KKR vs CSK: MS Dhoni's tactical masterclass orchestrates N Jagadeesan’s dismissal to dent KKR’s chase

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) registered their biggest win of the IPL 2023 season against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), emerging victorious by 49 runs at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata. However, it was the tactical decisions made by skipper MS Dhoni that led to CSK’s victory during the chase.

Notably, CSK recorded the highest total of the ongoing season, with a score of 235 runs in the first innings. Ajinkya Rahane (71*), Devon Conway (56 runs), and Shivam Dube (50 runs) played sensational knocks to power CSK towards a strong first innings total.

In the midst of the chase, KKR lost their opening duo of Narayan Jagadeesan and Sunil Narine for a combined score of one run. While Akash Singh castled Narine to dislodge his off-stump, KKR’s troubles continued as Jagadeesan was sent packing in the following over.

Tushar Deshpande bowled a length delivery and got some movement with the ball moving away, outside off, upon which Jagadeesan sliced it in the air. However, Jadeja sprinted from deep third man, slid on his knees and pouched the ball to send Jagadeesan back to the pavilion. Impressively, it was the CSK skipper who had placed the fielder at deep third in a move to orchestrate Jagadeesan’s dismissal. 

CSK sit atop points table

Following the early dismissals, KKR’s Jason Roy played out an impeccable innings as he took the rival bowling unit to the cleaners. The flamboyant batter clobbered five maximums and as many boundaries to score 61 off just 26 balls.

Despite the efforts, KKR eventually succumbed under pressure as the required run rate kept shooting up at a rapid pace. CSK won the run-fest at the Eden Gardens by 49 runs, making it their biggest win of the season. In doing so, MS Dhoni’s Super Kings took the first place on the points table with five wins in seven matches and ten points. The yellow outfit will play Rajasthan Royals on Thursday, April 27 in Jaipur and will be gunning to keep their momentum intact.