Chennai won the toss and opted to bowl in the last league match of the eleventh edition of Indian Premier League at their ground - Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Pune - against Punjab on Sunday.

The clash is important for Punjab as they will have to register a win with a huge margin as their net run-rate reads a poor -0.490.

Punjab kicked-off the 2018 season with five wins out of their first six games but faltered in the business end of the league.

Now, Mumbai team has been kicked out of the play-off race by Delhi, Punjab's fight is with Rajasthan, hence, MS Dhoni-led team Chennai has nothing to lose, while Punjab will be out of the tournament if defeated.&nbsp;

Playing XI:

Punjab: Lokesh Rahul(w), Chris Gayle, Aaron Finch, David Miller, Karun Nair, Manoj Tiwary, Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin(c), Andrew Tye, Mohit Sharma, Ankit Rajpoot

Chennai: Faf du Plessis, Ambati Rayudu, Suresh Raina, MS Dhoni(w/c), Sam Billings, Dwayne Bravo, Ravindra Jadeja, Harbhajan Singh, Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar, Lungi Ngidi

Chennai have nothing to lose, while Punjab will be out of the tournament if defeated

Chennai won the toss and opted to bowl in the last league match of the eleventh edition of Indian Premier League at their ground - Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Pune - against Punjab on Sunday. The clash is important for Punjab as they will have to register a win with a huge margin as their net run-rate reads a poor -0.490. Punjab kicked-off the 2018 season with five wins out of their first six games but faltered in the business end of the league. Now, Mumbai team has been kicked out of the play-off race by Delhi, Punjab's fight is with Rajasthan, hence, MS Dhoni-led team Chennai has nothing to lose, while Punjab will be out of the tournament if defeated. Playing XI: Punjab: Lokesh Rahul(w), Chris Gayle, Aaron Finch, David Miller, Karun Nair, Manoj Tiwary, Axar Patel, Ravichandran Ashwin(c), Andrew Tye, Mohit Sharma, Ankit Rajpoot Chennai: Faf du Plessis, Ambati Rayudu, Suresh Raina, MS Dhoni(w/c), Sam Billings, Dwayne Bravo, Ravindra Jadeja, Harbhajan Singh, Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar, Lungi Ngidi

IPL 2018: MS Dhoni opts to field against Punjab

Chennai captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni is an expressionless man on the ground. Be it a bowler giving away big runs in an over to a fielder giving boundaries for singles, Dhoni always keeps it calm and cool.&nbsp

However, he also manages to lighten up the entire mood of the crowd in one go.&nbsp

The former Indian cricket team captain has attempted to fake a nap during a match and scared Ravindra Jadeja by a dummy throw, to leave the audience in splits.&nbsp 
&nbsp 
But this time it was different for spectators as Dhoni started laughing the moment Delhi skipper Shyeras Iyer flipped the coin at the toss ceremony.

It was a funny scenario as when flipped, the coin landed several feet away from where the two captains and the match officials were present.&nbsp

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a> Captain <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> wins the toss and elects to bowl first against <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiDaredevils?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DelhiDaredevils</a> at the Kotla.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DDvCSK?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DDvCSK</a> <a href="https://t.co/UR5PA5pRH5">pic.twitter.com/UR5PA5pRH5</a>
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Match referee Manu Nayyar, however, walked up to the spot and stated that Dhoni had won the toss.&nbsp

But, watching Dhoni laugh, even Iyer couldn’t control himself.

However, the match was finally clinched by Iyer-led team by 34 runs, ending the winning momentum of the 'Yellow Brigade'.&nbsp

Dhoni, too departed after scoring a sluggish 23-ball 17, which made him the fifth batsman after Suresh Raina, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Gautam Gambhir to notch up 6,000 runs in the shortest format of the game.

Watching Dhoni laugh, even Iyer couldn’t control himself.

Chennai captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni is an expressionless man on the ground. Be it a bowler giving away big runs in an over to a fielder giving boundaries for singles, Dhoni always keeps it calm and cool. However, he also manages to lighten up the entire mood of the crowd in one go. The former Indian cricket team captain has attempted to fake a nap during a match and scared Ravindra Jadeja by a dummy throw, to leave the audience in splits. But this time it was different for spectators as Dhoni started laughing the moment Delhi skipper Shyeras Iyer flipped the coin at the toss ceremony. It was a funny scenario as when flipped, the coin landed several feet away from where the two captains and the match officials were present. .@ChennaiIPL Captain @msdhoni wins the toss and elects to bowl first against @DelhiDaredevils at the Kotla.#DDvCSK pic.twitter.com/UR5PA5pRH5 — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) May 18, 2018 × Match referee Manu Nayyar, however, walked up to the spot and stated that Dhoni had won the toss. But, watching Dhoni laugh, even Iyer couldn’t control himself. However, the match was finally clinched by Iyer-led team by 34 runs, ending the winning momentum of the 'Yellow Brigade'. Dhoni, too departed after scoring a sluggish 23-ball 17, which made him the fifth batsman after Suresh Raina, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Gautam Gambhir to notch up 6,000 runs in the shortest format of the game.

Watch: Shyeras Iyer's act leaves MS Dhoni in splits on ground

Chennai failed to reach atop league's table as MS Dhoni-led Chennai team was defeated by already eliminated Delhi on Friday at Feroz Shah Kotla stadium and by handing over a tragic defeat to Chennai, team&nbspDelhi has managed to salvage its cricketing pride.

Earlier, MSD had won the toss and invited the host to bat first as the skipper Dhoni was suspicious that the pitch might deteriorate after some time.

Delhi, batting first put up a modest target of 163 runs which Chennai failed to achieve in 20 overs and lost the match by 34 runs.

While chasing, Chennai started off well as the opener Ambati Rayudu slammed half-century off 29 balls, on the other hand, another opener Shane Watson lost his wicket to Amit Mishra's tricky spin bowl after scoring just 14 runs.

Suresh Raina (15) and MS Dhoni (17) lost their wickets to &nbspSandeep Lamichhane and Trent Boult respectively. It was a good opportunity for the batsmen to prove their calibre by chasing the total but the "Yellow Brigade" lost it.

Unbeaten Ravindra Jadeja tried to push the run rate in the death over, he scored 27 crucial runs and held the inning on one side but other batsmen kept losing their wickets from the other side.

Trent Boult and Amit Mishra struck twice to restrict the Chennai team, also, young talent from Nepal Sandeep Lamichhane and Harshal Patel took one wicket each to help the bowling unit in defending the total.

In the first innings, Delhi's opener Prithvi Shaw and Shreyas Iyer scored 17 and 19 runs respectively.

Prithvi Shaw lost his wicket to Deepak Chahar and pacer Lungi Ngidi out bowled skipper Shreyas Iyer.

At number three, Rishabh Pant came in and scored 38 crucial runs for the team. Also, Vijay Shankar and Harshal Patel contributed with their bats to push the run rate and put up a decent total on the board.

Glenn Maxwell, who has been on and off throughout the tournament, again failed and scored only five runs.

For Chennai, Lungi Ngidi was proved most economical as he took two important wickets and other than that, Deepak Chahar, Ravindra Jadeja and Shardul Thakur got one wicket each.

Chennai failed to reach atop league's table as MS Dhoni-led Chennai team was defeated by already eliminated Delhi

Chennai failed to reach atop league's table as MS Dhoni-led Chennai team was defeated by already eliminated Delhi on Friday at Feroz Shah Kotla stadium and by handing over a tragic defeat to Chennai, team&nbspDelhi has managed to salvage its cricketing pride. Earlier, MSD had won the toss and invited the host to bat first as the skipper Dhoni was suspicious that the pitch might deteriorate after some time. Delhi, batting first put up a modest target of 163 runs which Chennai failed to achieve in 20 overs and lost the match by 34 runs. While chasing, Chennai started off well as the opener Ambati Rayudu slammed half-century off 29 balls, on the other hand, another opener Shane Watson lost his wicket to Amit Mishra's tricky spin bowl after scoring just 14 runs. Suresh Raina (15) and MS Dhoni (17) lost their wickets to &nbspSandeep Lamichhane and Trent Boult respectively. It was a good opportunity for the batsmen to prove their calibre by chasing the total but the "Yellow Brigade" lost it. Unbeaten Ravindra Jadeja tried to push the run rate in the death over, he scored 27 crucial runs and held the inning on one side but other batsmen kept losing their wickets from the other side. Trent Boult and Amit Mishra struck twice to restrict the Chennai team, also, young talent from Nepal Sandeep Lamichhane and Harshal Patel took one wicket each to help the bowling unit in defending the total. In the first innings, Delhi's opener Prithvi Shaw and Shreyas Iyer scored 17 and 19 runs respectively. Prithvi Shaw lost his wicket to Deepak Chahar and pacer Lungi Ngidi out bowled skipper Shreyas Iyer. At number three, Rishabh Pant came in and scored 38 crucial runs for the team. Also, Vijay Shankar and Harshal Patel contributed with their bats to push the run rate and put up a decent total on the board. Glenn Maxwell, who has been on and off throughout the tournament, again failed and scored only five runs. For Chennai, Lungi Ngidi was proved most economical as he took two important wickets and other than that, Deepak Chahar, Ravindra Jadeja and Shardul Thakur got one wicket each.

IPL 2018: Delhi beat Chennai by 34 runs to salvage cricketing pride

Shreyas Iyer-led Delhi has set 163-run target for MS Dhoni-led Chennai to win on Friday at Feroz Shah Kotla.

Earlier, MSD had won the toss and invited the host to bat first as the skipper Dhoni was suspicious that the pitch might deteriorate after some time.

For Delhi, opener Prithvi Shaw and Shreyas Iyer scored 17 and 19 runs respectively.

