In a thrilling encounter at the Wankhede Stadium, the Gujarat Titans (GT) emerged victorious over the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by 35 runs, keeping their playoff hopes alive. Captain Shubman Gill and B Sai Sudharsan played pivotal roles in GT’s triumph, smashing scintillating centuries.
Gill, the GT skipper, displayed his exceptional batting prowess, scoring 104 runs off just 55 deliveries. His innings was adorned with nine boundaries and six maximums, showcasing his power and precision. Sudharsan, on the other hand, notched his maiden IPL century, amassing 103 runs off 51 balls. His knock was equally impressive, featuring five boundaries and seven sixes.
The duo’s 210-run partnership, the highest for any wicket in the IPL this season, laid the foundation for GT’s massive total of 231/3. Their partnership also equaled the highest-ever IPL opening partnership set by Quinton de Kock and KL Rahul.
In contrast, CSK’s openers failed to make an impact, with both being dismissed with just two runs on the board. Skipper Rituraj Gaikwad, their leading run-scorer this season, was also sent packing for a duck, leaving CSK reeling at 10/3.
Daryl Mitchell and Moeen Ali attempted to revive CSK’s innings with a 109-run partnership. Mitchell scored 63 runs, while Ali contributed 56. However, veteran Mohit Sharma’s three-wicket haul, including the dismissals of Mitchell and Ali, proved to be a turning point.
Rashid Khan also played a crucial role, claiming the wickets of Ravindra Jadeja and Mitchell Santner. Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s late cameo of 26 runs, including three sixes, was not enough to prevent CSK from falling short.
The victory propelled GT from the bottom of the table to the eighth spot, while CSK remained in fourth place. The win also boosted GT’s net run rate, giving them a better chance of qualifying for the playoffs.
