Chennai Super Kings (CSK) finally broke their jinx of chasing down 180-plus targets, overcoming a late scare from Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) batter Urvil to register a vital victory in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. The match, held at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, saw CSK achieve a challenging total with just a few balls to spare, thanks to a composed middle-order performance and some late fireworks.
CSK's Chase Masterclass
Chasing a daunting target of 185 set by LSG, CSK got off to a steady start with openers Ruturaj Gaikwad and Devon Conway adding 52 runs in the powerplay. However, LSG struck back with quick wickets, reducing CSK to 89 for 3 in the 11th over. The required run rate climbed above 10, putting pressure on the hosts. But Shivam Dube and Moeen Ali steadied the ship with a 67-run partnership off 42 balls, bringing CSK back into the game.
Urvil's Late Assault
With 28 runs needed off the last 12 balls, LSG's Urvil produced a stunning bowling spell, picking up two wickets in the 18th over and conceding just 6 runs. The equation came down to 22 off 6 balls. However, MS Dhoni, known for his finishing abilities, smashed a six and a four off the first two balls of the final over, bowled by Mohsin Khan. But Urvil struck again, removing Dhoni for a 10-ball 18. With 10 runs needed off the last 3 balls, Ravindra Jadeja held his nerve, hitting a boundary and a six to seal the win for CSK with a ball to spare.
Breaking the Hoodoo
This victory marked CSK's first successful chase of a 180-plus target in IPL 2026, having lost their previous four such attempts. Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad praised the team's effort, saying, "We have been working on our chasing abilities, and today it all came together. The lower order showed great character." For LSG, Urvil's all-round performance (2 for 28 and a quickfire 34 off 18 balls) went in vain as their bowlers failed to defend the total.
The win moves CSK to third place in the points table, while LSG remains in fifth. Both teams have three matches remaining in the league stage.
