NEW DELHI: Mumbai Indians faced a heartbreak at the iconic Wankhede Stadium on Sunday night as Rohit Sharma's spectacular century failed to secure victory against Chennai Super Kings in the IPL 2024 clash.
Despite Rohit's unbeaten 105 off 63 balls, his second IPL ton, Mumbai Indians couldn't chase down Chennai's total, resulting in a 20-run defeat and marking a rare instance where Rohit remained unbeaten in a chase but couldn't lead his team to victory.
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After the thrilling encounter, a heartwarming moment ensued as MS Dhoni, known for his sportsmanship, consoled Rohit Sharma with a warm embrace and a reassuring pat on the back, showcasing the camaraderie and mutual respect between players across rival teams.
Rohit, the former captain of Mumbai Indians, displayed remarkable resilience against Chennai's disciplined bowling attack. However, the lack of support from the middle order proved detrimental to Mumbai's fortunes.
Reflecting on the match, MI captain Hardik Pandya acknowledged that the target of 207 was attainable, particularly considering the conducive batting conditions at Wankhede Stadium where dew aids batting in the second innings. Despite a promising start and Rohit's valiant efforts, Mumbai Indians faltered in their pursuit of victory.
Matheesha Pathirana emerged as the game-changer for Chennai Super Kings, claiming four crucial wickets for a mere 28 runs in his quota of four overs. His exceptional bowling performance, complemented by Chennai's strategic approach proved decisive in securing victory for the visitors.
As Mumbai Indians come to terms with their fourth loss in IPL 2024, Rohit Sharma's stellar innings and Dhoni's gesture serve as poignant reminders of the unpredictable and captivating nature of cricket.
1/10:CSK beat MI despite Rohit Sharma's ton
AP
2/10:CSK beat MI
<p>Rohit Sharma hit an unbeaten 105 but his Mumbai Indians fell 20 runs short as they tried to chase down a big target set by holders Chennai Super Kings on Sunday. </p>AFP
3/10:Rohit Sharma
<p>Set 207 for victory, five-time winners Mumbai finished on 186/6 even though Rohit raised his ton in 61 balls at his home ground in Wankhede Stadium. </p>IANS
4/10:CSK
<p>Skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad and the in-form Shivam Dube powered Chennai, who won their fifth title last year, to 206/4. </p>AFP
5/10:MS Dhoni
<p>Gaikwad hit 69 and Dube smashed an unbeaten 66 before warhorse MS Dhoni smashed three successive sixes in the 20th over to take Chennai past 200. </p>AP
6/10:Vintage Dhoni
<p>Dhoni came in to bat with four balls left and scored 20 smashing Mumbai skipper Hardik Pandya for three sixes and finished with a two to end a 26-run over. </p>AFP
7/10:Matheesha Pathirana
<p>Sri Lanka quick Matheesha Pathirana then took four wickets to push Mumbai to their fourth loss of the season. </p>PTI
8/10:CSK end on a high
<p>Gaikwad put on 90 runs with Dube before falling to Pandya, but Dube and then Dhoni's cameo ensured Chennai finished strongly. </p>AP
9/10:MI openers
<p>Mumbai started well with Rohit and Ishan Kishan putting on 70 runs for the first wicket before Pathirana hit back. </p>AFP
