Chennai: In a crucial encounter at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Wednesday, the Punjab Kings secured a vital victory over the Chennai Super Kings by 7 wickets, keeping their hopes of making it to the playoffs alive in the ongoing IPL 2024 season.
Chasing a target of 163, Punjab Kings exhibited a disciplined batting performance, reaching the target with 13 balls to spare. The foundation for their successful chase was laid by opener Jonny Bairstow, who played a blistering knock of 46 runs off just 30 deliveries. Bairstow’s aggressive innings set the tone for Punjab Kings’ pursuit of victory.
Rilee Rossouw provided crucial support to Bairstow, contributing 43 runs off 23 balls to keep the scoreboard ticking for Punjab Kings. Their partnership ensured that Punjab Kings never lost control of the chase, eventually reaching the target in 17.5 overs.
Earlier in the match, Chennai Super Kings posted a competitive total of 162 for 7 in their allotted 20 overs, after being put into bat first. Opener Ruturaj Gaikwad was the standout performer for CSK, scoring a fighting half-century, with 62 runs coming off 48 deliveries. Gaikwad’s innings provided the necessary impetus to CSK’s innings, despite facing some tight bowling from Punjab Kings.
The bowling effort from Punjab Kings was spearheaded by Rahul Chahar and Harpreet Brar, who both picked up two wickets apiece. Chahar finished with figures of 2 for 16 in his four overs, while Brar also impressed with figures of 2 for 17 in his quota of four overs.
In a dramatic turn of events, MS Dhoni was run out on the final ball of the innings, marking the first time he was dismissed in IPL 2024. Dhoni’s dismissal added to the excitement of the match and provided a crucial breakthrough for Punjab Kings.
With this victory, Punjab Kings have boosted their chances of qualifying for the playoffs.