run Rate (NRR) than MI, RR, KKR and PBKS at +0.166.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-delhi-capitals-hurt-punjab-kings-play-off-chances-with-15-run-win-593421">IPL 2023: Delhi Capitals hurt Punjab Kings' playoff chances with 15-run win</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Rajasthan Royals:</strong> The Sanju Samson-led Royals have certainly lost the plot after a brilliant start (with four wins from their first five fixtures). They are left with one more game, versus PBKS on Friday (May 19) in Dharamshala. If they earn a massive victory and MI, RCB and KKR lose their remaining games, they can still enter the playoffs.</p>

<p><strong>Kolkata Knight Riders:</strong> The two-time winners still have an outside chance to feature in the last four. If they get the better of LSG by a handsome margin, they can move past MI and then hope for MI and RCB to&nbsp;lose&nbsp;their remaining encounters. Their journey to the playoffs is more complicated as they will still have to rely on the outcome of the PBKS-RR face-off. For Rana &amp; Co.'s progression, they will pray for Punjab's close win over the Royals or for the game to end in a draw.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Punjab Kings:</strong>&nbsp;Punjab have made life much difficult for them with a loss to Warner &amp; Co. in Dharamshala. They, however, remain alive in the playoffs race by the barest of margins. They need to beat RR convincingly and hope for the likes of&nbsp;MI, RCB, and KKR to concede their remaining games.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-from-powerplay-basher-to-able-enforcer-yashasvi-jaiswals-ipl-2023-success-decoded-593313">Explained: From powerplay basher to able enforcer! Yashasvi Jaiswal's IPL 2023 success decoded</a></strong></p>

<p>If this happens, MI and PBKS will end at 14 points each whereas&nbsp;RCB, KKR, and RR will finish&nbsp;dozen points apiece. Thus, NRR will come into play between Mumbai and Punjab for one to join the playoffs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Currently, GT are set to play the Qualifier 1, in Chennai. The likes of CSK and Lucknow have a great chance to join the last four whereas one among MI and RCB is likely to make the cut as well. Nonetheless, IPL 2023 has pulled off some big surprises already and, hence, anything is possible in the remaining four days of the league games.</p>

<p>On Thursday (May 18), the Faf du Plessis-led Bengaluru franchise will lock horns with the bottom-ranked SRH in Hyderabad in match 65.</p>

<p>Needless to say, all other teams will also have an eye on the encounter.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The IPL 2023 edition has been a huge hit. Every year, the league stage goes down to the wire. Often, teams are seen fighting hard for one, or more, remaining playoffs spots till the last day of the league games.