Prithvi Shaw lost his wicket to Deepak Chahar and pacer Lungi Ngidi out bowled skipper Shreyas Iyer.

At number three, Rishabh Pant came in and scored 38 crucial runs for the team. Also, Vijay Shankar and Harshal Patel contributed with their bats - scored 36 runs each - to push the run rate and put up a decent total on the board.

Glenn Maxwell, who has been on and off throughout the tournament, again failed and scored only five runs.

For Chennai, Lungi Ngidi was proved most economical as he took two important wickets and other than that, Deepak Chahar, Ravindra Jadeja and Shardul Thakur got one wicket each.

Shreyas Iyer-led Delhi set 163-run target for MS Dhoni-led Chennai; Rishabh Pant: 38, Vijay Shankar: 36 and Harshal Patel: 36

Shreyas Iyer-led Delhi has set 163-run target for MS Dhoni-led Chennai to win on Friday at Feroz Shah Kotla. Earlier, MSD had won the toss and invited the host to bat first as the skipper Dhoni was suspicious that the pitch might deteriorate after some time. For Delhi, opener Prithvi Shaw and Shreyas Iyer scored 17 and 19 runs respectively. Prithvi Shaw lost his wicket to Deepak Chahar and pacer Lungi Ngidi out bowled skipper Shreyas Iyer. At number three, Rishabh Pant came in and scored 38 crucial runs for the team. Also, Vijay Shankar and Harshal Patel contributed with their bats - scored 36 runs each - to push the run rate and put up a decent total on the board. Glenn Maxwell, who has been on and off throughout the tournament, again failed and scored only five runs. For Chennai, Lungi Ngidi was proved most economical as he took two important wickets and other than that, Deepak Chahar, Ravindra Jadeja and Shardul Thakur got one wicket each.

IPL 2018: Chennai need 163 runs to win against already-eliminated Delhi

Shreyas Iyer-led Delhi team will host MS Dhoni-led Chennai at Feroz Shah Kotla stadium on Friday, May 18.

Team Delhi has been eliminated and has only two games left in the tournament. On one hand, the team will look to salvage its cricketing pride and on the other hand, Chennai team will play to warm up for the play-off as they have already qualified in the play-offs.

Though Delhi did not qualify for the play-offs it is one of the best batting sides in the ongoing tournament but the bowling side suffered a lot and currently have the poorest economy rate which is 9.34.

The result of today's game will not affect the points table and it will be through joy for the Delhiites at Kotla stadium.

Both the teams have done remarkably well in the death overs and it is expected that both the teams will enter with the same squad.

Playing XI (TBC):

Delhi: Amit Mishra, Jason Roy, Trent Boult, Harshal Patel, Vijay Shankar, Shreyas Iyer (c), Junior Dala, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sandeep Lamichhane, Abhishek Sharma, Prithvi Shaw

Chennai: Harbhajan Singh, Shane Watson, Dwayne Bravo, MS Dhoni (c & wk), Suresh Raina, Ravindra Jadeja, Ambati Rayudu, David Willey, Deepak Chahar, Sam Billings, Shardul Thakur

&nbsp

Shreyas Iyer-led Delhi team will host MS Dhoni-led Chennai at Feroz Shah Kotla stadium

Shreyas Iyer-led Delhi team will host MS Dhoni-led Chennai at Feroz Shah Kotla stadium on Friday, May 18. Team Delhi has been eliminated and has only two games left in the tournament. On one hand, the team will look to salvage its cricketing pride and on the other hand, Chennai team will play to warm up for the play-off as they have already qualified in the play-offs. Though Delhi did not qualify for the play-offs it is one of the best batting sides in the ongoing tournament but the bowling side suffered a lot and currently have the poorest economy rate which is 9.34. The result of today's game will not affect the points table and it will be through joy for the Delhiites at Kotla stadium. Both the teams have done remarkably well in the death overs and it is expected that both the teams will enter with the same squad. Playing XI (TBC): Delhi: Amit Mishra, Jason Roy, Trent Boult, Harshal Patel, Vijay Shankar, Shreyas Iyer (c), Junior Dala, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sandeep Lamichhane, Abhishek Sharma, Prithvi Shaw Chennai: Harbhajan Singh, Shane Watson, Dwayne Bravo, MS Dhoni (c & wk), Suresh Raina, Ravindra Jadeja, Ambati Rayudu, David Willey, Deepak Chahar, Sam Billings, Shardul Thakur

IPL 2018: Match preview of Delhi vs Chennai

Rishab Pant is one player who has impressed everyone with his impeccable batting in the eleventh edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Though Delhi is out of contention for play-offs, Pant has proved his batting prowess by scoring 582 runs in 12 games played so far. &nbsp &nbsp

But as the tournament is still underway, Delhi will play its 13th game against Chennai &nbsp

The 'Yellow Brigade' have already qualified for the play-offs with eight wins from 12 games, while Delhi have missed the bus for knockouts after losing nine matches this season.

With very little riding on the Friday clash, players from both the teams were seen hanging out with each other.

Delhi's wicket-keeper batsman Rishabh Pant was also seen hanging out with Chennai skipper MS Dhoni and Suresh Raina.

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bi1DkHwnp4s/" style=" color:#000 font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px font-style:normal font-weight:normal line-height:17px text-decoration:none word-wrap:break-word" target="_blank">When you have seniors like these ✌️?@mahi7781 @sureshraina3 ??</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px line-height:17px margin-bottom:0 margin-top:8px overflow:hidden padding:8px 0 7px text-align:center text-overflow:ellipsis white-space:nowrap">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/rishabpant/" style=" color:#c9c8cd font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px font-style:normal font-weight:normal line-height:17px" target="_blank"> Rishabh Pant</a> (@rishabpant) on <time datetime="2018-05-16T06:54:32+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px line-height:17px">May 15, 2018 at 11:54pm PDT</time>
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"When you have senior like these @mahi7781 @sureshraina3," Pant captioned the image.&nbsp

The highlight of Pant's campaign has been the 128 not out against Hyderabad.&nbsp

He now also holds the record for highest scoring Indian in the history of IPL.

Dhoni is also enjoying his time out in the middle this IPL.&nbsp

The former Indian cricket team captain is having his best season in the league with 413 runs from 12 matches so far.&nbsp

He's scoring the runs at an average of 103.25 and a strike rate of 162.59. 
&nbsp

Delhi is out of contention for play-offs in IPL 2018.

Rishab Pant is one player who has impressed everyone with his impeccable batting in the eleventh edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Though Delhi is out of contention for play-offs, Pant has proved his batting prowess by scoring 582 runs in 12 games played so far. But as the tournament is still underway, Delhi will play its 13th game against Chennai The 'Yellow Brigade' have already qualified for the play-offs with eight wins from 12 games, while Delhi have missed the bus for knockouts after losing nine matches this season. With very little riding on the Friday clash, players from both the teams were seen hanging out with each other. Delhi's wicket-keeper batsman Rishabh Pant was also seen hanging out with Chennai skipper MS Dhoni and Suresh Raina. When you have seniors like these ✌️?@mahi7781 @sureshraina3 ?? A post shared by Rishabh Pant (@rishabpant) on May 15, 2018 at 11:54pm PDT × "When you have senior like these @mahi7781 @sureshraina3," Pant captioned the image. The highlight of Pant's campaign has been the 128 not out against Hyderabad. He now also holds the record for highest scoring Indian in the history of IPL. Dhoni is also enjoying his time out in the middle this IPL. The former Indian cricket team captain is having his best season in the league with 413 runs from 12 matches so far. He's scoring the runs at an average of 103.25 and a strike rate of 162.59.

IPL 2018: Rishab Pant parties with Dhoni, Raina ahead of Delhi vs Chennai clash

"People have been saying that our team is quite aged, but you need experience. All credit goes to Dhoni as you can see he is playing freely. In the IPL, he has shown that he can still play very well despite being 35-36," said Suresh&nbsp;Raina, explaining the fact that why IPL team&nbsp;Chennai includes aged players.&nbsp;

As Chennai qualified&nbsp;for play-offs for the&nbsp;ninth time, since IPL's inception, &nbsp;Raina said&nbsp;it is equally important to have experience and cites team's performance in the ongoing league.&nbsp;

Currently, the 'Yellow Brigade' have players above 35 years of age which include&nbsp;— Mahendra Singh Dhoni (36), Shane Watson (36), Dwayne Bravo (34), Harbhajan Singh (37) and Imran Tahir (39).

When asked about their current performance and strategy for the upcoming games, the left-handed batsman said that&nbsp;half work is done by qualifying, but the ultimate goal is to take the golden trophy home.

"Nobody remembers the runner-up. Everybody looks up to the winner. If we win this time, then the harsh memories of the finals that we lost in previous editions of IPL will go away," said Raina.

Altogether in IPL, Chennai have made their way to finals six times, out of which only two times they managed to emerge victoriously.&nbsp;

The star cricketer heaped praise on&nbsp;his current IPL team's skipper MS Dhoni and Indian Cricket Team&nbsp;captain Virat Kohli.&nbsp;

"Having Dhoni with Virat changes the morale of the Indian cricket team. In South Africa, we won the T20s and ODI series. We even defeated them in one Test match," he said.

"Virat is a player, who does not like to lose. In the current scenario, the cricket community in India has become fearless," he added.&nbsp;

Other than Chennai, Hyderabad too qualified for semi-finals with 18 points in IPL.

