NEW DELHI: The highly anticipated IPL final between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Gujarat Titans took an unexpected turn as rain interrupted the match, leading to a revised target for CSK in their chase. After a lengthy delay, CSK were set a revised target of 171 runs to win the match in 15 overs against the defending champions, Gujarat Titans.
The rain arrived in Ahmedabad when Chennai had just begun their chase, with the team's score at four runs without any loss after three balls. The match had already been rescheduled to a reserve day after being washed out on Sunday.
The downpour lasted approximately 15 minutes, and although the covers were removed from one of the pitches, the ground staff had to put in more than two hours of hard work to prepare the field for resumption of play.
This IPL final is speculated to be a significant milestone for Chennai's captain, MS Dhoni, as it is believed to be his last match. Thousands of fans wearing the yellow jersey, synonymous with Dhoni's stardom, have filled the world's largest cricket stadium to witness the momentous occasion.
Earlier in the match, Gujarat Titans' batsman Sai Sudharsan played a scintillating innings, smashing 96 runs and propelling his team to a mammoth total of 214 for the loss of four wickets. This score sets a new record for the highest total in an IPL final, showcasing the firepower of the Gujarat Titans' batting lineup.
As the match resumes with a revised target, the stage is set for an exhilarating chase as CSK strives to overcome the challenge posed by Gujarat Titans and emerge as champions of the IPL 2023 season.
(With inputs from AFP)