The IPL 2023 edition has been a huge hit. Every year, the league stage goes down to the wire. Often, teams are seen fighting hard for one, or more, remaining playoffs spots till the last day of the league games. This year, the defending champions, Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans (GT), remain the only side to have booked a slot in the playoffs, having ensured a top-two finish as well. However, as many as seven franchises remain in the fray to end with the remaining three spots with only four days left in the league stage. To date, Delhi Capitals (DC) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) remain the only two teams out of this year's edition. So far, 64 out of the 70 league games have been done and dusted -- i.e. 91.42% -- but Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Mumbai Indians (MI), Rajasthan Royals (RR), Punjab Kings (PBKS), Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are still competing to enter the last four. On Wednesday (May 17), David Warner-led DC franchise defeated PBKS by 15 runs, in match 64, to not only take Shikhar Dhawan & Co. closer to early elimination but further complicate the playoffs race. Here's what remaining seven teams have to do to grab the three available playoff tickets and join Hardik-led GT - Chennai Super Kings: MS Dhoni's Yellow Army will confirm a place in the last four with a win over DC in their last league game on Saturday (May 20) in New Delhi. They can even progress ahead without adding to their points tally (15) if RCB or MI lose at least one of their remaining games. Lucknow Super Giants: Krunal Pandya's LSG won a crucial home game, on Tuesday (May 17), versus MI. Thus, they are also in a safe position compared to other teams. A win will confirm a playoff berth for them and they can even go ahead with a loss but will need MI or RCB to lose one game, at least. Mumbai Indians: The five-time champions will secure a berth in the last four with a win over SRH in their last match and if RCB lose at least one of their last two league fixtures. Royal Challengers Bangalore: The Virat Kohli-starrer RCB can go ahead with wins in their remaining two games. If the three-time runners-up lose one, it will help CSK and LSG -- as stated above -- but the Bengaluru-based team will have to depend on how MI, KKR, RR, and PBKS fare in their last match. As of now, they have a healthy Net Run Rate (NRR) than MI, RR, KKR and PBKS at +0.166. Also Read: IPL 2023: Delhi Capitals hurt Punjab Kings' playoff chances with 15-run win Rajasthan Royals: The Sanju Samson-led Royals have certainly lost the plot after a brilliant start (with four wins from their first five fixtures). They are left with one more game, versus PBKS on Friday (May 19) in Dharamshala. If they earn a massive victory and MI, RCB and KKR lose their remaining games, they can still enter the playoffs. Kolkata Knight Riders: The two-time winners still have an outside chance to feature in the last four. If they get the better of LSG by a handsome margin, they can move past MI and then hope for MI and RCB to lose their remaining encounters. Their journey to the playoffs is more complicated as they will still have to rely on the outcome of the PBKS-RR face-off. For Rana & Co.'s progression, they will pray for Punjab's close win over the Royals or for the game to end in a draw. Punjab Kings: Punjab have made life much difficult for them with a loss to Warner & Co. in Dharamshala. They, however, remain alive in the playoffs race by the barest of margins. They need to beat RR convincingly and hope for the likes of MI, RCB, and KKR to concede their remaining games. Also Read: Explained: From powerplay basher to able enforcer! Yashasvi Jaiswal's IPL 2023 success decoded If this happens, MI and PBKS will end at 14 points each whereas RCB, KKR, and RR will finish dozen points apiece. Thus, NRR will come into play between Mumbai and Punjab for one to join the playoffs. Currently, GT are set to play the Qualifier 1, in Chennai. The likes of CSK and Lucknow have a great chance to join the last four whereas one among MI and RCB is likely to make the cut as well. Nonetheless, IPL 2023 has pulled off some big surprises already and, hence, anything is possible in the remaining four days of the league games. On Thursday (May 18), the Faf du Plessis-led Bengaluru franchise will lock horns with the bottom-ranked SRH in Hyderabad in match 65. Needless to say, all other teams will also have an eye on the encounter.

EXPLAINED: IPL 2023 - Playoffs qualification chances of 7 teams for remaining 3 spots

<p>MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) lost match 61 of the IPL 2023 edition as the four-time winners went down to the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by six wickets, at home, on Sunday evening (May 14). Despite the loss, the Yellow Army remain at the second spot -- with 15 points from 13 games -- and are expected to reach the playoffs. After the loss, CSK took a lap at the ground to acknowledge their ardent fans for their constant support as it was their last league game at home.</p>

<p>After the lap taken by Dhoni &amp; Co., talks regarding the 41-year-old's IPL future once again commenced in the cricketing world. The CSK skipper has not said anything about his IPL future but it is widely believed that he is playing his last season. Thus, former England captain-turned-commentator Kevin Pietersen joined the bandwagon and spoke at length on Dhoni's IPL future. He believes that he will be extremely surprised if Dhoni retires after the 2023 edition.</p>

<p>"I was there for Dhoni’s lap of honour on Sunday, and it was incredible to see how the stadium stayed completely full. I'd be extremely surprised if this is his last season. I think this impact player rule actually helps him tremendously, where he can keep for 20 overs and bat wherever he wants to bat,” Pietersen wrote in his column for Betway.</p>

<p>He further asserted, "He makes the team better with the decisions he makes as a captain, and his keeping has been tremendous. It’s not like he takes a batting position up, because he tends to come in at seven, eight or nine to whack a few deliveries."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-virender-sehwag-urges-mi-to-make-suryakumar-yadav-permanent-at-no-3-spot-592958">IPL 2023: Virender Sehwag urges MI to make Suryakumar Yadav permanent at No. 3</a></strong></p>

<p>Pietersen added, "He’ll have the opportunity for eight or nine months of rest, sort his knee out, and get himself fit and ready for another season. I&nbsp;hope it's not the last we see of Dhoni, and I know everybody in the country would want him to play another season."</p>

<p>CSK will now travel to the national capital to take on the hosts Delhi Capitals (DC) in their last league game. They will aim for a win to ensure a top-two finish in the points table. Qualifier 1 and the Eliminator will take place in Chennai whereas Ahmedabad will host Qualifier 2 and the final, on May 28.</p>


MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) lost match 61 of the IPL 2023 edition as the four-time winners went down to the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by six wickets, at home, on Sunday evening (May 14).

MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) lost match 61 of the IPL 2023 edition as the four-time winners went down to the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by six wickets, at home, on Sunday evening (May 14). Despite the loss, the Yellow Army remain at the second spot -- with 15 points from 13 games -- and are expected to reach the playoffs. After the loss, CSK took a lap at the ground to acknowledge their ardent fans for their constant support as it was their last league game at home. After the lap taken by Dhoni & Co., talks regarding the 41-year-old's IPL future once again commenced in the cricketing world. The CSK skipper has not said anything about his IPL future but it is widely believed that he is playing his last season. Thus, former England captain-turned-commentator Kevin Pietersen joined the bandwagon and spoke at length on Dhoni's IPL future. He believes that he will be extremely surprised if Dhoni retires after the 2023 edition. "I was there for Dhoni’s lap of honour on Sunday, and it was incredible to see how the stadium stayed completely full. I'd be extremely surprised if this is his last season. I think this impact player rule actually helps him tremendously, where he can keep for 20 overs and bat wherever he wants to bat,” Pietersen wrote in his column for Betway. He further asserted, "He makes the team better with the decisions he makes as a captain, and his keeping has been tremendous. It’s not like he takes a batting position up, because he tends to come in at seven, eight or nine to whack a few deliveries." Also Read: IPL 2023: Virender Sehwag urges MI to make Suryakumar Yadav permanent at No. 3 Pietersen added, "He’ll have the opportunity for eight or nine months of rest, sort his knee out, and get himself fit and ready for another season. I hope it's not the last we see of Dhoni, and I know everybody in the country would want him to play another season." CSK will now travel to the national capital to take on the hosts Delhi Capitals (DC) in their last league game. They will aim for a win to ensure a top-two finish in the points table. Qualifier 1 and the Eliminator will take place in Chennai whereas Ahmedabad will host Qualifier 2 and the final, on May 28.

IPL 2023: 'Would be extremely surprised' - Kevin Pietersen shares his take on MS Dhoni's future

<p>Chennai Super Kings’ superstar recruit Ben Stokes continues to struggle while bowling as coach Stephen Fleming rules out his inclusion in the final league game against Delhi Capitals on May 20th. Stokes, who last played for CSK on April 3rd, remains on the bench even after being deemed fit for selection last week. As the 2023 Ashes are fast approaching, England’s Test captain will aim to fulfil his promise of being the ‘fourth seamer’ in the side.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, following CSK’s latest loss at the hands of Kolkata Knight Riders in Chepauk, head coach Stephen Fleming revealed Moeen Ali is still the first-choice pick for the away clash in Delhi. Fleming said it’s not CSK’s thing to make changes to the XI after a loss, as they plan to stick with an unchanged side against DC.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bought for INR 16.25 crores (£1.6 million approx.) during the December auction last year, Stokes earlier dealt with his prolonged knee injury, and while he attained fitness in a few weeks, he suffered another setback that ruled him out for an extended period.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-not-panicking-will-help-us-nullify-englands-bazball-approach-says-australia-spin-great-nathan-lyon-592639">Ashes: Not panicking will help us nullify England's Bazball approach, says Australia spin great Nathan Lyon</a></p>

<p>Elaborating on how he is dealing with them right now, Fleming said Stokes' bowling remains a concern while he is being seen as a ‘batting cover’.</p>

<p>"Ben's ability to bowl overs at the moment is still a bit of a challenge, but he's there as that batting cover," Fleming said. "But with Moeen bowling well in good conditions - we go to Delhi [next], which has been turning - we think the balance of the side has been right.</p>