The finale of IPL 2018 will be played on May 27&nbsp;at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

Altogether in Indian Premier League(IPL), Chennai have made their way to finals for six times, out of which only twice they managed to emerge victoriously

"People have been saying that our team is quite aged, but you need experience. All credit goes to Dhoni as you can see he is playing freely. In the IPL, he has shown that he can still play very well despite being 35-36," said Suresh Raina, explaining the fact that why IPL team Chennai includes aged players. As Chennai qualified for play-offs for the ninth time, since IPL's inception, Raina said it is equally important to have experience and cites team's performance in the ongoing league. Currently, the 'Yellow Brigade' have players above 35 years of age which include — Mahendra Singh Dhoni (36), Shane Watson (36), Dwayne Bravo (34), Harbhajan Singh (37) and Imran Tahir (39). When asked about their current performance and strategy for the upcoming games, the left-handed batsman said that half work is done by qualifying, but the ultimate goal is to take the golden trophy home. "Nobody remembers the runner-up. Everybody looks up to the winner. If we win this time, then the harsh memories of the finals that we lost in previous editions of IPL will go away," said Raina. Altogether in IPL, Chennai have made their way to finals six times, out of which only two times they managed to emerge victoriously. The star cricketer heaped praise on his current IPL team's skipper MS Dhoni and Indian Cricket Team captain Virat Kohli. "Having Dhoni with Virat changes the morale of the Indian cricket team. In South Africa, we won the T20s and ODI series. We even defeated them in one Test match," he said. "Virat is a player, who does not like to lose. In the current scenario, the cricket community in India has become fearless," he added. Other than Chennai, Hyderabad too qualified for semi-finals with 18 points in IPL. The finale of IPL 2018 will be played on May 27 at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

'You need experience:'Suresh Raina on Chennai being marked as 'aged team'

With eight wins and four defeats, the two-time champions Chennai are second on the points tally and also became the second team to qualify for the play-offs.

Ahead of their clash against Delhi, skipper MS Dhoni along with other teammates celebrated Suresh Raina daughter Gracia's birthday, who turned two on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Dhoni, along with all-rounder Dwayne Bravo turned up to wish Raina's daughter.

The franchise also uploaded a video on their Twitter handle where Dhoni and Bravo were seen singing Happy Birthday for the little girl.&nbsp;

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Here is your midnight dose of cuteness to begin a super happy Wednesday! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GraciaTurns2?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GraciaTurns2</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRaina</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/_PriyankaCRaina?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@_PriyankaCRaina</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DJBravo47?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DJBravo47</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Geeta_Basra?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Geeta_Basra</a> ?? <a href="https://t.co/UbIRi7m0F6">pic.twitter.com/UbIRi7m0F6</a>
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Off-Spinner Harbhajan Singh and his wife were also in attendance.

Dhoni led the yellow brigade to two title wins - 2010 and 2012.&nbsp;

Dhoni is in tremendous form in the ongoing tournament.He has played 12 matches in the tournament so far and scored 413 runs at an average of 103.25. He has three half-centuries to his name.

On the other hand, Raina has scored 315 runs in 11 matches at an average of 35.00.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Dhoni, along with all-rounder Dwayne Bravo turned up to wish Raina's daughter.

With eight wins and four defeats, the two-time champions Chennai are second on the points tally and also became the second team to qualify for the play-offs. Ahead of their clash against Delhi, skipper MS Dhoni along with other teammates celebrated Suresh Raina daughter Gracia's birthday, who turned two on Wednesday. Dhoni, along with all-rounder Dwayne Bravo turned up to wish Raina's daughter. The franchise also uploaded a video on their Twitter handle where Dhoni and Bravo were seen singing Happy Birthday for the little girl. Here is your midnight dose of cuteness to begin a super happy Wednesday! #WhistlePodu #GraciaTurns2 @ImRaina @_PriyankaCRaina @msdhoni @DJBravo47 @Geeta_Basra ?? pic.twitter.com/UbIRi7m0F6 — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) May 15, 2018 × Off-Spinner Harbhajan Singh and his wife were also in attendance. Dhoni led the yellow brigade to two title wins - 2010 and 2012. Dhoni is in tremendous form in the ongoing tournament.He has played 12 matches in the tournament so far and scored 413 runs at an average of 103.25. He has three half-centuries to his name. On the other hand, Raina has scored 315 runs in 11 matches at an average of 35.00.

Watch: Dhoni, Bravo celebrate Suresh Raina daughter's birthday

Ambati Rayudu slammed a ton to help&nbsphis team achieve the 180-run target set by Hyderabad at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Pune, on Sunday.

Although, Hyderabad have already qualified for the play-offs in the ongoing edition of Indian Premier League,&nbspteam Chennai are just an inch closer in contention.&nbsp

The clash between the 'best chasers' (Chennai) and 'best defenders' (Hyderabad) gave an essence of the IPL 2018 finale with some bittersweet moments. And one cannot expect a dull moment when MS Dhoni is on the ground.&nbsp

One such&nbsphilarious incident happened in the seventh over of the first innings when Hyderabad&nbspbatsman Shikhar Dhawan played a shot and wicket-keeper MS Dhoni ran after the ball.

He picked up the ball and gestured to throw on the face of Ravindra Jadeja, who was also approaching the ball at the same time. For a while, Jadeja got scared but ended up laughing on the funny act of skipper Dhoni.

Watch the video here:

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Cutest moment ???<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dhoni?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dhoni</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Jadeja?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Jadeja</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSK?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSKvSRH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSKvSRH</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SRHvCSK?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SRHvCSK</a> <a href="https://t.co/9sNzH9PNgi">pic.twitter.com/9sNzH9PNgi</a>
— மகிழன் (@omagasiya) <a href="https://twitter.com/omagasiya/status/995658958303039494?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Dhoni funs Jadeja On Field & Smiled After That. Video Shows Funny Side Of Dhoni.. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSKvSRH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSKvSRH</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/9p5Ti3g7zH">pic.twitter.com/9p5Ti3g7zH</a>
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&nbsp

A hilarious incident happened in the seventh over of the first innings when MS Dhoni gestured to throw on the face of Ravindra Jadeja

Ambati Rayudu slammed a ton to help&nbsphis team achieve the 180-run target set by Hyderabad at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Pune, on Sunday. Although, Hyderabad have already qualified for the play-offs in the ongoing edition of Indian Premier League,&nbspteam Chennai are just an inch closer in contention. The clash between the 'best chasers' (Chennai) and 'best defenders' (Hyderabad) gave an essence of the IPL 2018 finale with some bittersweet moments. And one cannot expect a dull moment when MS Dhoni is on the ground. One such&nbsphilarious incident happened in the seventh over of the first innings when Hyderabad&nbspbatsman Shikhar Dhawan played a shot and wicket-keeper MS Dhoni ran after the ball. He picked up the ball and gestured to throw on the face of Ravindra Jadeja, who was also approaching the ball at the same time. For a while, Jadeja got scared but ended up laughing on the funny act of skipper Dhoni. Watch the video here: Cutest moment ???#Dhoni #Jadeja #CSK #CSKvSRH #SRHvCSK pic.twitter.com/9sNzH9PNgi — மகிழன் (@omagasiya) May 13, 2018 × Dhoni funs Jadeja On Field & Smiled After That. Video Shows Funny Side Of Dhoni.. #CSKvSRH #IPL2018 pic.twitter.com/9p5Ti3g7zH — HiFi Talkies ™ (@HiFiTalkies) May 13, 2018 ×

Caught on cam: MS Dhoni threatens Ravindra Jadeja in IPL match against Hyderabad

Ambati Rayudu slammed a century off 62 balls and helped his team in achieving the 180-run target against Hyderabad at Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Pune on Sunday.

It was a clash between the 'best chasers' (Chennai) and 'best defenders' (Hyderabad) but team Chennai displayed an outstanding performance and chased down the target at home ground.

The openers, Shane Watson and Ambati Rayudu scored 57 and 100 runs respectively to give the necessary start to the team and defeated Hyderabad by eight wickets.

Chennai's batsmen Ambati Rayudu was given Man of the Match award for his magnificent performance.&nbsp;

Apart from the openers, MS Dhoni scored 20 runs to mark the much-needed victory, on the other hand, Suresh Raina lost his wicket after scoring just two runs.

Known for their massive bowling strength, Hyderabad struggled in taking wickets and none of the bowlers performed.

Sandeep Sharma took one wicket of Suresh Raina in his 4-over spell.

Earlier, MS Dhoni had invited the guests to bat first after winning the toss.

Shikhar Dhawan scored 79 runs off 49 balls, his innings included ten 4's and three 6's playing at a strike rate of 161.22.

Another opener Alex Hales did not perform and lost his wicket to Deepak Chahar after scoring just two runs off nine balls.

Skipper Kane Williamson slammed his 10th IPL fifty and found a determined ally in Shikhar Dhawan on the other end to put up a decent target for the opponents.

Deepak Hooda played some beautiful shots in the death overs and scored 21 crucial runs. Manish Pandey and Shakib Al Hasan scored 5 and 8 runs respectively.

In search of wickets, MS Dhoni took help of seven bowlers but apart from Deepak Chahar, none of the bowlers were economical. Chahar took one key wicket of Alex Hales and gave 16 runs in his 4-over spell.

