CSK defeat KXIP by 22 runs: Detailed match report
What's the story
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) outsmarted Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) by 22 runs in the 18th match of the IPL 2019 in Chennai on Saturday.
Winning the toss, CSK skipper MS Dhoni decided to bat as he moved in with a bowling dominated side.
While CSK put up an average total of 160 runs, KXIP succumbed to pressure, thereby losing the game at the death.
Innings detail
KXIP fail to capitalize despite strong start
Batting first, CSK were off to a flier, scoring 54 runs in the power-play.
However, good bowling by Punjab saw them post only 160/3.
During the chase, KXIP lost two wickets quickly but Sarfaraz Khan and KL Rahul built the innings, as they stitched a 110 run partnership.
CSK spinners came back strong as they choked the run scoring and KXIP succumbed to pressure.
Top Performers
Faf du Plessis and Harbhajan Singh do it for CSK
Faf du Plessis was the top scorer for CSK (54).
Ravichandran Ashwin was the pick among KXIP bowlers, claiming 3/23 at an economy of 5.75.
In reply, Sarfaraz Khan played a knock of 67, along with KL Rahul's 55, while Harbhajan Singh was the top wicket-taker for CSK, claiming 2/17 at an economy of 4.25.
In the end, Dhoni's captaincy outsmarted Punjab's batsmen.
What's next?
CSK host KKR, KXIP entertain SRH
Notably, CSK will next be seen in action against KKR on April 9, whereas, KXIP will lock horns with SRH on April 8.
Post this victory, CSK now enjoy a 13-8 advantage in their head-to-head matches against KXIP.
Meanwhile, CSK go atop the league table with eight points from five matches, while KXIP drop to the fourth spot.