<p>"And look, we're second on the table, so it's not our style to chop and change just because we've had a loss where things didn't go our way. We won't do that. We might tinker with it but we're very focused on getting the right team for Delhi," the head coach added.</p>

<p>However, with Stokes earlier claiming that he would like to return home ahead of the long summer, which starts with the one-off Test against Ireland at Lord’s that begins on June 1st and then the Ashes, he is expected to remain in India at least until CSK’s final league game.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Though no official call on by when Stokes is expected to leave/ will leave for England, the ECB selectors are due to meet in the coming days to name the squads for the initial Ashes Tests, which begins with the first game in Edgbaston on June 16th.&nbsp;</p>


Chennai Super Kings’ superstar recruit Ben Stokes continues to struggle while bowling as coach Stephen Fleming rules out his inclusion in the final league game against Delhi Capitals on May 20th.

Chennai Super Kings’ superstar recruit Ben Stokes continues to struggle while bowling as coach Stephen Fleming rules out his inclusion in the final league game against Delhi Capitals on May 20th. Stokes, who last played for CSK on April 3rd, remains on the bench even after being deemed fit for selection last week. As the 2023 Ashes are fast approaching, England’s Test captain will aim to fulfil his promise of being the ‘fourth seamer’ in the side. Meanwhile, following CSK’s latest loss at the hands of Kolkata Knight Riders in Chepauk, head coach Stephen Fleming revealed Moeen Ali is still the first-choice pick for the away clash in Delhi. Fleming said it’s not CSK’s thing to make changes to the XI after a loss, as they plan to stick with an unchanged side against DC. Bought for INR 16.25 crores (£1.6 million approx.) during the December auction last year, Stokes earlier dealt with his prolonged knee injury, and while he attained fitness in a few weeks, he suffered another setback that ruled him out for an extended period. ALSO READ: Ashes: Not panicking will help us nullify England's Bazball approach, says Australia spin great Nathan Lyon Elaborating on how he is dealing with them right now, Fleming said Stokes' bowling remains a concern while he is being seen as a ‘batting cover’. "Ben's ability to bowl overs at the moment is still a bit of a challenge, but he's there as that batting cover," Fleming said. "But with Moeen bowling well in good conditions - we go to Delhi [next], which has been turning - we think the balance of the side has been right. "And look, we're second on the table, so it's not our style to chop and change just because we've had a loss where things didn't go our way. We won't do that. We might tinker with it but we're very focused on getting the right team for Delhi," the head coach added. However, with Stokes earlier claiming that he would like to return home ahead of the long summer, which starts with the one-off Test against Ireland at Lord’s that begins on June 1st and then the Ashes, he is expected to remain in India at least until CSK’s final league game. Though no official call on by when Stokes is expected to leave/ will leave for England, the ECB selectors are due to meet in the coming days to name the squads for the initial Ashes Tests, which begins with the first game in Edgbaston on June 16th.

IPL 2023: Struggling CSK recruit Ben Stokes eyes 'filler' role as fourth bowler during home Ashes

<p>MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) lost their last home game of IPL 2023 to two-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in match 61 on Sunday evening (May 14), at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. With a win, CSK would have qualified for the playoffs but will now have to wait for another game, their last league stage encounter, to book a slot in the top four.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After CSK's last home game in the league stage, Dhoni &amp; Co. took a lap around the ground for their ardent fans who have turned up in large numbers at the Chepauk this season. The main reason for CSK fans coming to the stadium was that they believe this will be Dhoni's last IPL season.</p>

<p>In this regard, former Indian batter Mohammed Kaif feels the ex-Indian captain is surely playing his last IPL edition and he has dropped enough hints as well.</p>

<p>"I think MSD has given enough hints that this is his last IPL. He's keeping the world guessing and that's been his nature. But I have this intuition that Dhoni will not be playing the IPL next year," Kaif said while speaking on Star Sports' Cricket Live.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-we-believe-csk-ceo-predicts-ms-dhonis-future-in-cash-rich-league-592582">IPL 2023: 'We believe...' - CSK CEO predicts MS Dhoni's future in cash-rich league</a></strong></p>

<p>On the other hand, CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan believes Dhoni will return in IPL 2024. In a video shared by CSK's official Twitter handle, he said, "We believe MS Dhoni is going to play next season as well, so I hope fans will continue to support us like every time."</p>

<p>At present, CSK occupy the second spot in the IPL 2023 points table with 15 points from 13 games. They will now take on the bottom-ranked, and already-eliminated, Delhi Capitals (DC), in the national capital on May 20 (Saturday) in a bid to enter the playoffs with a top-two finish.</p>

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MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) lost their last home game of IPL 2023 to two-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in match 61 on Sunday evening (May 14), at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai.

MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) lost their last home game of IPL 2023 to two-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in match 61 on Sunday evening (May 14), at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. With a win, CSK would have qualified for the playoffs but will now have to wait for another game, their last league stage encounter, to book a slot in the top four. After CSK's last home game in the league stage, Dhoni & Co. took a lap around the ground for their ardent fans who have turned up in large numbers at the Chepauk this season. The main reason for CSK fans coming to the stadium was that they believe this will be Dhoni's last IPL season. In this regard, former Indian batter Mohammed Kaif feels the ex-Indian captain is surely playing his last IPL edition and he has dropped enough hints as well. "I think MSD has given enough hints that this is his last IPL. He's keeping the world guessing and that's been his nature. But I have this intuition that Dhoni will not be playing the IPL next year," Kaif said while speaking on Star Sports' Cricket Live. Also Read: IPL 2023: 'We believe...' - CSK CEO predicts MS Dhoni's future in cash-rich league On the other hand, CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan believes Dhoni will return in IPL 2024. In a video shared by CSK's official Twitter handle, he said, "We believe MS Dhoni is going to play next season as well, so I hope fans will continue to support us like every time." At present, CSK occupy the second spot in the IPL 2023 points table with 15 points from 13 games. They will now take on the bottom-ranked, and already-eliminated, Delhi Capitals (DC), in the national capital on May 20 (Saturday) in a bid to enter the playoffs with a top-two finish. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

MS Dhoni has given enough hints that this is his last season: Md Kaif on CSK skipper's IPL future

<p>MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) lost to the two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by six wickets in match 61 of the IPL 2023 edition on Sunday evening (May 14) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. With this loss, CSK could not confirm their spot in the playoffs and will now have to wait for their last league stage game versus Delhi Capitals (DC) in New Delhi to enter the last four.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After their KKR loss, Dhoni-led CSK took a lap around the ground to acknowledge the fans who came in large numbers in the franchise's last home game of the season. While CSK are likely to end in the top two and, in that case, will return home for Qualifier 1 -- or even if they finish third or fourth and play the Eliminator -- the players, however,&nbsp;took a lap to thank their ardent fans. Fans have come in large numbers in every CSK home game, mainly as they believe this is Dhoni's last IPL season.</p>

<p>After the KKR match, CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan gave a massive update on Dhoni's IPL future. According to the CSK official, Dhoni is likely to feature in IPL 2024 as well.&nbsp;"We believe MS Dhoni is going to play next season as well, so I hope fans will continue to support us like every time," Viswanathan said.</p>

<section>
<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-sunil-gavaskar-asks-ms-dhoni-to-sign-his-shirt-after-csk-vs-kkr-tie-watch-592483">IPL 2023: Sunil Gavaskar asks MS Dhoni to sign his shirt after CSK vs KKR tie - WATCH</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A night of gratitude and infinite <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Yellove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Yellove</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YellorukkumThanks?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YellorukkumThanks</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> 🦁💛 <a href="https://t.co/1FTdgN7Z2c">pic.twitter.com/1FTdgN7Z2c</a></p>
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/1657815905118883845?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>CSK could have qualified for the playoffs with a win over KKR. Nonetheless, they lost their first home game to the former IPL champions after 11 years on Sunday evening. Opting to bat first, the home side managed to post 144-5 but could not defend the target as KKR skipper Nitish Rana (57 not out) and in-form batter Rinku Singh (54) helped their team chase&nbsp;down the score with six wickets&nbsp;in hand, in 18.3 overs.</p>

<p>CSK occupy the second spot in the points table, with 15 points from 13 games.</p>

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MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) lost to the two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by six wickets in match 61 of the IPL 2023 edition on Sunday evening (May 14) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai.

MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) lost to the two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by six wickets in match 61 of the IPL 2023 edition on Sunday evening (May 14) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. With this loss, CSK could not confirm their spot in the playoffs and will now have to wait for their last league stage game versus Delhi Capitals (DC) in New Delhi to enter the last four. After their KKR loss, Dhoni-led CSK took a lap around the ground to acknowledge the fans who came in large numbers in the franchise's last home game of the season. While CSK are likely to end in the top two and, in that case, will return home for Qualifier 1 -- or even if they finish third or fourth and play the Eliminator -- the players, however, took a lap to thank their ardent fans. Fans have come in large numbers in every CSK home game, mainly as they believe this is Dhoni's last IPL season. After the KKR match, CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan gave a massive update on Dhoni's IPL future. According to the CSK official, Dhoni is likely to feature in IPL 2024 as well. "We believe MS Dhoni is going to play next season as well, so I hope fans will continue to support us like every time," Viswanathan said. Also Read: IPL 2023: Sunil Gavaskar asks MS Dhoni to sign his shirt after CSK vs KKR tie - WATCH A night of gratitude and infinite #Yellove #YellorukkumThanks #WhistlePodu 🦁💛 pic.twitter.com/1FTdgN7Z2c — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) May 14, 2023 × CSK could have qualified for the playoffs with a win over KKR. Nonetheless, they lost their first home game to the former IPL champions after 11 years on Sunday evening. Opting to bat first, the home side managed to post 144-5 but could not defend the target as KKR skipper Nitish Rana (57 not out) and in-form batter Rinku Singh (54) helped their team chase down the score with six wickets in hand, in 18.3 overs. CSK occupy the second spot in the points table, with 15 points from 13 games. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

IPL 2023: 'We believe...' - CSK CEO predicts MS Dhoni's future in cash-rich league

<p>Chennai Super Kings have found their mojo after finishing at the bottom the previous season. So far, in IPL 2023, they are second on the points table with 15 points from 12 matches with just two games left. While they are more or less cruising ahead to the next round, for a top-two finish, they must win their remaining two matches, with one being against KKR at home on Sunday night.</p>

<p>Ahead of the high-octane clash, cricketer-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra feels KKR is the only side who can challenge the high-flying CSK at their home venue. MS Dhoni-led side had a dream run playing in Chepauk this season; barring two close losses against Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings, they found success in every game, and going by the momentum they have on their side, beating the struggling KKR shouldn’t be too difficult.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kkr-must-look-beyond-andre-russell-sunil-narine-for-greater-good-feels-ipl-legend-yusuf-pathan-592319">KKR must look beyond Andre Russell, Sunil Narine for greater good, feels IPL legend Yusuf Pathan</a></p>

<p>Even earlier this season at Eden Gardens, Ajinkya Rahane’s masterful inning helped CSK clinch a tight win. Meanwhile, in the return leg, Chopra feels KKR have all the boxes ticked, and can upset CSK's chances of finishing in the top two.</p>

<p>At Chepauk, where spinners often get good purchases, the trio of Suyash Sharma, Varun Chakravarthy and Sunil Narine could trouble the in-form CSK top order.</p>

<p>"A potential banana skin for Chennai because if there is one team that can actually challenge them on that ground, that's Kolkata. Suyash Sharma, Varun Chakravarthy, Sunil Narine and a bit of Nitish Rana, so you have got a lot of spin," Aakash said on the 'AakashVani' show on JioCinema.</p>

<p>Aakash further said if a good track is on offer in Chennai, KKR’s middle order of Venkatesh Iyer, skipper Nitish Rana with finishers Rinku Singh and Andre Russell could come in handy. He feels KKR are a proper side, and if they include Anukul Roy for this particular clash, they could be running a famous win.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In batting, you have got two overseas openers, but after that, Venkatesh Iyer, Nitish Rana, Rinku Singh and Andre Russell, who is back in form. They are a proper team. They can even play Anukul Roy here. I feel you shouldn't take Kolkata lightly. Make a slightly good pitch on which a lot of runs can be scored," Aakash added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, as things stand, KKR are eighth on the points table with just five wins from 12 games, with their chances of reaching the playoffs look all but bleak.</p>


Chennai Super Kings have found their mojo after finishing at the bottom the previous season. So far, in IPL 2023, they are second on the points table with 15 points from 12 matches with just two games left.

