MS Dhoni’s CSK Shatter 6-Year Jinx with Dramatic Win Over KKR in IPL Thriller
In a heart-pounding clash at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) kept their IPL playoff dreams alive by clinching a nail-biting two-wicket victory over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Wednesday. This triumph not only revitalized CSK’s campaign but also effectively knocked the defending champions out of playoff contention, marking a significant turning point in the tournament.
Chasing a challenging target of 180 runs, CSK found themselves in dire straits at 60 for 5. However, a sensational counterattack led by Dewald Brevis, who smashed a blistering 52 off just 25 balls, turned the tide. Shivam Dube played a crucial supporting role with a gritty 45, while the evergreen MS Dhoni, unbeaten on 17, showcased his legendary finishing skills to guide CSK over the line with just two balls to spare. This victory marked the end of a six-year wait for CSK to successfully chase a target of 180 or more in the IPL, breaking an unwanted record of 12 consecutive losses in such chases since 2019.
KKR’s bowling attack fought valiantly to defend their total, with Vaibhav Arora leading the charge by claiming 3 wickets for 48 runs. Harshit Rana (2/43) and mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy (2/18) also made significant contributions, but it wasn’t enough to stop the resurgent CSK side on a dew-laden evening that favored the chasing team.
Earlier in the match, after opting to bat first, KKR posted a competitive 179 for 6 in their 20 overs. Captain Ajinkya Rahane anchored the innings with a well-crafted 48, while explosive all-rounder Andre Russell provided the late fireworks with a quickfire 38. Manish Pandey, unbeaten on 36, ensured KKR reached a formidable total. For CSK, Afghan spinner Noor Ahmad was the standout performer with the ball, dismantling KKR’s middle order with a remarkable four-wicket haul.
This chase of 180 now stands as the second-highest successful run chase in IPL history when a team has been 75 or fewer for 5 wickets. Only Delhi Capitals surpass this feat, having chased down 210 after being 65 for 5 against Lucknow Super Giants earlier this season in Vizag. CSK’s long-standing drought in such high-pressure chases—previously matched by Royal Challengers Bengaluru (12 losses from 2019-2023) and exceeded only by Punjab Kings (15 losses between 2015-2021)—makes this victory a historic milestone for the franchise.
As the IPL enters its business end, CSK’s resurgence under the cool-headed leadership of MS Dhoni sends a strong message to their rivals. With their playoff hopes now brighter than ever, the ‘Yellow Army’ will look to build on this momentum. For KKR, however, this defeat marks a bitter end to their title defense, leaving them to reflect on missed opportunities in a season of highs and lows.