What Happened Last Time When MS Dhoni-Led CSK Faced Gujarat Titans?


Jadeja celebrating after winning the IPL 2023 final (iplt20.com)Jadeja celebrating after winning the IPL 2023 final (iplt20.com)

Ravindra Jadeja gave a cinematic ending to the last Indian Premier League (IPL 2023), scoring 10 runs from the last 2 balls against Gujarat Titans, clinching the title for Chennai Super Kings.

 Prior to this, there were rumors of Jadeja leaving the CSK franchise, especially after he was stripped from CSK captaincy in 2022. However, he stood by the team and led them to victory, securing the trophy. 

In the 2023 IPL final between CSK and GT at Ahmedabad, the scheduled match date of May 28th was entirely washed out due to rain, without a single ball bowled. 

On the backup day, rain continued, but when it finally stopped, Gujarat Titans opted to bat first. Chennai's local talent Sai Sudharsan showcased his prowess with a stunning innings, scoring 96 runs off just 47 balls. Supported by contributions from Saha, Gill, and captain Pandya, GT posted an imposing total of 214 runs in their allotted 20 overs.

As rain resumed, CSK's target was revised to 171 runs from 15 overs under the Duckworth-Lewis method. 

The innings started explosively with Conway and Gaikwad leading the charge. However, the Afghan spinner Noor Ahmad struck back, causing trouble for CSK. 

Amidst the pressure, Ambati Rayudu playing his last IPL game emerged as the savior, playing a crucial cameo of 19 runs off just 8 balls. 

Meanwhile, the mood among CSK fans soured when MS Dhoni was dismissed without scoring, prompting concerns that this might mark Dhoni's final appearance for the team. 


Jadeja's heroics saved the night for CSK

In the final over of the game, CSK required 13 runs off 6 balls with Shivam Dube and Jadeja at the crease. Hardik's choice to bowl the last over was Mohit Sharma. 

Mohit started strong, conceding just 3 runs in the first 4 balls. As everyone anticipated victory for GT, Jadeja turned the tables, smashing a six and a four off the final 2 balls, securing a fairytale win for CSK. 

Adding to the excitement, Dhoni reassured fans that this wasn't his final IPL, promising to return.

A repeat of the final is unfolding, but this time at Chepauk, CSK's fortress. CSK will aim to recreate the magic of that memorable day, while GT seeks vengeance for their loss. Both teams enter the match with confidence, having won their first games of the season.