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The IPL 2024 league stage enters its final week with three teams already securing their playoff berths. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Rajasthan Royals (RR), and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) have locked their spots in the playoffs. Meanwhile, Mumbai Indians, Punjab Kings, and Gujarat Titans have been eliminated. Delhi Capitals and Lucknow Super Giants also face an uphill battle to qualify, which looks far-fetched, leaving the final playoff spot wide open.
The fight for this coveted position rests on the shoulders of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK). These two teams are set to clash at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday, May 18 in a do-or-die encounter.
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What happened when Jadeja led the side…: Irfa Pathan
Adding fuel to the fire, former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan analyzed Chennai Super Kings' inconsistent performance in IPL 2024. He issued a stern warning to young opener Ruturaj Gaikwad, suggesting the franchise might explore alternatives next season if they fail to qualify for the playoffs. Speaking on Star Sports, Pathan drew parallels with the Ravindra Jadeja situation in 2022. Back then, Jadeja was replaced as captain after a disappointing start to the season under his leadership. Can CSK defy the odds and secure their playoff spot, or will Gaikwad face the consequences of a potential exit? Saturday's match against RCB promises to be a high-pressure affair.
“CSK bring in the pedigree of being the team who knows how to win crucial moments. But they have lots of issues at the moment. Injury issues, new captain, Mahendra Singh Dhoni is no longer leading them. You might have seen him occasionally setting the field, but he is not the captain. You might have remembered what happened when [Ravindra] Jadeja led the side and it didn't end well, the same can happen again. CSK fans will hope that they march ahead of these issues and win the crucial two points,” he said.
Beyond the crucial playoff implications, the match carries another significant aspect, i.e the potential curtain call for MS Dhoni's illustrious career with CSK.
“It could be the last game for Mahendra Singh Dhoni, or it may not,” said Pathan.
Former World Cup winner Irfan Pathan believes Royal Challengers Bangalore have the upper hand in this crucial clash. Their impressive winning streak in the latter half of the season has instilled confidence and momentum within the team. Should RCB defeat CSK and qualify for the playoffs, Pathan suggests they could be a serious threat for the IPL title.
“Nothing is easy. It's not going to be easy for both teams. RCB has the momentum, a solid momentum. And if they win as there is no more dangerous side than the one in strong momentum,” he added.
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