Also, Shardul Thakur took two wickets of Kane Williamson and Manish Pandey.&nbsp;

Ambati Rayudu was given 'Man of the Match' award for his magnificent performance

Ambati Rayudu slammed a century off 62 balls and helped his team in achieving the 180-run target against Hyderabad at Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Pune on Sunday. It was a clash between the 'best chasers' (Chennai) and 'best defenders' (Hyderabad) but team Chennai displayed an outstanding performance and chased down the target at home ground. The openers, Shane Watson and Ambati Rayudu scored 57 and 100 runs respectively to give the necessary start to the team and defeated Hyderabad by eight wickets. Chennai's batsmen Ambati Rayudu was given Man of the Match award for his magnificent performance. Apart from the openers, MS Dhoni scored 20 runs to mark the much-needed victory, on the other hand, Suresh Raina lost his wicket after scoring just two runs. Known for their massive bowling strength, Hyderabad struggled in taking wickets and none of the bowlers performed. Sandeep Sharma took one wicket of Suresh Raina in his 4-over spell. Earlier, MS Dhoni had invited the guests to bat first after winning the toss. Shikhar Dhawan scored 79 runs off 49 balls, his innings included ten 4's and three 6's playing at a strike rate of 161.22. Another opener Alex Hales did not perform and lost his wicket to Deepak Chahar after scoring just two runs off nine balls. Skipper Kane Williamson slammed his 10th IPL fifty and found a determined ally in Shikhar Dhawan on the other end to put up a decent target for the opponents. Deepak Hooda played some beautiful shots in the death overs and scored 21 crucial runs. Manish Pandey and Shakib Al Hasan scored 5 and 8 runs respectively. In search of wickets, MS Dhoni took help of seven bowlers but apart from Deepak Chahar, none of the bowlers were economical. Chahar took one key wicket of Alex Hales and gave 16 runs in his 4-over spell. Also, Shardul Thakur took two wickets of Kane Williamson and Manish Pandey.

IPL 2018: Ambati Rayudu's 62-ball century helps Chennai defeat Hyderabad by 8 wickets

Hyderabad set a 180-run target for Chennai at Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Pune on Sunday. Earlier, MS Dhoni won the toss and opted to bowl.

Table toppers Hyderabad entered the field with confidence as they have already qualified for the play-off and the conviction was reflected&nbsp;in the performance&nbsp;of Shikhar Dhawan.

Dhawan scored 79 runs off 49 balls, his innings included ten 4's and three 6's playing at a strike rate of 161.22

Another opener Alex Hales did&nbsp;not perform and lost his wicket to Deepak Chahar after scoring just two runs off nine balls.

Skipper Kane Williamson slammed his 10th IPL fifty and found a determined ally in Shikhar Dhawan on the other end to put up a decent target for the opponents.

Deepak Hooda played some beautiful shots in the death overs and scored 21 crucial runs. Manish Pandey and Shakib Al Hasan scored 5 and 8 runs respectively.

In search of wickets, MS Dhoni took help of seven bowlers but apart from Deepak Chahar, none of the bowlers were economical. Chahar took one key wicket of Alex Hales and gave 16 runs in his 4-over spell.

Also, Shardul Thakur took two wickets of Kane Williamson and Manish Pandey.&nbsp;

Shikhar Dhawan scored 79 runs off 49 balls, his innings included ten 4's and three 6's playing at a strike rate of 161.22

Hyderabad set a 180-run target for Chennai at Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Pune on Sunday. Earlier, MS Dhoni won the toss and opted to bowl. Table toppers Hyderabad entered the field with confidence as they have already qualified for the play-off and the conviction was reflected in the performance of Shikhar Dhawan. Dhawan scored 79 runs off 49 balls, his innings included ten 4's and three 6's playing at a strike rate of 161.22 Another opener Alex Hales did not perform and lost his wicket to Deepak Chahar after scoring just two runs off nine balls. Skipper Kane Williamson slammed his 10th IPL fifty and found a determined ally in Shikhar Dhawan on the other end to put up a decent target for the opponents. Deepak Hooda played some beautiful shots in the death overs and scored 21 crucial runs. Manish Pandey and Shakib Al Hasan scored 5 and 8 runs respectively. In search of wickets, MS Dhoni took help of seven bowlers but apart from Deepak Chahar, none of the bowlers were economical. Chahar took one key wicket of Alex Hales and gave 16 runs in his 4-over spell. Also, Shardul Thakur took two wickets of Kane Williamson and Manish Pandey.

Dhawan, Williamson shine as Hyderabad set 180-run target for Chennai

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, known for his low profile and reserved nature, does not like to reveal much about himself in public.&nbsp;

However, the Chennai skipper revealed one of his most personal secrets in public.

During a promotional event, he revealed the name of his first ever crush.&nbsp;

Dhoni, who is enjoying his game in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL), was first asked to reveal the number of alphabets in his crush's name.&nbsp;

Later the performer, who was doing mind and mental tricks and started to guess the name of Dhoni's first crush.&nbsp;

He asked Dhoni some questions about the name and then guessed the name- Swati.

The wicketkeeper-batsman after some reluctance admitted that the name was right.&nbsp;

The former Indian skipper also jokingly asked everybody not to reveal the same to his wife Sakshi Dhoni.

He also revealed that he last saw Swati back when he was studying in the 12th standard in 1999.

The event was also attended by other Chennai players like Shane Watson, Suresh Raina and Ravindra Jadeja. 
&nbsp;

He revealed the name during a promotional event

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, known for his low profile and reserved nature, does not like to reveal much about himself in public. However, the Chennai skipper revealed one of his most personal secrets in public. During a promotional event, he revealed the name of his first ever crush. Dhoni, who is enjoying his game in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL), was first asked to reveal the number of alphabets in his crush's name. Later the performer, who was doing mind and mental tricks and started to guess the name of Dhoni's first crush. He asked Dhoni some questions about the name and then guessed the name- Swati. The wicketkeeper-batsman after some reluctance admitted that the name was right. The former Indian skipper also jokingly asked everybody not to reveal the same to his wife Sakshi Dhoni. He also revealed that he last saw Swati back when he was studying in the 12th standard in 1999. The event was also attended by other Chennai players like Shane Watson, Suresh Raina and Ravindra Jadeja.

IPL 2018: MS Dhoni reveals name of his crush, asks 'not to tell his wife'

Mahendra Singh Dhoni edged past Chris Gayle to lead the list for most sixes in the ongoing Indian Premier League this season.

The Chennai skipper, who has been in breathtaking form this year, has blasted 27 sixes from ten innings.&nbsp;

While Punjab's Chris Gayle acquires the second spot with 25 sixes.&nbsp;

Bangalore's AB de Villiers and Kolkata's Andre Russell have hit 23 sixes each.

Dhoni has not been in great T20 form in recent years. However, the 36-year-old has batted like a man possessed in IPL 2018.

He walked in to bat in the 12th over when Chennai were seemingly in a spot of bother against Kolkata.&nbsp;

As Chennai had lost all their set batsman including Ambati Rayadu, Dhoni took things in his own hands and smashed four sixes including two off Mitchell Johnson in his third over and remained not out on a 25-ball 43.

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Orange Cap holder Ambati Rayudu and Delhi skipper Shreyas Iyer acquire the fifth and sixth position respectively with the two hitting 22 and 21 sixes respectively.&nbsp;

Last season, Glenn Maxwell and David Warner hit 26 sixes and topped the charts.&nbsp;

This time, apart from Dhoni and Gayle, five other batsmen have touched the 20 sixes-mark halfway through the tournament.

Punjab's Chris Gayle acquires the second spot with 25 sixes.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni edged past Chris Gayle to lead the list for most sixes in the ongoing Indian Premier League this season. The Chennai skipper, who has been in breathtaking form this year, has blasted 27 sixes from ten innings. While Punjab's Chris Gayle acquires the second spot with 25 sixes. Bangalore's AB de Villiers and Kolkata's Andre Russell have hit 23 sixes each. Dhoni has not been in great T20 form in recent years. However, the 36-year-old has batted like a man possessed in IPL 2018. He walked in to bat in the 12th over when Chennai were seemingly in a spot of bother against Kolkata. As Chennai had lost all their set batsman including Ambati Rayadu, Dhoni took things in his own hands and smashed four sixes including two off Mitchell Johnson in his third over and remained not out on a 25-ball 43. × Orange Cap holder Ambati Rayudu and Delhi skipper Shreyas Iyer acquire the fifth and sixth position respectively with the two hitting 22 and 21 sixes respectively. Last season, Glenn Maxwell and David Warner hit 26 sixes and topped the charts. This time, apart from Dhoni and Gayle, five other batsmen have touched the 20 sixes-mark halfway through the tournament.

IPL 2018: MS Dhoni surpass Chris Gayle to hit most sixes in ongoing Season 11

&nbspHeaping praise on skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Chennai&nbspbatting coach Mike Hussey has termed the former India Test wicket-keeper as the man having the fastest draw of as far as stumping off spinners is concerned.

"My observations are he's (Dhoni) got to be the fastest in the world against the spinners in taking the bails off. He's unbelievably quick," said the former Australia player after Chennai had routed Bangalore by six wickets in an IPL match yesterday.

Dhoni had effected quick-silver stumping, taking the bails off in a flash, to send back top South Africa batsman AB de Villiers and Murugan Ashwin of the Bangalore, both off Harbhajan Singh, to help Chennai stop the strong visitors at 127 for 9 that was overhauled by the hosts by 12 balls to spare.

The former India skipper was at his brutal best, smashing three sixes off leggie Yuzvendra Chahal in the 18th over to finish off the game in style.

Dhoni made 31 not out off 23 balls and in the company of seasoned West Indian all-rounder Dwayne Bravo pulled Chennai across the finish line from a tricky 80 for four in the 13th over and has been in superb form with the bat too in this Indian Premier League (IPL) season.

Hussey was effusive in his praise for the former India skipper with the bat too.

"He's such an important player for the team. He's a fantastic keeper, has been in unbelievably good form with the bat, probably the best I've seen him play for quite a few years," he said.

Hussey also praised veteran off-spinner Harbhajan and left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja who bundled out the strong CSK for a low total.

"Harbhajan has been bowling nicely the last few games. And he's been doing a fantastic job for us though those middle overs," he said.

"He (Jadeja) bowled beautifully today. The skipper has been showing nice faith in him and that's been important, giving him the confidence. It's nice for him to get the rewards today,"Hussey added.

"He's been bowling well but the rewards have just not been coming his way. So, it's nice for him to get the reward (man of the match) today with an excellent performance," the CSK batting coach noted.

