 |
|
MS Dhoni's Last IPL Outing at Chepauk: Medals, Lap of Honour, and a Visit from Raina
The Chepauk crowd witnessed a memorable moment as the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) played their final home game of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season. The defending champions, led by MS Dhoni, emerged victorious against the Rajasthan Royals, securing a comfortable 5-wicket win and moving up to third place on the points table.
Following their convincing victory, the CSK players were honored with gold medals in recognition of their efforts. They then proceeded to perform a lap of honor at the iconic M Chidambaram Stadium, expressing their gratitude to the fans for their unwavering support. This marked the 50th home win for CSK at Chepauk and also their final league game in this year's competition.
Prior to the game, the CSK franchise had taken to Instagram to request fans to stay back after the match for 'something special.' The fans heeded the call, and the defending champions rewarded them with a satisfying win, along with giving away tennis balls during their lap of honor.
Adding to the special occasion, former CSK all-rounder Suresh Raina joined his old teammates on the field. He shared a warm embrace with Dhoni and, at the legendary wicketkeeper-batter's request, smashed a ball towards the crowd.
While CSK still needs to win their final away game to seal a play-off berth, opener Ruturaj Gaikwad expressed his delight at capping off their home league engagements with a comfortable win. He described it as a 'wonderful feeling.'
CSK's victory keeps them in contention for a place in the IPL play-offs. The defending champions chased down a target of 142 with 10 balls to spare on a tricky surface, despite the drama of Ravindra Jadeja being given out for obstructing the field.
Skipper Gaikwad was the star for CSK with the bat, remaining unbeaten on a 41-ball 42. He expressed his preference for playing on such wickets, as they bring the team's spinners into play and make it riskier for batters to hit sixes.
With the regular season coming to an end, CSK will now turn their attention to their final away game, knowing that a win will secure their place in the play-offs. The tournament continues to provide excitement and drama, and fans can stay updated with the latest news and updates on IPL 2024, including the top contenders for the Orange and Purple Caps, the complete schedule, the points table, and the players with the most sixes, fours, and fifties.
Source: Medals to Players, Lap of Honour, Dhoni Meets Raina: MSD’s Last IPL Outing at Chepauk?