Chennai Super Kings have found their mojo after finishing at the bottom the previous season. So far, in IPL 2023, they are second on the points table with 15 points from 12 matches with just two games left. While they are more or less cruising ahead to the next round, for a top-two finish, they must win their remaining two matches, with one being against KKR at home on Sunday night. Ahead of the high-octane clash, cricketer-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra feels KKR is the only side who can challenge the high-flying CSK at their home venue. MS Dhoni-led side had a dream run playing in Chepauk this season; barring two close losses against Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings, they found success in every game, and going by the momentum they have on their side, beating the struggling KKR shouldn’t be too difficult. ALSO READ: KKR must look beyond Andre Russell, Sunil Narine for greater good, feels IPL legend Yusuf Pathan Even earlier this season at Eden Gardens, Ajinkya Rahane’s masterful inning helped CSK clinch a tight win. Meanwhile, in the return leg, Chopra feels KKR have all the boxes ticked, and can upset CSK's chances of finishing in the top two. At Chepauk, where spinners often get good purchases, the trio of Suyash Sharma, Varun Chakravarthy and Sunil Narine could trouble the in-form CSK top order. "A potential banana skin for Chennai because if there is one team that can actually challenge them on that ground, that's Kolkata. Suyash Sharma, Varun Chakravarthy, Sunil Narine and a bit of Nitish Rana, so you have got a lot of spin," Aakash said on the 'AakashVani' show on JioCinema. Aakash further said if a good track is on offer in Chennai, KKR’s middle order of Venkatesh Iyer, skipper Nitish Rana with finishers Rinku Singh and Andre Russell could come in handy. He feels KKR are a proper side, and if they include Anukul Roy for this particular clash, they could be running a famous win. "In batting, you have got two overseas openers, but after that, Venkatesh Iyer, Nitish Rana, Rinku Singh and Andre Russell, who is back in form. They are a proper team. They can even play Anukul Roy here. I feel you shouldn't take Kolkata lightly. Make a slightly good pitch on which a lot of runs can be scored," Aakash added. Meanwhile, as things stand, KKR are eighth on the points table with just five wins from 12 games, with their chances of reaching the playoffs look all but bleak.

IPL 2023: Only Kolkata can stop Chennai at Chepauk, says Aakash Chopra ahead of high-octane clash

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidX5dhhdK4B4RW" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>There is no match to MS Dhoni’s craze, be it in Chennai or any other part of the country. More so that fans present inside the stadium wait for the batter who had come ahead of MS to get out so that they can watch one glimpse of the legend himself. Ravindra Jadeja - India and CSK star all-rounder often hears chants of MS Dhoni while batting and has even heard fans asking him to get out early.</p>

<p>After the win against Delhi Capitals in Chepauk on Wednesday, Jadeja, while attending the post-match presser, revealed the same, saying,</p>

<p>“It becomes really hard when you are batting in the middle order of a team where you have MS Dhoni. No matter, whether CSK playing at its home ground or not, a huge crowd are coming just to see one glimpse of legend MS Dhoni,” Jadeja said after the DC game.</p>

<p>“Whenever any player comes to bat ahead of MS Dhoni, fans pray for the player’s dismissal so that Dhoni can come to bat in the field,” the left-arm all-rounder added.</p>

<p>Speaking on often hearing the same chants this season irrespective of the venue, Jadeja said,</p>

<p>“I keep hearing Mahi bhai’s chants. If I bat higher, then the crowd will wait for me to get out. As long as the team wins, I am happy,” he added.</p>

<p><strong>CSK inch closer to a playoff berth</strong></p>

<p>Jadeja has been CSK’s best performer, and his numbers speak for him. While he hasn’t been among runs this season, his fielding and bowling exploits have made the right noise in IPL 2023. Even against Delhi Capitals on Wednesday, Jadeja scored 21 off 16 balls – hitting a boundary and a six and even picked Rilee Rossouw's wicket.</p>

