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Chennai Super Kings (CSK) registered a significant away win in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 by defeating the formidable Mumbai Indians (MI) at their stronghold by 20 runs, the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday (April 14). While CSK displayed commendable performances in both their bowling and batting departments, it was their exceptional fielding efforts that truly set them apart, with the dismissal of Surya Kumar Yadav serving as a prime example of their prowess in the field.
CSK’s exceptional fielding
Chasing a daunting target of 207 runs, MI’s opening pair of Rohit Sharma and Ishan Kishan got off to a flying start, adding a rapid 70 runs in just seven overs. Sensing the need for a breakthrough, CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad turned to his Sri Lankan ace bowler, Matheesha Pathirana, who didn’t disappoint, removing the dangerous Kishan with the first ball of his over.
However, the threat still loomed large with Surya Kumar, who was riding high on a destructive innings in the previous match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), stepping up to the crease. Nevertheless, in a remarkable display of fielding prowess, Mustafizur Rahman pulled off a sensational juggling catch , shifting the momentum firmly in favour of CSK.
Also READ: IPL 2024: Ruturaj Gaikwad reveals the special name given to Matheesha Pathirana by CSK teammates
Mustafizur Rahman’s sensational catch
On the third ball of Pathirana’s over, which was Surya Kumar’s second overall, Pathirana delivered a short-pitched delivery wide of off-stump. Surya Kumar, recognizing the opportunity to capitalize on the pace and bounce of the delivery, attempted to execute the audacious uppercut shot, aiming to send the ball soaring over the boundary ropes.
In a moment of sheer athleticism and determination, Mustafizur positioned himself skilfully at the edge of the boundary, anticipating the trajectory of the ball. As the ball soared towards him, Mustafizur leapt into action, timing his jump impeccably to meet the descending ball with both hands. Nonetheless, the force and momentum of the catch threatened to overwhelm him, causing him to lose balance and stumble perilously close to the boundary line. Undeterred by the precarious situation, Mustafizur displayed extraordinary presence of mind and agility.
Mustafizur expertly scooped the ball into the air even as he teetered on the brink of the boundary. With remarkable dexterity and composure, Mustafizur swiftly repositioned himself, leaping back into the field of play to complete the catch and secured the ball firmly in both hands, proving successful in his audacious attempt despite the challenging circumstances.
Here’s the video:
Rahman adding some fizz in the field with that catch 💨#MIvCSK #TATAIPL #IPLonJioCinema #IPLinTamil pic.twitter.com/JfoRNYLpRg
— JioCinema (@JioCinema) April 14, 2024
Pathirana’s bowling performance outshines Rohit Sharma’s century
After that Patirana continued to apply pressure on the MI batters, and despite Rohit’s valiant century off 61 balls, it was not enough to prevent Chennai from clinching victory by 20 runs in the end. Pathirana emerged as the standout bowler for Chennai, finishing with figures of 4/28 in his four overs. He was further named Player of the Match for his excellent bowling display.
MS Dhoni’s destructive cameo for CSK
Earlier in the game, Chennai rode on a fifty-plus knock from Gaikwad and explosive batting from Shivam Dube to set a formidable total of over 180 runs. However, it was the finishing touch provided by the talismanic former skipper MS Dhoni that proved to be the difference-maker, as his destructive cameo of 20 runs off just 4 balls, including three consecutive sixes off MI skipper Hardik Pandya, propelled the side past the 200 run mark and ultimately proved decisive in securing victory.
