RR vs CSK: Rajasthan Royals edge out Chennai Super Kings in nail-biter despite Dhoni-Jadeja’s late fightback

RR vs CSK: MS Dhoni was dismissed for 16 off 11 balls (BCCI Photo)

RR vs CSK: In a high-octane clash at Guwahati, Rajasthan Royals (RR) edged out Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by 6 runs, defending 182 in a thriller that went down to the wire. Despite Dhoni and Jadeja’s late fireworks, RR’s spinners and death bowlers held their nerve in a thrilling finish. CSK have now lost back to back games while RR have just opened their account in IPL 2025 after 3 games each.

Rana’s Powerplay Onslaught

Nitish Rana smashed 36-ball 81 (BCCI Photo)

Rajasthan Royals made a blazing start against Chennai Super Kings, courtesy of Nitish Rana’s explosive knock. Sent in at No. 3, Rana tore into the CSK attack, smashing 58 off 22 balls, including a flurry of boundaries in the powerplay. His onslaught propelled RR to 87/1 after six overs, putting them firmly in control.

CSK’s Spin Recovery

After the powerplay carnage, CSK’s spinners gradually pulled things back. Ravindra Jadeja and Noor Ahmad bowled with discipline, applying the brakes in the middle overs. Noor struck twice, dismissing Sanju Samson and Dhruv Jurel, while Jadeja kept the scoring rate in check.

Pathirana’s Late Impact

In the death overs, Matheesha Pathirana starred with a brilliant spell, removing Riyan Parag with a pinpoint yorker and dismissing Shimron Hetmyer. CSK conceded just 37 runs in the final six overs, restricting RR to 182/7 — a competitive total on a spin-friendly pitch.

Early Wobble and Gaikwad’s Steadying Hand

CSK’s chase began on a shaky note as Jofra Archer dismissed Rachin Ravindra for a duck in the opening over. Skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad anchored the innings with a composed fifty, but lacked consistent support. Despite some big hits from Shivam Dube, CSK struggled against RR’s spinners.

Hasaranga Spins a Web

Wanindu Hasaranga was the standout bowler for RR, claiming 4/35. His googlies kept CSK in check, dismissing key batters at crucial junctures. The sluggish track made his variations even more effective. And a brilliant catch from Riyan Parag to dismiss Dube became one of the most important moments of the match.

Dhoni-Jadeja’s Late Heroics in Vain

Needing 45 off the final three overs, MS Dhoni and Ravindra Jadeja gave CSK hope with a few lusty blows. However, they failed to capitalise in Theekshana’s 18th over, which yielded just six runs. With 20 required off the final over, Sandeep Sharma held his nerve once again, replicating his 2023 Chepauk heroics to bowl RR to a thrilling 6-run win.