3 things CSK need to do right to defeat GT in IPL 2023 Qualifier 1

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) made it to the playoffs for the record 12th time after finishing the league stage with 17 points to their name. Their record ensured them a top-two place in the points table, sealing them a spot in Qualifer 1 of the playoffs against defending champions and table toppers Gujarat Titans (GT).

CSK could potentially seal a place in the final should they defeat the Hardik Pandya-led side. The four-time winners head into the contest on the back of some good form, winning three of their last four matches.

The Yellow Army also had the luxury of finding their best possible combination relatively early into the tournament as well. Right from the playing XI to the impact sub, CSK have been straightforward and logical about their approach as always.

The batting and bowling units have played their parts to perfection as well and the return of Deepak Chahar from injury has been a huge boost as well. Barring Ben Stokes, the rest of the CSK outfit are eligible for selection as they aim to record their first win over GT in the IPL.

On that note, here are three things CSK need to do right to defeat GT in IPL 2023 Qualifier 1.

#1 Dismiss Shubman Gill early

Shubman Gill is in red-hot form and is the backbone of the GT batting unit. The opening batter is on the back of consecutive hundreds and things could quickly slip away from CSK's grasp if he gets going.

As a result, it is crucial that the bowlers come up with a plan to negate the threat posed by Gill. Deepak Chahar, who has found his rhythm back, is arguably the best option to either subdue the batter or even claim the wicket. The in-form Tushar Deshpande is also another option to dismiss Gill inside the powerplay itself.

Gill scored a match winning innings during the last encounter between these two sides, but looking at the big picture, he does not have a formidable record against the four-time winners or at the M Chidambaram Stadium.

#2 Negotiate the GT spinners

The Chepauk wicket has been tricky to say the least over the course of the season, but has played relatively well and produced some solid matches. While it did not aid the spinners much in CSK's last home of the season, particularly in the second innings.

Apart from their formidable pace bowling unit, GT have a bankable spin bowling set up led by their overseas stars. Rashid Khan and Noor Ahmed have struck up quite a partnership in their short time so far and their eight overs on the Chepauk wicket will be crucial.

Shivam Dube, in particular, has been a handful for the spinners in IPL 2023, but he will have his task cut out against the wrist spinner duo.

#3 Make the most of the familiar conditions

CSK have had a relatively good season at home, winning four and losing three, with two of losses being extremely close contests. Whether it be batting first and defending totals or chasing down scores, CSK have devised a blue print over how to thrive in Chepauk.

A huge responsibility falls down on the opening batters to assess the par score on the wicket and then build the innings respectively. As far as the bowling is concerned, it is highly essential to weather the initial storm and then try to bring back control with the help of the spinners in the middle overs.

Very few teams avail the opportunity of playing Qualifier 1 at their home venue and it is upto MS Dhoni and Co. to make the most of it and avoid a potential elimination or taking the longer route into the finals.

Who will win between the two heavyweights in IPL 2023 Qualifier 1? Let us know what you think.