Dhoni had effected quick-silver stumping, taking the bails off in a flash to send back top South Africa batsman AB de Villiers

&nbspHeaping praise on skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Chennai&nbspbatting coach Mike Hussey has termed the former India Test wicket-keeper as the man having the fastest draw of as far as stumping off spinners is concerned. "My observations are he's (Dhoni) got to be the fastest in the world against the spinners in taking the bails off. He's unbelievably quick," said the former Australia player after Chennai had routed Bangalore by six wickets in an IPL match yesterday. Dhoni had effected quick-silver stumping, taking the bails off in a flash, to send back top South Africa batsman AB de Villiers and Murugan Ashwin of the Bangalore, both off Harbhajan Singh, to help Chennai stop the strong visitors at 127 for 9 that was overhauled by the hosts by 12 balls to spare. The former India skipper was at his brutal best, smashing three sixes off leggie Yuzvendra Chahal in the 18th over to finish off the game in style. Dhoni made 31 not out off 23 balls and in the company of seasoned West Indian all-rounder Dwayne Bravo pulled Chennai across the finish line from a tricky 80 for four in the 13th over and has been in superb form with the bat too in this Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Hussey was effusive in his praise for the former India skipper with the bat too. "He's such an important player for the team. He's a fantastic keeper, has been in unbelievably good form with the bat, probably the best I've seen him play for quite a few years," he said. Hussey also praised veteran off-spinner Harbhajan and left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja who bundled out the strong CSK for a low total. "Harbhajan has been bowling nicely the last few games. And he's been doing a fantastic job for us though those middle overs," he said. "He (Jadeja) bowled beautifully today. The skipper has been showing nice faith in him and that's been important, giving him the confidence. It's nice for him to get the rewards today,"Hussey added. "He's been bowling well but the rewards have just not been coming his way. So, it's nice for him to get the reward (man of the match) today with an excellent performance," the CSK batting coach noted.

Dhoni is fastest stumper against spinners: Mike Hussey

Mahendra Singh Dhoni&nbsp;played a magnificent 31-run knock off 23 balls with the help of&nbsp;massive hittings that helped the team to reach the set target of 128 runs&nbsp;against Bangalore on Saturday, April 4.

36-year old MS Dhoni has inspired thousands of youngsters to take up cricket as their profession and even on the field, Mahi has been guiding the newcomers to improve their skills.

One of the most popular cricketing icons and former captain of men's cricket team, MS Dhoni is known for his humble and cool attitude. He earned many trophies for India including&nbsp;ICC World Cup.

His fans and followers never fail to show their love and affection, recently an incident happened that will prove that fans' love for MSD is unconditional.

In the match against Kolkata, a fan violated the security parameters to meet MS Dhoni in the Chennai's dugout.

Watch the video:

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ROHIT is just a word. But DHONI is emotion....... <a href="https://t.co/iva5sFlCbb">pic.twitter.com/iva5sFlCbb</a>
— Murali (@murali_csk_fan) <a href="https://twitter.com/murali_csk_fan/status/993036071158956032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Again the incident was repeated when MS Dhoni was shaking hands with the opponent team after hitting the winning runs. When he was congratulating the other team members, a fan came running to meet MSD and touched his feet.

Watch the video:

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As <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a> climb to the top of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> points table, yet another fan rushes to meet his idol <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSKvRCB?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSKvRCB</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> <a href="https://t.co/p14RVjGFs9">pic.twitter.com/p14RVjGFs9</a>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/992766925183664128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

MS Dhoni's fans and followers never fail to show their love and affection and recently an incident happened that will prove that fans' love for MSD is unconditional

Mahendra Singh Dhoni played a magnificent 31-run knock off 23 balls with the help of massive hittings that helped the team to reach the set target of 128 runs against Bangalore on Saturday, April 4. 36-year old MS Dhoni has inspired thousands of youngsters to take up cricket as their profession and even on the field, Mahi has been guiding the newcomers to improve their skills. One of the most popular cricketing icons and former captain of men's cricket team, MS Dhoni is known for his humble and cool attitude. He earned many trophies for India including ICC World Cup. His fans and followers never fail to show their love and affection, recently an incident happened that will prove that fans' love for MSD is unconditional. In the match against Kolkata, a fan violated the security parameters to meet MS Dhoni in the Chennai's dugout. Watch the video: ROHIT is just a word. But DHONI is emotion....... pic.twitter.com/iva5sFlCbb — Murali (@murali_csk_fan) May 6, 2018 × Again the incident was repeated when MS Dhoni was shaking hands with the opponent team after hitting the winning runs. When he was congratulating the other team members, a fan came running to meet MSD and touched his feet. Watch the video: As @ChennaiIPL climb to the top of the #VIVOIPL points table, yet another fan rushes to meet his idol @msdhoni. #CSKvRCB #VIVOIPL pic.twitter.com/p14RVjGFs9 — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) May 5, 2018 ×

Watch: Another fan breaches security to meet MS Dhoni, touches feet

Virat Kohli-led Bangalore fell like nine pins after the powerplay as the team ended their innings at just 127, their lowest total in this year's IPL.

At one point Bangalore were 47 for the loss of one wicket, but then lost Kohli, AB and Mandeep to spin in the space of five overs.

Parthiv Patel, who played his first game in IPL 2018, smashed a half-century and also became the top scorer for the team by making 53 runs off 41 balls.&nbsp

The team could have ended their innings with the lowest score in this year's league before Tim Southee came to their rescue.&nbsp

He made 36 runs in 26 balls to save his team from drowning and set a decent score on board.&nbsp

Apart from Patel and Southee, no other player scored in two digits.&nbsp

Skipper Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers fell succumbed to Chennai's spin attack as Bangalore were put into bat at Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune, on Saturday.

Kohli was clean bowled by Ravindra Jadeja while de Villiers gave away his wicket to Harbhajan Singh.

Kohli was departed for eight runs and de Villiers made just one.

Chennai skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni won the toss and opted to bowl.

Chennai is coming off from a tragic defeat against Kolkata in their previous encounter and must have worked on their loopholes and rectified the errors in order to earn two crucial points.

On the other hand, team Bangalore is high on spirit as they have won the previous match against Mumbai.

The competition between the teams which are placed at the fourth, fifth and sixth position at the league's table is very tough now.&nbsp

Chennai have lost its two previous clashes out of three and looked a bit off but with a well-balanced team, it requires just one win to prove caliber of the entire team.

On the other hand, confidence Virat Kohli is leading the batting department from the front but still, team Bangalore is dealing with the problems of bowling unit, which has been very expensive especially in death overs.

The current team of Chennai is very sorted and any change at this moment is not required.

On the other hand, the good news for Bangalore is that their star player, AB de Villiers is fit and back in the squad but opener Quinton de Kock has flown back home due to some personal reasons and skipper Virat Kohli might replace him by Manan Vohra.

In the absence of wicket-keeper, the best replacement for team Bangalore is Parthiv Patel.

At one point Bangalore were 47 for the loss of one wicket

Virat Kohli-led Bangalore fell like nine pins after the powerplay as the team ended their innings at just 127, their lowest total in this year's IPL. At one point Bangalore were 47 for the loss of one wicket, but then lost Kohli, AB and Mandeep to spin in the space of five overs. Parthiv Patel, who played his first game in IPL 2018, smashed a half-century and also became the top scorer for the team by making 53 runs off 41 balls. The team could have ended their innings with the lowest score in this year's league before Tim Southee came to their rescue. He made 36 runs in 26 balls to save his team from drowning and set a decent score on board. Apart from Patel and Southee, no other player scored in two digits. Skipper Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers fell succumbed to Chennai's spin attack as Bangalore were put into bat at Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune, on Saturday. Kohli was clean bowled by Ravindra Jadeja while de Villiers gave away his wicket to Harbhajan Singh. Kohli was departed for eight runs and de Villiers made just one. Chennai skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni won the toss and opted to bowl. Chennai is coming off from a tragic defeat against Kolkata in their previous encounter and must have worked on their loopholes and rectified the errors in order to earn two crucial points. On the other hand, team Bangalore is high on spirit as they have won the previous match against Mumbai. The competition between the teams which are placed at the fourth, fifth and sixth position at the league's table is very tough now. Chennai have lost its two previous clashes out of three and looked a bit off but with a well-balanced team, it requires just one win to prove caliber of the entire team. On the other hand, confidence Virat Kohli is leading the batting department from the front but still, team Bangalore is dealing with the problems of bowling unit, which has been very expensive especially in death overs. The current team of Chennai is very sorted and any change at this moment is not required. On the other hand, the good news for Bangalore is that their star player, AB de Villiers is fit and back in the squad but opener Quinton de Kock has flown back home due to some personal reasons and skipper Virat Kohli might replace him by Manan Vohra. In the absence of wicket-keeper, the best replacement for team Bangalore is Parthiv Patel.

IPL 2018: Chennai bowlers restrict Bangalore to 127 runs

Under-19 cricketing star and influential pacer of Kolkata got a golden opportunity to play with one of the great cricketing icons of India, Mahendra Singh Dhoni.

MS Dhoni has inspired thousands of youngsters to take up cricket as their profession and even on the field, Mahi has been guiding the newcomers to improve their skills.

On Thursday host Kolkata defeated Chennai by six wickets but after winning the game, 19-year old Shivam Mavi met and interacted former skipper of India and&nbsp;MSD, who is back in his vintage form. MSD&nbsp;shared some valuable pieces&nbsp;advice to the youngster&nbsp;Shivam Mavi.

Paceman Shivam shared a picture of him with Dhoni on social networking site with the caption, "The pieces of advice you gave me after the match are highly appreciated and words can neither qualify nor quantify your guidance and useful advice.

