In the highly anticipated IPL 2023 Finals, the game resumed at 12:10 am with a revised target of 171 runs in 15 overs. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) seized the opportunity and got off to a sensational start in their chase against Gujarat Titans (GT). With the power-play reduced to four overs due to the revised rules, CSK openers showed their intent right from the beginning.
Devon Conway and Ruturaj Gaikwad were on fire as they took on the GT bowlers and showcased their aggressive batting skills. In the first four overs of CSK’s innings, they smashed a remarkable 52 runs, setting the stage for a thrilling chase.
Gaikwad continued his impressive form from the earlier overs and added more boundaries to his name. In the fourth over bowled by Rashid Khan, Gaikwad unleashed his attacking prowess. A well-flighted delivery just outside off, which was actually a googly, didn’t deter Rutu. He gave himself a bit of room and elegantly lifted the ball inside-out over mid-off for a massive six. The shot demonstrated Conway’s timing and flair, leaving the fielding side in awe.
Not satisfied with just a six, Ruturaj followed it up with a boundary in the same over. Rashid Khan erred in length and bowled a short delivery. Gaikwad was quick to capitalize on the opportunity and slapped the ball off the back foot, beating the diving effort of the fielder at backward point. With that shot, CSK crossed the 50-run mark and continued to dominate the GT bowlers.
At the end of the power-play, CSK had a formidable total of 52 runs on the board, without losing any wickets. Both Conway and Gaikwad displayed their aggressive intent and showcased their ability to find the boundaries with ease. Conway, in particular, stood out with his exquisite stroke play, while Gaikwad complemented him well with his solid batting.