MS Dhoni's departure on the second ball of the final over dashed Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) hopes of reaching the IPL 2024 playoffs on May 18 as defending champions suffered an agonizing defeat against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). This crucial wicket, after a bold decision by RCB captain Faf du Plessis to entrust the young pacer Yash Dayal with the final over, secured a dramatic 27-run victory for RCB. Dayal rose to the occasion, dismissing one of cricket's most renowned finishers in a moment of critical need for CSK. This victory not only propelled RCB into the playoffs, but also showcased Dayal's talent and ability to perform in high-stakes situations, especially after last year's five-sixes blemish.
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Dhoni left frustrated after his dismissal
When CSK were MS Dhoni ignited a flicker of hope for CSK by launching a massive six off the first ball of the final over bowled by Yash Dayal. This audacious stroke momentarily gave the impression that CSK might snatch victory when the chips were down. However, the tide turned dramatically on the very next delivery. Dayal displayed exceptional composure and deceived Dhoni with a change of pace. The attempted big shot resulted in a mistimed shot, skying the ball towards deep backward square leg. Swapnil Singh, positioned there, completed a comfortable catch, extinguishing CSK's hopes. With Dhoni's dismissal, the immense pressure shifted to Shardul Thakur and Ravindra Jadeja. Needing 10 runs off the remaining two balls, they were unable to rise to the challenge. Dayal maintained his nerves throughout the remaining four balls, ensuring RCB's victory.
Dhoni was left distraught after his dismissal and was seen smashing his bat in anger as he walked off the field with a long face.
Faf Du Plessis' captain's knock in RCB's win
Earlier, RCB's dominant batting display, spearheaded by Faf du Plessis (54 off 39) and Virat Kohli (47 off 29), laid the foundation for a formidable total of 218/5. CSK's chase began in shaky fashion with their openers departing cheaply. However, a glimmer of hope emerged with a crucial partnership between the young Rachin Ravindra (61 off 37) and the experienced Ajinkya Rahane (33). They steadied the ship and threatened to chase down the target, but Rahane's dismissal proved a turning point. A flurry of wickets followed, with Faf du Plessis making a spectacular diving catch to dismiss Mitchell Santner in a contender for the "catch of the tournament. By the 15th over, CSK found themselves in a precarious position at 129/6. Despite this, the seasoned duo of Ravindra Jadeja (42 iff 22) and MS Dhoni (25 off 13) refused to give up. Their defiant 61-run stand briefly reignited CSK's hopes, but it ultimately wasn't enough to get CSK past victory line.
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