CSK vs GT, IPL 2023 Final: Ravindra Jadeja Hits Last-Ball Boundary to Lead Chennai Super Kings to Fifth Title

CSK vs GT, IPL 2023 Final: Ravindra Jadeja Hits Last-Ball Boundary to Lead Chennai Super Kings to Fifth Title

In a thrilling finale of the 2023 Indian Premier League (IPL), the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) emerged victorious against the Gujarat Titans (GT) by five wickets, securing their fifth IPL title. The highly anticipated match, which was reduced to 15 overs per side due to rain, showcased remarkable performances and culminated in a last-ball boundary hit by Ravindra Jadeja to seal the win for CSK.

Picture courtesy: Indian Premiere League Twitter

The standout performer for the Gujarat Titans was Sai Sudharsan, a 23-year-old opener who played a sensational knock of 96 runs off just 47 balls. Sudharsan's explosive innings included eight fours and six towering sixes, and he formed a crucial 122-run partnership with Wriddhiman Saha, who contributed 54 runs off 39 deliveries.

CSK's bowlers put in a commendable effort to restrict the Gujarat Titans to a total of 214. Mohit Sharma, in particular, impressed with his bowling skills, picking up two wickets while conceding 27 runs.

CSK faced a challenging chase at the start, losing early wickets with Ruturaj Gaikwad (10 off 12) and Devon Conway (20 off 13) departing quickly. However, Ambati Rayudu (47 off 23) and Shivam Dube (35 off 18) revived CSK's innings with a crucial 67-run partnership.

As the game approached its climax, CSK required 20 runs from the last three overs, and a tie seemed imminent. However, in a stunning turn of events, Ravindra Jadeja, the hero of the match, unleashed his prowess. Unbeaten on 17 runs off just six balls, Jadeja exhibited nerves of steel as he struck a six and a four off the final two deliveries, securing a sensational victory for CSK.

Picture Courtesy: K.R. DEEPAK/ THE HINDU

This triumph marked CSK's fifth IPL title, equalling the record held by the Mumbai Indians for the most championships in the tournament's history. It was a fitting end to an unforgettable season for CSK, who finished atop the league stage.

Ravindra Jadeja's exceptional performance earned him the well-deserved title of Player of the Match. His unbeaten knock of 17 runs off six balls, which included the crucial boundaries on the last two deliveries, proved pivotal in CSK's triumph. Jadeja's consistent all-round performances throughout the tournament, comprising 260 runs and 18 wickets in 16 matches, earned him the prestigious Player of the Tournament award.

The victory held immense significance for CSK, as it marked their return to the IPL throne after a five-year gap since their previous triumph in 2018. Moreover, it served as a momentous occasion for MS Dhoni, the iconic former Indian captain. Having announced his retirement from international cricket in August 2022, Dhoni hinted at stepping down as CSK's captain at the end of the 2023 season. However, he surprised fans by expressing his intention to continue leading CSK in the upcoming season.

Picture Courtesy: K.R. DEEPAK/ THE HINDU

The win against the Gujarat Titans represented a fitting conclusion to Dhoni's IPL captaincy career. Having led CSK to three consecutive titles in his initial three seasons as captain, Dhoni has now accumulated a remarkable tally of five championships with the franchise. Widely regarded as one of the greatest cricketers of all time, he stands as the most successful captain in IPL history.

The victory over the Gujarat Titans also brought immense joy and relief to CSK's passionate fan base. With a substantial and devoted following in India, CSK's fans eagerly awaited another title triumph for five years. The win provided a sense of relief and instilled hope that CSK will continue to challenge for more titles in the years ahead, bolstering the team's enduring legacy.