<p>On a day when none of the batters could cross the 25-run-mark, Jadeja’s handy cameo counts for a lot. Even CSK’s head coach Stephen Fleming praised the side’s approach, which made the total of 166 as 175 or 180.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-stephen-fleming-happy-with-cameos-as-csk-inch-closer-to-playoff-qualification-following-dc-win-591230">IPL 2023: Stephen Fleming happy with 'cameos' as CSK inch closer to playoff qualification following DC win</a></p>

<p>On the other hand, the fans finally could witness MS Dhoni play more than a few balls as he arrived at the crease following Rayudu’s wicket in the 17th over. Though, as expected he took his time to settle down,&nbsp;<em>Thala,&nbsp;</em>as fans often call him, smashed left-armer Khaleel Ahmed for two sixes and a four in the penultimate over.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">DO NOT MISS!<br />
<br />
When <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> cut loose! 💪 💪<br />
<br />
Follow the match ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/soUtpXQjCX">https://t.co/soUtpXQjCX</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSKvDC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSKvDC</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a> <a href="https://t.co/kduRZ94eEk">pic.twitter.com/kduRZ94eEk</a></p>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1656328693499965440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Owing to overall performance, CSK beat CDC by 27 runs and inched closer to sealing the playoff berth.</p>

<p>In 12 matches, CSK have 15 points and need another three points to ensure a top-two finish.</p>


There is no match to MS Dhoni’s craze, be it in Chennai or any other part of the country. More so that fans present inside the stadium wait for the batter who had come ahead of MS to get out so that they can watch one glimpse of the legend himself.

There is no match to MS Dhoni’s craze, be it in Chennai or any other part of the country. More so that fans present inside the stadium wait for the batter who had come ahead of MS to get out so that they can watch one glimpse of the legend himself. Ravindra Jadeja - India and CSK star all-rounder often hears chants of MS Dhoni while batting and has even heard fans asking him to get out early. After the win against Delhi Capitals in Chepauk on Wednesday, Jadeja, while attending the post-match presser, revealed the same, saying, “It becomes really hard when you are batting in the middle order of a team where you have MS Dhoni. No matter, whether CSK playing at its home ground or not, a huge crowd are coming just to see one glimpse of legend MS Dhoni,” Jadeja said after the DC game. “Whenever any player comes to bat ahead of MS Dhoni, fans pray for the player’s dismissal so that Dhoni can come to bat in the field,” the left-arm all-rounder added. Speaking on often hearing the same chants this season irrespective of the venue, Jadeja said, “I keep hearing Mahi bhai’s chants. If I bat higher, then the crowd will wait for me to get out. As long as the team wins, I am happy,” he added. CSK inch closer to a playoff berth Jadeja has been CSK’s best performer, and his numbers speak for him. While he hasn’t been among runs this season, his fielding and bowling exploits have made the right noise in IPL 2023. Even against Delhi Capitals on Wednesday, Jadeja scored 21 off 16 balls – hitting a boundary and a six and even picked Rilee Rossouw's wicket. On a day when none of the batters could cross the 25-run-mark, Jadeja’s handy cameo counts for a lot. Even CSK’s head coach Stephen Fleming praised the side’s approach, which made the total of 166 as 175 or 180. ALSO READ: IPL 2023: Stephen Fleming happy with 'cameos' as CSK inch closer to playoff qualification following DC win On the other hand, the fans finally could witness MS Dhoni play more than a few balls as he arrived at the crease following Rayudu’s wicket in the 17th over. Though, as expected he took his time to settle down, Thala, as fans often call him, smashed left-armer Khaleel Ahmed for two sixes and a four in the penultimate over. DO NOT MISS! When @msdhoni cut loose! 💪 💪 Follow the match ▶️ https://t.co/soUtpXQjCX#TATAIPL | #CSKvDC | @ChennaiIPL pic.twitter.com/kduRZ94eEk — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) May 10, 2023 × Owing to overall performance, CSK beat CDC by 27 runs and inched closer to sealing the playoff berth. In 12 matches, CSK have 15 points and need another three points to ensure a top-two finish.

IPL 2023: 'Crowd wait for me to get out so that Dhoni can come and bat', reveals Ravindra Jadeja