Rajasthan Royals (RR) edged out Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by six runs in a nail-biting match at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati on Sunday, March 30. This victory marked RR’s first win of the IPL 2025 season, while CSK faced their second consecutive defeat.
CSK fails to chase the set target
The match was characterized by dramatic swings in momentum, with RR posting a competitive total of 182 runs for 9 wickets, thanks to a blistering 81 off just 36 balls from Nitish Rana. His explosive innings included 10 fours and 5 sixes, showcasing his aggressive batting style. Despite a valiant effort from CSK’s Ruturaj Gaikwad, who scored 63 runs, the team fell short of the target, finishing at 176 for 6.
MS Dhoni meets Rahul Dravid after a thriller
As the match concluded, the focus shifted from the field to a heartwarming moment off it. MS Dhoni, the CSK veteran, made headlines as he checked on RR coach Rahul Dravid, who was seen entering the field on crutches due to a leg injury sustained prior to the tournament. This touching interaction between two cricketing icons resonated with fans and quickly went viral on social media.
Two Legends In One Frame 🔥
Ms Dhoni Checking On Rahul Dravid #MSDhoni #RahulDravid pic.twitter.com/h90vXYiUhd
— Shivam 🔱 (@SSS_Shiv_007) March 31, 2025
MS Dhoni checking on Rahul Dravid after yesterday's match. ❤️
– True respect between legends! 🏏 #MSDhoni #RahulDravid #CricketSpirit #GOATs pic.twitter.com/LhapG2mT0w
— Akaran.A (@Akaran_1) March 31, 2025
MS Dhoni with Rahul Dravid ❤️
– Two Ultimates of Indian Cricket…!!!!#ThalaDhoni pic.twitter.com/33mUCeD6WI
— Brajesh Patel (@Brajeshpatel09) March 31, 2025
Ms dhoni Rahul Dravid to legends if indian cricket in one frame 💯🔥
— Viraj Rk17 (@VirajRk17) March 30, 2025
Legends supporting legends! The mutual respect is unmatched.
— Shashi kumar K R (@shashikumarkr25) March 30, 2025
Dhoni also encouraged his younger teammates to approach Dravid and show their respect and admiration.
Hope the few fellow RR fans stop the dumb agenda against legend of the game Rahul Dravid. 🤫 pic.twitter.com/srngE7b4Xs
— Praneesh (@praneeshroyce) March 30, 2025
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The match itself was a rollercoaster ride. CSK started their chase with high hopes but struggled against RR’s disciplined bowling attack. Wanindu Hasaranga was instrumental for RR, claiming four wickets for just 35 runs, effectively dismantling CSK’s middle order. His clever variations kept CSK’s batters guessing and ultimately led to their downfall.
As the game neared its climax, CSK needed 20 runs off the final over. Dhoni’s presence at the crease raised hopes among fans; however, he was dismissed by Sandeep Sharma on just his first legal delivery of the over. The final moments were tense as Ravindra Jadeja attempted to lead a late charge but could not secure victory for his team.
