Chennai Super Kings (CSK) secured their fifth IPL title, equaling Mumbai Indians’ record, by defeating Gujarat Titans (GT) in the final. CSK won by five wickets (DLS method) in a rain-affected match, with Sai Sudharsan’s brilliant knock of 96 off 47 balls propelling GT to 214/4. CSK chased down the revised target of 171 in 15 overs, with Ravindra Jadeja’s last-ball heroics sealing the memorable victory. Strategic planning and execution is the secret weapons of CSK’s coaching staff. Here we try to list down : 5 Keys to CSK’s Success in IPL 2023.
- The Ruturaj-Conway Combo
CSK’s opening pair of Ruturaj Gaikwad and Devon Conway played a crucial role in the team’s successful season. With solid and quick starts, they contributed 849 runs together at an average of 56.60, forming the second-highest partnership of the season. Ruturaj and Conway’s consistent performances put CSK in a favourable position throughout the campaign.
- Flexible Middle Order
CSK’s middle order comprising Ambati Rayudu, Ajinkya Rahane, Shivam Dube, Moeen Ali, Ravindra Jadeja, and MS Dhoni brought immense flexibility to their batting lineup. This allowed the team to handle different situations effectively, with each player stepping up when required.
- Ben Stokes’ Injury becomes a blessing in disguise
The absence of Ben Stokes from the lineup was a blessing in disguise for CSK. It allowed Ajinkya Rahane to rejuvenate himself and become a formidable middle-order batsman, scoring 326 runs at a strike of 172.49. Additionally, Shivam Dube showcased impressive power-hitting skills, accumulating 418 runs at a strike rate of 158.33, compensating for Stokes’ absence and contributing to CSK’s success.
- Death Bowling Brilliance
The introduction of the Impact Player rule in IPL 2023 benefitted CSK, and Matheesha Pathirana emerged as a trump card in the death overs. With an identical bowling action to Lasith Malinga, Pathirana took all his 18 wickets in the death overs, making a significant impact with his economical and wicket-taking bowling. Tushar Deshpande also played a vital role as the highest wicket-taker for CSK.
- MS Dhoni’s Unparalleled Leadership
Despite limited playing time, MS Dhoni’s captaincy and strategic insight were crucial to CSK’s success. He assigned specific roles to the batters and displayed exceptional tactical awareness with his field placements. Dhoni’s leadership skills and wicket-keeping reaffirmed his status as one of the best captains in the game.
Thus, CSK’s fifth IPL title resulted from their strong opening partnership, flexible middle order, bowling brilliance, and Dhoni’s leadership.
