IPL 2021, RR vs CSK: Ruturaj Gaikwad's unbeaten 101 helps Dhoni's men post 189

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) opener Ruturaj Gaikwad made his presence felt with a sensational performance in Match 47 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 against Rajasthan Royals (RR). Gaikwad scored his maiden century in the IPL on Saturday, helping the Chennai-based franchise post a total of 189 runs for the loss of four wickets in 20 overs. The opener smashed an unbeaten 101 off 60 deliveries in an innings comprising of nine boundaries and five sixes. Ravindra Jadeja further chipped in with a quick-fire 32 off 15 deliveries down the order. Jadeja’s knock included four fours and a maximum.

Rahul Tewatia was the pick of the bowlers for the Rajasthan-based franchise, accounting for three dismissals. Chetan Sakariya made his presence felt by picking one wicket.

“The wicket was holding up a bit initially, they started off well in the powerplay. My plan was to bat till the 13th or 14th over, so that I could capitalize on it later. I’m just looking to time the ball and maintain my shape. At the end of the day the team score matters. Individual score doesn’t matter, unless and until your team is winning. We were looking for 160, then I thought 170, 180 and finally we got 190. I had timed that ball well and it was the shorter boundary, so I knew it was going to be a six. We need to bowl well and execute our plans,” said Ruturaj as quoted by Cricbuzz.

Sanju Samson wins toss, opts to field

Sanju Samson had earlier won the toss and opted to field. This encounter is a must-win for the Rajasthan-based franchise, who are battling it out for the final two playoff spots with gusto. Their opponents on the other hand have already qualified for the playoffs along with Delhi Capitals (DC). CSK can afford to experiment if they wish, which will certainly be a very comfortable prospect for the MS Dhoni-led franchise. Dhoni has now become the first captain to lead an IPL franchise in 200 matches, which will definitely boost his morale.

The Rajasthan-based franchise has made five changes to the lineup for the encounter, from the one fielded in the previous match. Glenn Phillips, Mayank Markande and Akash Singh are set to make their respective franchise debuts, with David Miller and Shivam Dube handed an opportunity. CSK have made two changes with KM Asif included in place of Deepak Chahar followed by an opportunity for Sam Curran in place of Dwayne Bravo.

“We would have liked to bowl first, because the wicket here will stay the same. We are one team who don’t make many changes. Sam comes in for Bravo and Asif comes in for Deepak. We are playing back-to-back games, so it’s important to keep the players fresh. It’s better to rest them. The weather will keep getting better from now, and it will be the perfect weather during the World Cup,” said Dhoni.

“We would like to field first on this wicket. The past matches and the experience we have, it’s easier to chase. It has always been the same from the past two-three years. You need to show the character, commitment towards the franchise. I would like everyone to put in some great performances. We have made four changes,” stated Samson.