In the first qualifier match between GT and CSK in IPL 2023, MS Dhoni showcases his strategic brilliance by orchestrating the dismissal of Hardik Pandya.

During the IPL match between Gujarat Titans and Chennai Super Kings at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on May 23, MS Dhoni displayed his tactical prowess by engineering the dismissal of Hardik Pandya. Prior to Maheesh Theekshana’s second-to-last delivery in the sixth over, the 41-year-old captain made a brilliant decision to modify the fielding setup, placing Ravindra Jadeja in the backward point position. On the very next delivery, Pandya attempted a cut shot that went straight into Jadeja’s hands, resulting in his departure from the crease after scoring only seven runs off eight balls.

Dhoni’s strategic move received widespread acclaim on social media, with the video of the incident quickly going viral. Additionally, during the same over, CSK substitute fielder Subhranshu Senapati appeared to be under pressure, but Dhoni was seen encouraging him to remain calm. Soon after, Senapati executed a direct hit that led to the dismissal of Darshan Nalkande.

In the end, Chennai Super Kings emerged victorious by 15 runs, securing their place in the IPL final for the tenth time. Batting first, CSK posted a total of 172 runs in their allotted 20 overs, with Ruturaj Gaikwad (60 runs off 44 balls) and Devon Conway (40 runs off 34 balls) providing a strong opening partnership. Ambati Rayudu (17 runs off 9 balls) and Ravindra Jadeja (22 runs off 16 balls) also made valuable contributions to set a competitive target.

During the chase, the Gujarat Titans struggled as wickets fell at regular intervals. Shubman Gill top-scored with 42 runs off 38 deliveries before being dismissed by Deepak Chahar. Despite a spirited effort from Rashid Khan (30 runs off 16 balls) towards the end, the Gujarat Titans fell short of the target, giving Chennai Super Kings a comfortable victory.

News Source