"Your perseverance, integrity and people-loving nature are just a few of your qualities that continue to inspire me," he further added.

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The pieces of advice you gave me after the match are highly appreciated and words can neither qualify nor quantify your guidance and useful advice. Your perseverance, integrity and people-loving nature are just a few of your qualities that continue to inspire me. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mahibhai?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mahibhai</a>♥️ <a href="https://t.co/CfRB2mTDnD">pic.twitter.com/CfRB2mTDnD</a>
— Shivam Mavi (@ShivamMavi23) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShivamMavi23/status/992333789505445888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

"The pieces of advice you gave me after the match are highly appreciated and words can neither qualify nor quantify your guidance and useful advice," says Shivam Mavi for MS Dhoni

Under-19 cricketing star and influential pacer of Kolkata got a golden opportunity to play with one of the great cricketing icons of India, Mahendra Singh Dhoni. MS Dhoni has inspired thousands of youngsters to take up cricket as their profession and even on the field, Mahi has been guiding the newcomers to improve their skills. On Thursday host Kolkata defeated Chennai by six wickets but after winning the game, 19-year old Shivam Mavi met and interacted former skipper of India and MSD, who is back in his vintage form. MSD shared some valuable pieces advice to the youngster Shivam Mavi. Paceman Shivam shared a picture of him with Dhoni on social networking site with the caption, "The pieces of advice you gave me after the match are highly appreciated and words can neither qualify nor quantify your guidance and useful advice. "Your perseverance, integrity and people-loving nature are just a few of your qualities that continue to inspire me," he further added. The pieces of advice you gave me after the match are highly appreciated and words can neither qualify nor quantify your guidance and useful advice. Your perseverance, integrity and people-loving nature are just a few of your qualities that continue to inspire me. #Mahibhai♥️ pic.twitter.com/CfRB2mTDnD — Shivam Mavi (@ShivamMavi23) May 4, 2018 ×

MS Dhoni continues to inspire me: Shivam Mavi

Twenty third March 2007 is one of the most forgettable days for the Indian Cricket. On this day India lost out to Sri Lanka in 2007 World Cup and crashed out of tournament even before going into last eight.

But I always remember this day in regard to MS Dhoni. Dejected and down, I was discussing the match with my cricket freak friend.

"Will we ever see another 25th June 1983 in our lifetime?" I asked. My friend quipped, out of nowhere "Rest assured, Dhoni will bring many such moments for you in days to come."

No doubt that even by March 2007, MSD had proved his credentials but still comment of my friend was bit intriguing because during that match against Sri Lanka, Dhoni was out for a first ball duck and was at the centre of anger of fans.

Dhoni took just six months to vindicate my friend when under his captaincy India won T-20 World Cup in September 2007. The same Ranchi crowd who pelted his house six months back after the World Cup debacle was garlanding him.

In next six years, Dhoni achieved everything which he could have dreamt – ICC Cricket World Cup, ICC Champions Trophy and top ICC Test ranking.

Now, let's switch over the discussion to the ongoing edition of Indian Premier League. After half the tournament is over, what are the key takeaways?

The first takeaway is that Gambhir, Yuvraj and Raina now don't have anything to offer and their prospects for national duty are now zilch.&nbsp

Second is that Ambati Rayadu can be a suitable option for number four position in India's One Day International squad.

The third is that youngsters like Prithvi Shaw and Shubman Gill are good future prospects.

But the most important takeaway from IPL-2018 so far is that MS Dhoni is still a force to reckon with.

Those who were sceptical about credentials and about his place in the Indian playing eleven must have changed their opinion.

Over the past 12-13 years, apart from being a mercurial captain, Dhoni has been one of the finest finishers of the game of all times.&nbsp

During an outstanding career, Dhoni created a sort of cult around him. His memorable six over the long-on that finished the final of 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup remains one of the defining moments of Indian cricket.

MSD is a man of strong conviction. When he announced his retirement from Test in early 2015, it was surprising. When India crashed out of 2015 Cricket World Cup, many believe that it is perhaps the end of Dhoni as well. But Dhoni had other ideas. He very well knows his strengths.

Of late during the past couple of years, fraternity started believing that Dhoni magic was waning. His finishing touch had lost and he was taking so many balls to get off the block. This is typical Dhoni's template.

He would cautiously take the innings to the end and then he would provide the massive final blow to seal things. In recent months though, this style of Dhoni failed at few occasions and fans were frowning.

But this IPL, it is a rejuvenated Dhoni. The typical Mahi mojo is back, with a bang. He is finishing the match for his side and the main difference is that he has seemed to have regained the knack of getting off the block without wasting many deliveries.

As ICC World Cup is around 13 months away, the new Dhoni is refreshing news for Indian cricket and he can again play a role of wonderful finisher down the order to the batting line-up, which has likes of Kohli and Rohit Sharma at the top.

Dhoni still has the lot to deliver for Indian cricket. Come 2019, maybe Dhoni will once again prove my friend correct and he play a vital role in bringing yet another proud moment for the Indian fans.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

As ICC World Cup is around 13 months away, the new Dhoni is refreshing news for Indian cricket and he can again play a role of wonderful finisher down the order to the batting line-up

Twenty third March 2007 is one of the most forgettable days for the Indian Cricket. On this day India lost out to Sri Lanka in 2007 World Cup and crashed out of tournament even before going into last eight. But I always remember this day in regard to MS Dhoni. Dejected and down, I was discussing the match with my cricket freak friend. "Will we ever see another 25th June 1983 in our lifetime?" I asked. My friend quipped, out of nowhere "Rest assured, Dhoni will bring many such moments for you in days to come." No doubt that even by March 2007, MSD had proved his credentials but still comment of my friend was bit intriguing because during that match against Sri Lanka, Dhoni was out for a first ball duck and was at the centre of anger of fans. Dhoni took just six months to vindicate my friend when under his captaincy India won T-20 World Cup in September 2007. The same Ranchi crowd who pelted his house six months back after the World Cup debacle was garlanding him. In next six years, Dhoni achieved everything which he could have dreamt – ICC Cricket World Cup, ICC Champions Trophy and top ICC Test ranking. Now, let's switch over the discussion to the ongoing edition of Indian Premier League. After half the tournament is over, what are the key takeaways? The first takeaway is that Gambhir, Yuvraj and Raina now don't have anything to offer and their prospects for national duty are now zilch. Second is that Ambati Rayadu can be a suitable option for number four position in India's One Day International squad. The third is that youngsters like Prithvi Shaw and Shubman Gill are good future prospects. But the most important takeaway from IPL-2018 so far is that MS Dhoni is still a force to reckon with. Those who were sceptical about credentials and about his place in the Indian playing eleven must have changed their opinion. Over the past 12-13 years, apart from being a mercurial captain, Dhoni has been one of the finest finishers of the game of all times. During an outstanding career, Dhoni created a sort of cult around him. His memorable six over the long-on that finished the final of 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup remains one of the defining moments of Indian cricket. MSD is a man of strong conviction. When he announced his retirement from Test in early 2015, it was surprising. When India crashed out of 2015 Cricket World Cup, many believe that it is perhaps the end of Dhoni as well. But Dhoni had other ideas. He very well knows his strengths. Of late during the past couple of years, fraternity started believing that Dhoni magic was waning. His finishing touch had lost and he was taking so many balls to get off the block. This is typical Dhoni's template. He would cautiously take the innings to the end and then he would provide the massive final blow to seal things. In recent months though, this style of Dhoni failed at few occasions and fans were frowning. But this IPL, it is a rejuvenated Dhoni. The typical Mahi mojo is back, with a bang. He is finishing the match for his side and the main difference is that he has seemed to have regained the knack of getting off the block without wasting many deliveries. As ICC World Cup is around 13 months away, the new Dhoni is refreshing news for Indian cricket and he can again play a role of wonderful finisher down the order to the batting line-up, which has likes of Kohli and Rohit Sharma at the top. Dhoni still has the lot to deliver for Indian cricket. Come 2019, maybe Dhoni will once again prove my friend correct and he play a vital role in bringing yet another proud moment for the Indian fans. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: MS Dhoni's return to form is major takeaway from IPL 2018

Young cricket talent Shubham Gill and skipper Dinesh Karthik dominated the Mahendra Singh Dhoni-led Chennai, while chasing a target of 176. &nbsp;

Gill and Karthik remained unbeaten and scored 57 and 45 respectively to defeat the IPL league's table-toppers.

Karthik played a skipper's knock and led from the front to take his team to the victory side.&nbsp;

His fabulous innings came in just 18 balls which included seven fours and one six. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Gill came to bat at number four when Kolkata were 64 for the loss of three wickets. He took some balls to settle but later smashed a half-century off just 36 balls.

Chris Lynn and Sunil Narine opened for the franchise an contributed 12 and 32 respectively.

Robin Uthappa failed to contribute this time and departed after making just six runs.&nbsp;

In the 33rd match of the IPL 2018, Kolkata won the toss and asked Chennai to bat first at the Eden Gardens.&nbsp;

Shane Watson and Faf Du Plessis opened for Chennai and scored with the run rate of over 9 per over.&nbsp;

Kolkata bowlers could not get a breakthrough in the initial overs and the batsmen did not face much resistance from the bowlers.

Chennai ended the innings scoring 177 runs for the loss of 5 wickets. Dhoni contributed a significant 43 runs.

Speaking after the toss, Karthik said, "We would like to bowl first. The way we have been chasing decently and we back that. It's important to be aware of your strengths and try to keep playing to that."

"I think we have been playing well both in terms of batting and bowling. One change for us. Nitish Rana is out and Rinku Singh is in," he added.

When Asked Dhoni about his strategy for today, he said, "We wanted to bowl first as well. The wicket has been so good that the outfield seems a bit smaller."

