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Dhoni and Spinners Shine as CSK Snap Losing Streak with a Gritty Win Over LSG
The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) showcased nerves of steel and tactical brilliance to end their five-match losing streak with a thrilling five-wicket win over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the Ekana Stadium. Backed by their spinners and a match-finishing partnership between MS Dhoni and Shivam Dube, CSK successfully chased down 166 with just three balls to spare.
Spinners Set the Tone: Jadeja and Noor Restrict LSG
Middle Overs Masterclass
After opting to bowl first on a pitch that offered variable bounce, CSK turned the tide in their favor during the middle overs. Ravindra Jadeja, returning to form, picked up two vital wickets, including Mitchell Marsh and the dangerous Ayush Badoni. Noor Ahmad was even more economical, returning exceptional figures of 3-0-10-0, applying pressure with every delivery.
The spin duo stifled LSG’s middle-order momentum, especially during overs 7–15, allowing just 67 runs in that phase. LSG, who were hoping to capitalize after a steady start, found themselves shackled, courtesy of tight lines and clever field placements from the CSK bowlers.
PowerPlay Contrast: Rasheed Impresses on Debut
CSK’s Explosive Start
CSK dominated the PowerPlay with debutant Shaik Rasheed leading the charge. His fearless strokeplay included six well-timed boundaries, helping CSK reach 59/1 after six overs—far superior to LSG’s 42/2. Rasheed’s ability to take on Akash Deep and Shardul Thakur provided CSK a head start in the chase.
Rachin Ravindra also chipped in with a fluent 25, setting the tone for the rest of the innings. The foundation laid by the openers played a crucial role in CSK’s successful chase.
Dhoni-Dube Show: Calm Finish in High Tension
Death Overs Drama
As the chase reached a nervy phase, MS Dhoni and Shivam Dube displayed calm under pressure. Coming together when CSK needed 56 off the final five overs, the pair stitched an unbeaten 57-run partnership.
While Dube rotated strike smartly and punished the loose deliveries, Dhoni provided the finishing touches. Boundaries flowed in the final three overs, including a powerful forehand smash by Dhoni off Shardul Thakur and a waist-high full toss that Dube sent into the stands. With 12 runs needed off the last 12 balls, CSK sealed the win with confidence.
LSG’s Inconsistent Batting: Pant Leads with a Slow-Burning Knock
Rishabh Pant was the lone warrior for LSG, scoring 63 off 49 balls—a gritty innings that oscillated between struggle and flair. Tied down by Noor Ahmad’s economical spell, Pant later unleashed big shots against pace to lift LSG to 166/7. However, LSG’s failure to maintain momentum across phases cost them the match.
What’s Next?
Chennai Super Kings will head to Mumbai aiming to do a double over their arch-rivals Mumbai Indians in their next fixture. Meanwhile, LSG will take a short break before traveling to Jaipur for a high-stakes clash against Rajasthan Royals.
Key Stats and Match Summary
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Match Result: CSK (168/5) beat LSG (166/7) by 5 wickets
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Top Performers: Shivam Dube (43*), MS Dhoni (26*), Ravindra Jadeja (2-24), Rishabh Pant (63)
Official IPL Website Match Summary
