Chennai Super Kings returned to winning ways on Monday, defeating Lucknow Super Giants by 12 runs.
After losing by five wickets to Gujarat Titans in the season opener of IPL 2023, Chennai Super Kings went back on track with a 12-run victory over Lucknow Super Giants on Monday. MS Dhoni’s team returned to their fortress Chepauk after a four-year absence, with Ruturaj Gaikwad smashing 57 off 31 balls and taking his side to a score of 217/7 in 20 overs. Dhoni’s signature entry was also observed by the crowd, as he smashed back-to-back sixes on the first two balls he encountered. Aside from his quick knock, another thing that wowed the spectators was his sweet gesture after the game.
Following the thrilling victory, Dhoni and the other players were seen embracing and smiling with each other. Dhoni also met and photographed LSG all-rounder Krishnappa Gowtham’s family, which included his wife and a daughter.
The photos quickly goes viral on social media, with fans moved by the simplicity of the CSK captain.
In the match, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Devon Conway, and Moeen Ali shone for Chennai Super Kings in their opening home match of the ongoing IPL in Chennai on Monday, helping the team record a 12-run victory over Lucknow Super Giants at their fortress — the M A Chidambaram stadium.
Gaikwad hit his second consecutive fifty and shared 110 runs for the first wicket with Conway (47 off 29) as CSK recorded a commanding 217 for 7 after being sent in to bat.
Following his 92 in the first game, Gaikwad blasted 57 off 31 with three fours and four sixes. Conway, who made five boundaries and two over-the-fence hits, provided solid support.
Then Moeen Ali came back with 4 for 26 from his overs to help CSK restrict LSG to 205 for seven.
Late hitting by Nicholas Pooran (32 off 18 balls, 2x4s, 3x6s) and a ferocious opening attack by fellow West Indian Kyle Mayers (53 off 22 balls, 8x4s, 2x6s) failed to help LSG.