"Otherwise, it has been a good venue. Need to improve on our death bowling, what's important for us is to bowl according to our field. That's the only concern for us. Same squad for us," he added.&nbsp;

Teams:

Kolkata (Playing XI): Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Rinku Singh, Shubman Gill, Andre Russell, Shivam Mavi, Piyush Chawla, Mitchell Johnson, Kuldeep Yadav

Chennai (Playing XI): Shane Watson, Faf du Plessis, Suresh Raina, Ambati Rayudu, MS Dhoni(w/c), Dwayne Bravo, Ravindra Jadeja, Karn Sharma, Harbhajan Singh, Lungi Ngidi, KM Asif

Karthik played a skipper's knock and led from the front to take his team to the victory side.

Young cricket talent Shubham Gill and skipper Dinesh Karthik dominated the Mahendra Singh Dhoni-led Chennai, while chasing a target of 176. Gill and Karthik remained unbeaten and scored 57 and 45 respectively to defeat the IPL league's table-toppers. Karthik played a skipper's knock and led from the front to take his team to the victory side. His fabulous innings came in just 18 balls which included seven fours and one six. Gill came to bat at number four when Kolkata were 64 for the loss of three wickets. He took some balls to settle but later smashed a half-century off just 36 balls. Chris Lynn and Sunil Narine opened for the franchise an contributed 12 and 32 respectively. Robin Uthappa failed to contribute this time and departed after making just six runs. In the 33rd match of the IPL 2018, Kolkata won the toss and asked Chennai to bat first at the Eden Gardens. Shane Watson and Faf Du Plessis opened for Chennai and scored with the run rate of over 9 per over. Kolkata bowlers could not get a breakthrough in the initial overs and the batsmen did not face much resistance from the bowlers. Chennai ended the innings scoring 177 runs for the loss of 5 wickets. Dhoni contributed a significant 43 runs. Speaking after the toss, Karthik said, "We would like to bowl first. The way we have been chasing decently and we back that. It's important to be aware of your strengths and try to keep playing to that." "I think we have been playing well both in terms of batting and bowling. One change for us. Nitish Rana is out and Rinku Singh is in," he added. When Asked Dhoni about his strategy for today, he said, "We wanted to bowl first as well. The wicket has been so good that the outfield seems a bit smaller." "Otherwise, it has been a good venue. Need to improve on our death bowling, what's important for us is to bowl according to our field. That's the only concern for us. Same squad for us," he added. Teams: Kolkata (Playing XI): Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Rinku Singh, Shubman Gill, Andre Russell, Shivam Mavi, Piyush Chawla, Mitchell Johnson, Kuldeep Yadav Chennai (Playing XI): Shane Watson, Faf du Plessis, Suresh Raina, Ambati Rayudu, MS Dhoni(w/c), Dwayne Bravo, Ravindra Jadeja, Karn Sharma, Harbhajan Singh, Lungi Ngidi, KM Asif

IPL 2018: Gill, Karthik shine as Kolkata beat table-toppers Chennai by 6 wickets

In the 33rd match of the IPL 2018, Kolkata won the toss and asked Chennai to bat first at the Eden Gardens.&nbsp;

Shane Watson and Faf Du Plessis opened for Chennai and scored with the run rate of over 9 per over.&nbsp;

Kolkata bowlers could not get a breakthrough in the initial overs and the batsmen did not face much resistance from the bowlers.

Chennai ended the innings scoring 177 runs for the loss of 5 wickets. Dhoni contributed a significant 43 runs.

Speaking after the toss, Karthik said, "We would like to bowl first. The way we have been chasing decently and we back that. It's important to be aware of your strengths and try to keep playing to that."

"I think we have been playing well both in terms of batting and bowling. One change for us. Nitish Rana is out and Rinku Singh is in," he added.

When Asked Dhoni about his strategy for today, he said, "We wanted to bowl first as well. The wicket has been so good that the outfield seems a bit smaller."

"Otherwise, it has been a good venue. Need to improve on our death bowling, what's important for us is to bowl according to our field. That's the only concern for us. Same squad for us," he added.&nbsp;

Teams:

Kolkata (Playing XI): Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Rinku Singh, Shubman Gill, Andre Russell, Shivam Mavi, Piyush Chawla, Mitchell Johnson, Kuldeep Yadav

Chennai (Playing XI): Shane Watson, Faf du Plessis, Suresh Raina, Ambati Rayudu, MS Dhoni(w/c), Dwayne Bravo, Ravindra Jadeja, Karn Sharma, Harbhajan Singh, Lungi Ngidi, KM Asif

Their first encounter was won by the MS Dhoni-led side.

In the 33rd match of the IPL 2018, Kolkata won the toss and asked Chennai to bat first at the Eden Gardens. Shane Watson and Faf Du Plessis opened for Chennai and scored with the run rate of over 9 per over. Kolkata bowlers could not get a breakthrough in the initial overs and the batsmen did not face much resistance from the bowlers. Chennai ended the innings scoring 177 runs for the loss of 5 wickets. Dhoni contributed a significant 43 runs. Speaking after the toss, Karthik said, "We would like to bowl first. The way we have been chasing decently and we back that. It's important to be aware of your strengths and try to keep playing to that." "I think we have been playing well both in terms of batting and bowling. One change for us. Nitish Rana is out and Rinku Singh is in," he added. When Asked Dhoni about his strategy for today, he said, "We wanted to bowl first as well. The wicket has been so good that the outfield seems a bit smaller." "Otherwise, it has been a good venue. Need to improve on our death bowling, what's important for us is to bowl according to our field. That's the only concern for us. Same squad for us," he added. Teams: Kolkata (Playing XI): Chris Lynn, Sunil Narine, Robin Uthappa, Dinesh Karthik(w/c), Rinku Singh, Shubman Gill, Andre Russell, Shivam Mavi, Piyush Chawla, Mitchell Johnson, Kuldeep Yadav Chennai (Playing XI): Shane Watson, Faf du Plessis, Suresh Raina, Ambati Rayudu, MS Dhoni(w/c), Dwayne Bravo, Ravindra Jadeja, Karn Sharma, Harbhajan Singh, Lungi Ngidi, KM Asif

IPL 2018: MS Dhoni makes 43* off 25 as Chennai post 177 against Kolkata

Chennai is currently leading the eight-team table with 12 points from six wins out of eight games.

The Chennai skipper MS Dhoni has turned back the clock with his last three innings, two of them half centuries, adding to the fine run of imposing all-rounder Shane Watson.

The former 'Cool Captain of India'&nbsp;was currently seen spending time and clicking pictures with the ground staff on the International Worker's Day, yesterday.&nbsp;

The franchise's official Twitter handle uploaded few pictures of the staff members with Dhoni.

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A super happy <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/InternationalWorkersDay?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#InternationalWorkersDay</a> to each and everyone who contributes to the welfare of the good game. A big shout out to the ground staff in Chepauk and Pune! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/whistlepodu?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#whistlepodu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Yellove?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Yellove</a> ?? <a href="https://t.co/8AeQpQa0ru">pic.twitter.com/8AeQpQa0ru</a>
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/991258784306675717?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Following it, tweets gushed in from fans praising their favourite player.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://t.co/vNvMeeVzcW">pic.twitter.com/vNvMeeVzcW</a>
— Sujeet Raj (@imsujeetraj) <a href="https://twitter.com/imsujeetraj/status/991309126306217984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://t.co/wE4x44PHoz">pic.twitter.com/wE4x44PHoz</a>
— Sujeet Raj (@imsujeetraj) <a href="https://twitter.com/imsujeetraj/status/991309346775576577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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every fans love dhoni and dhoni love's his fans
— jugant tripathi (@BKategi) <a href="https://twitter.com/BKategi/status/991259865908695041?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Master cricketer in CSK
— @shisingh ❤ (@ashisingh_3) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashisingh_3/status/991259101232447488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Dhoni Bhai apko Mera salute
— Soubhagya Biswal (@Soubhag96656540) <a href="https://twitter.com/Soubhag96656540/status/991625895088566272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Chennai will lock horn with Kolkata at the Eden Garden today..&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Dhoni is currently averaging 71.50 with three half-centuries

Chennai is currently leading the eight-team table with 12 points from six wins out of eight games. The Chennai skipper MS Dhoni has turned back the clock with his last three innings, two of them half centuries, adding to the fine run of imposing all-rounder Shane Watson. The former 'Cool Captain of India' was currently seen spending time and clicking pictures with the ground staff on the International Worker's Day, yesterday. The franchise's official Twitter handle uploaded few pictures of the staff members with Dhoni. A super happy #InternationalWorkersDay to each and everyone who contributes to the welfare of the good game. A big shout out to the ground staff in Chepauk and Pune! #whistlepodu #Yellove ?? pic.twitter.com/8AeQpQa0ru — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) May 1, 2018 × Following it, tweets gushed in from fans praising their favourite player. pic.twitter.com/vNvMeeVzcW — Sujeet Raj (@imsujeetraj) May 1, 2018 × pic.twitter.com/wE4x44PHoz — Sujeet Raj (@imsujeetraj) May 1, 2018 × every fans love dhoni and dhoni love's his fans — jugant tripathi (@BKategi) May 1, 2018 × Master cricketer in CSK — @shisingh ❤ (@ashisingh_3) May 1, 2018 × Dhoni Bhai apko Mera salute — Soubhagya Biswal (@Soubhag96656540) May 2, 2018 × Chennai will lock horn with Kolkata at the Eden Garden today..

IPL 2018: MS Dhoni celebrated Labour Day with Pune ground staff, see photos

Dinesh Karthik-led Kolkata will be up against Chennai for the second time in this year's Indian Premier League (IPL).&nbsp;

Their first encounter was won by the Mahendra Singh Dhoni-led side by five wickets.

