In a gripping last-ball showdown, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) matched the Mumbai Indians’ (MI) record of five Indian Premier League (IPL) titles as they emerged victorious against the defending champions, the Gujarat Titans (GT), by five wickets in a rain-interrupted final at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium.
Originally scheduled for Sunday, the summit clash had to be rescheduled to the Reserved Day due to heavy rain that disrupted play on the initial date. The much-anticipated encounter finally took place on Monday at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, where it was filled with thrilling moments.
After the Gujarat Titans set a daunting target of 214 for 4 in 20 overs, courtesy of Sai Sudharshan’s remarkable 96 off just 47 deliveries, the CSK openers took the field to begin the chase. However, rain made an unwelcome return, causing a brief interruption. Although the showers were short-lived, they had an impact on the practice pitches adjacent to the main wicket.
Eventually, the match resumed at 12:10 am after a significant delay caused by a wet outfield. With a revised target of 171 runs to chase in 15 overs, CSK took on the challenge. In a thrilling climax, they managed to achieve the target on the final ball of the match, sparking celebrations among the packed crowd at the Narendra Modi Stadium. This victory could potentially mark the final appearance in the T20 league for CSK’s veteran batter, Ambati Rayudu.
The IPL 2023 season witnessed some enthralling matches played across various grounds, but when it comes to the best pitch and ground, two venues stood out from the rest: Wankhede Stadium and Eden Gardens. Both these iconic stadiums not only provided a fantastic playing surface but also created an electrifying atmosphere for the players and spectators alike.
Wankhede Stadium, located in Mumbai, showcased its prowess as a cricketing haven throughout the tournament. The pitch at Wankhede offered a perfect balance between bat and ball, allowing for exciting contests between the teams. Batsmen relished the true bounce and consistent pace, enabling them to play their shots with confidence. The outfield was lightning-fast, rewarding well-timed strokes with boundaries. Bowlers, on the other hand, found support in the pitch, with ample assistance for both pacers and spinners. The stadium’s vibrant atmosphere and enthusiastic crowd added to the overall spectacle, making it a favorite among players and fans alike.
Eden Gardens in Kolkata, known for its rich cricketing history, also left a lasting impression on the IPL 2023 season. The ground’s vast expanse and iconic architecture provided a majestic backdrop for thrilling encounters. The pitch at Eden Gardens offered a unique challenge to the players, with spinners finding significant turn and bounce, while pacers enjoyed the swing and seam movement. Batsmen had to apply themselves to negotiate the challenging conditions, making for gripping battles between bat and ball. The noise and passion of the crowd at Eden Gardens further enhanced the experience, creating an intimidating atmosphere for visiting teams.
In recognition of their outstanding facilities and contribution to the tournament, both Wankhede Stadium and Eden Gardens were awarded a cash prize of Rs 50 lakh.