In the first match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) defeated Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) by six wickets at the MA Chidambaram stadium in Chennai.
Faf du Plessis won the toss and asked CSK to field first. The decision looked solid at the start but soon backfired as RCB lost three quick wickets in the powerplay itself. Mustafizur Rahman was the star of the evening as he plucked two wickets right in his first over. CSK, post powerplay, were very strict with their economy, except for the last few overs, which helped them restrict the visitors to 173/6 after 20 overs.
In the chase, the home team’s new skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad (15) had a decent outing, while on the other hand, debutant Rachin Ravindra (37) showcased his brilliance and struck a quickfire knock to give CSK a strong start. With three fours and three sixes, the Kiwi batter’s fearless knock surely has given a good teaser of what he can provide in upcoming matches. Furthermore, in the middle overs, veteran Ajinkya Rahane (27) and Daryl Mitchell (22) also contributed valuable runs, which gave cushion to other lower-order batters. It was Shivam Dube (34*) show at the Chidambaram stadium as he guided his side over the victory line. Ravindra Jadeja (25*) also contributed valuable runs, which helped CSK finish the game with seven balls to spare.
du Plessis (35) began the night with some fireworks for RCB while Virat Kohli (21) aimed to stick longer at the crease. The skipper played at an explosive strike rate of 152 and hammered eight fours. The knock, however, would be called a cameo one as the Proteas-born batter couldn’t capitalise on his fierce start. Anuj Rawat (48) was another hit story for RCB as he batted aggressively towards the end. Batting at the strike rate of 192, the southpaw hit four fours and three sixes. With him, Dinesh Karthik (38*) also had a handy inning, which helped RCB reach a respectable total.
Fizz Rahman was smart with his change of pace, which helped him get four wickets at an economy rate of just 7.2. Deepak Chahar also got a wicket. Notably, Jadeja also was clinical with the ball, as he only conceded 21 runs in his four overs.
Fof RCB with the ball, Cameron Green scalped two wickets while one wicket each was taken by Yash Dayal and Karn Sharma.
Following this win, CSK have opened their points tally with comfortable two points.
Scorecard:
Royal Challengers Bangalore: 173/6, Overs 20, Anuj Rawat 48, Mustafizur Rahman 4/29
Chennai Super Kings: 176/4, Overs 18.4, Rachin Ravindra 37, Cameron Green 2/27