NEW DELHI: It’s not often that bowlers dominate in a format known for big hitting, but that’s exactly what happened at Chepauk on Sunday as Gujarat Titans edged out Chennai Super Kings. On a pitch that offered extra bounce, the GT bowlers kept things tight and restricted CSK to 158/7.
Batting first, CSK never managed to get going. Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad battled and remained unbeaten with 74 off 60 balls, hitting six fours and four sixes. However, he lacked strong support from the other side.
GT pacer Mohammed Siraj set the tone early on with his bounce and accuracy. Sanju Samson scored 11 and reached his milestone of 5000 IPL runs but could not convert his outing. Kagiso Rabada also contributed with key wickets as CSK’s batsmen struggled to adapt to the conditions.
Sudharsan leads the chase
In reply, GT comfortably chased down the target, thanks to a brilliant knock from Sai Sudharsan. He scored 87 off 46 balls, showing how to bat intelligently on a tricky surface by choosing the right balls to attack.
He was well supported by captain Shubman Gill, who made 33 off 23 balls. The duo added 58 runs for the first wicket, giving GT a good start and putting pressure on CSK early in the chase.
After Gill’s dismissal, Sudharsan continued to dominate, hitting seven sixes and keeping the scoreboard moving. Jos Buttler then finished the job with an unbeaten 39, while GT reached the target with 20 balls to spare.
The clinical ending enhances the GT
CSK’s bowlers struggled to contain the flow of runs, with only Noor Ahmad and Akeal Hosein picking up a wicket each. GT hitters showed a better understanding of the pitch, which made the difference.
With this win, Gujarat Titans moved up the table and kept their campaign on track, while CSK had to reflect on the missed opportunities.