Both the teams won their last game so it automatically makes the match more intriguing and unpredictable.

So, let's take a look at the players expected to perform in today's big clash

1. Mahendra Singh Dhoni - The Chennai Skipper played a flawless inning against Delhi in the last game. He smashed a 22-ball-51 which included two fours and five sixes. When Chennai needed him the most to set a decent score,&nbsp; he stood up and played like a true captain to lead from the front. Not to forget, Dhoni is also the most successful captain in the ongoing IPL till now.&nbsp;

2. Shane Watson - Chennai opener is all pumped up for this game as he played some great innings in the ongoing league. While, on the other hand, he still needs to work on his bowling technique. In his last game against Delhi, he played an impeccable inning, where he scored 78 runs off 40 balls and poured big seven sixes helping Chennai to set a target above 200. He is definitely a player to look out for today.&nbsp;

3. Chris Lynn - The opening batsman of Kolkata returned to his form in the last game where he scored an unbeaten 52-ball-62 against Bangalore. An important player behind Kolkata's victory in the last game. He was also awarded the 'Man of the match'. He will be hoping to continue his form today as well to help Kolkata jump up in the league table.&nbsp;

4. Andre Russell - Kolkata's fast bowler swung three crucial wickets in the last game against Bangalore. He also played a massive inning in the previous game against Chennai. He recorded an unbeaten 88 runs off just 36 balls which included enormous 11 sixes. He is expected to perform same today when Kolkata faces Chennai for the second time at Eden Gardens.&nbsp;

5. Ambati Rayudu - Recently being displaced by Rishabh Pant for the 'Orange Cap', Rayudu will definitely play an inning today to regain his glory. He scored 24-ball-41 in the last game against Delhi. Consistently, maintaining his form in recent games, Rayudu becomes a must-watch player in today's big clash.&nbsp;

A very crucial match for Kolkata as they will be up against the table-toppers today. They stand a big chance to win the game and join Chennai and Hyderabad in the top three. Chennai, on the other hand, will play their best to maintain the top position.&nbsp;

Their first encounter was won by the Mahendra Singh Dhoni-led side by five wickets.

Dinesh Karthik-led Kolkata will be up against Chennai for the second time in this year's Indian Premier League (IPL). Their first encounter was won by the Mahendra Singh Dhoni-led side by five wickets. Both the teams won their last game so it automatically makes the match more intriguing and unpredictable. So, let's take a look at the players expected to perform in today's big clash 1. Mahendra Singh Dhoni - The Chennai Skipper played a flawless inning against Delhi in the last game. He smashed a 22-ball-51 which included two fours and five sixes. When Chennai needed him the most to set a decent score, he stood up and played like a true captain to lead from the front. Not to forget, Dhoni is also the most successful captain in the ongoing IPL till now. 2. Shane Watson - Chennai opener is all pumped up for this game as he played some great innings in the ongoing league. While, on the other hand, he still needs to work on his bowling technique. In his last game against Delhi, he played an impeccable inning, where he scored 78 runs off 40 balls and poured big seven sixes helping Chennai to set a target above 200. He is definitely a player to look out for today. 3. Chris Lynn - The opening batsman of Kolkata returned to his form in the last game where he scored an unbeaten 52-ball-62 against Bangalore. An important player behind Kolkata's victory in the last game. He was also awarded the 'Man of the match'. He will be hoping to continue his form today as well to help Kolkata jump up in the league table. 4. Andre Russell - Kolkata's fast bowler swung three crucial wickets in the last game against Bangalore. He also played a massive inning in the previous game against Chennai. He recorded an unbeaten 88 runs off just 36 balls which included enormous 11 sixes. He is expected to perform same today when Kolkata faces Chennai for the second time at Eden Gardens. 5. Ambati Rayudu - Recently being displaced by Rishabh Pant for the 'Orange Cap', Rayudu will definitely play an inning today to regain his glory. He scored 24-ball-41 in the last game against Delhi. Consistently, maintaining his form in recent games, Rayudu becomes a must-watch player in today's big clash. A very crucial match for Kolkata as they will be up against the table-toppers today. They stand a big chance to win the game and join Chennai and Hyderabad in the top three. Chennai, on the other hand, will play their best to maintain the top position.

IPL 2018: Players to watch out for in Chennai vs Kolkata clash

Skipper MS Dhoni led his team from the front to defeat Delhi in yesterday's game in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL).

The Chennai skipper was supported by another brilliant batsman&nbspAmbati Rayudu, who once again impressed with the bat yesterday.

But it was something else which made the match a memorable one.&nbsp

On Monday, Dhoni and Rayudu were again at it, adding 79 runs in just six overs to reach a step closer to victory over Delhi.&nbsp

However, on the penultimate ball of Chennai innings, an incident took place that led to a laugh riot.

Trent Boult, bowling the last over for Delhi, delivered a bouncer to Dhoni who went for a pull-shot.&nbsp

The skipper only managed to get a slight edge with Rishabh Pant putting down a tough chance down the leg side.

Between all this, Rayudu decided to sneak in a single but Dhoni was not aware of it. &nbsp

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Ambati Rayudu's comical run-out <a href="https://t.co/hzXuq3qDOd">https://t.co/hzXuq3qDOd</a>
— Ashish Rana (@ARthegreat1) <a href="https://twitter.com/ARthegreat1/status/991166223541927937?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Rayudu even reached the striker's end but Dhoni asked him to go back.&nbsp

The 32-year-old Rayudu tried to scramble back and get back to the non-striker's end but Boult threw down the stumps, ending his stay. 
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Dhoni ended up being unbeaten on 51 off 22 balls as Chennai posted a big 211 for four.&nbsp 
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The Chennai skipper was supported by another brilliant batsman Ambati Rayudu

Skipper MS Dhoni led his team from the front to defeat Delhi in yesterday's game in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL). The Chennai skipper was supported by another brilliant batsman&nbspAmbati Rayudu, who once again impressed with the bat yesterday. But it was something else which made the match a memorable one. On Monday, Dhoni and Rayudu were again at it, adding 79 runs in just six overs to reach a step closer to victory over Delhi. However, on the penultimate ball of Chennai innings, an incident took place that led to a laugh riot. Trent Boult, bowling the last over for Delhi, delivered a bouncer to Dhoni who went for a pull-shot. The skipper only managed to get a slight edge with Rishabh Pant putting down a tough chance down the leg side. Between all this, Rayudu decided to sneak in a single but Dhoni was not aware of it. Ambati Rayudu's comical run-out https://t.co/hzXuq3qDOd — Ashish Rana (@ARthegreat1) May 1, 2018 × Rayudu even reached the striker's end but Dhoni asked him to go back. The 32-year-old Rayudu tried to scramble back and get back to the non-striker's end but Boult threw down the stumps, ending his stay. Dhoni ended up being unbeaten on 51 off 22 balls as Chennai posted a big 211 for four.

Watch: Dhoni, Ambati Rayudu's comical run-out during Chennai vs Delhi clash

The 30th game of the Indian Premier League (IPL) will be played between confident Chennai and resurgent Delhi on Monday.

Tipped to possess the most destructive batting lineup this season, Delhi have found the going tough and have lost five out of seven whereas Chennai, ridiculed as an 'old outfit', have just done the exact opposite to be placed second with ten points.

Chennai have been ruthless this season managing to win five out of seven matches played. But if we talk about the two teams, then after Gautam Gambhir decided to step down as captain, the resurgent Delhi defeated Kolkata by 55 runs.

Opener Prithvi Shaw and new skipper Shreyas Iyer smashed a half-century each to set a mammoth total of 219.

But, Iyer has to plan new strategies to survive this IPL and especially to defeat Chennai today.

The bowlers also performed against Kolkata with Trent Boult, Avesh Khan and Amit Mishra taking two wickets apiece.

Delhi will have to bowl out of their skin if they want to restrict the star-studded Chennai batting line-up to a paltry total.&nbsp;

Chennai, on the other hand, would be equally keen to get back to winning ways after they lost their last match to Mumbai by 8 wickets.&nbsp;

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Ambati Raydu and Suresh Raina made 45 and 75 runs respectively to help Chennai seta decent score.

But it is their bowling department which failed to swing wickets in their favour.

And Dhoni needs to fix this problem to defeat rejuvenated Delhi.

So overall, today's game will be between Chennai's experience vs Delhi's youth. &nbsp; 
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The 30th game of the Indian Premier League (IPL) will be played between confident Chennai and resurgent Delhi on Monday. Tipped to possess the most destructive batting lineup this season, Delhi have found the going tough and have lost five out of seven whereas Chennai, ridiculed as an 'old outfit', have just done the exact opposite to be placed second with ten points. Chennai have been ruthless this season managing to win five out of seven matches played. But if we talk about the two teams, then after Gautam Gambhir decided to step down as captain, the resurgent Delhi defeated Kolkata by 55 runs. Opener Prithvi Shaw and new skipper Shreyas Iyer smashed a half-century each to set a mammoth total of 219. But, Iyer has to plan new strategies to survive this IPL and especially to defeat Chennai today. The bowlers also performed against Kolkata with Trent Boult, Avesh Khan and Amit Mishra taking two wickets apiece. Delhi will have to bowl out of their skin if they want to restrict the star-studded Chennai batting line-up to a paltry total. Chennai, on the other hand, would be equally keen to get back to winning ways after they lost their last match to Mumbai by 8 wickets. × Ambati Raydu and Suresh Raina made 45 and 75 runs respectively to help Chennai seta decent score. But it is their bowling department which failed to swing wickets in their favour. And Dhoni needs to fix this problem to defeat rejuvenated Delhi. So overall, today's game will be between Chennai's experience vs Delhi's youth.

IPL 2018: Match preview of Chennai vs Delhi

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