Kamal Ghorui
NEW DELHI: Skipper Shubman Gill added a touch of charm to Gujarat Titans’ emphatic win over Chennai Super Kings with a heartfelt “Nandri Chennai” post, holding a yellow whistle, a playful nod to the home crowd at Chepauk.On the field, though, it was all business. Gujarat Titans delivered a commanding eight-wicket victory, chasing down 159 with 20 balls to spare in a clinical display of top-order batting.Sai Sudharsan once again led the charge with a fluent 87 off 46 balls, continuing his impressive run of form. Gill provided the early momentum with a brisk start, while Jos Buttler played the perfect supporting role to ensure there were no late hiccups.
The chase was defined by composure and control. Gill and Sudharsan made full use of the Powerplay, racing to 55 without loss before the skipper fell to a stumping. Unfazed, Sudharsan took charge, mixing elegant strokeplay with calculated aggression against spin. His clean hitting, particularly in the middle overs, kept the required rate well in check.Earlier, CSK’s innings revolved almost entirely around Ruturaj Gaikwad, who stood tall with an unbeaten 74. However, regular wickets at the other end prevented the hosts from building sustained momentum. Kagiso Rabada was the chief destroyer, striking early blows to leave CSK on the back foot.Despite late cameos pushing CSK to 158/7, the total never looked daunting. Gujarat’s disciplined bowling effort ensured they entered the chase with confidence, and their batters did the rest with precision.The win lifts GT further into contention this season, but it was Gill’s post-match gesture that captured attention — a simple “thank you” that resonated beyond the result.
