The highly anticipated IPL 2023 Finals resumed at 12:10 am with a revised target of 171 runs in 15 overs, and it was Chennai Super Kings (CSK) who got off to a fantastic start in their chase against Gujarat Titans (GT). In the first three overs, CSK managed to score 35 runs without losing any wickets, setting a solid foundation for their pursuit of the revised target.
It was Devon Conway who kickstarted CSK’s innings with a brilliant shot off Hardik Pandya’s bowling. With a seam-up full delivery on the stumps, Conway elegantly danced down the wicket and lofted the ball over extra cover for a massive six. The shot showcased Conway’s exquisite timing and power, sending a message to the opposition that he meant business.
In the following over, Conway continued to dominate the GT bowlers. Shami came round the wicket and bowled a delivery outside off, allowing Conway to showcase his wristy flick. With precision and placement, Conway sliced the ball off the inside half of the bat and beat the fielder at deep square leg to earn a boundary.
Not willing to stop there, Conway repeated his magic in the same over. Shami again went round the wicket, but this time he erred in line and length. Conway seized the opportunity and effortlessly pulled the ball over mid-wicket, finding the gap perfectly and registering another boundary. His aggressive stroke play put GT on the backfoot early on and gave CSK the upper hand in the chase.
Meanwhile, Ruturaj Gaikwad, the other opener for CSK, wasted no time in making his presence felt as well. In the first over bowled by Shami, Gaikwad showcased his skills and attacked the GT bowlers, scoring 10 runs and setting the tone for CSK’s chase.
At the end of three overs, CSK had reached an impressive score of 35 without losing any wickets. Conway was leading the charge with 22 runs off just nine deliveries, displaying his ability to find the boundaries with ease. Gaikwad, too, contributed with 12 runs off nine balls, showcasing his intent and determination.