Chennai Super Kings crowned as DLF IPL-3 Champions

Chennai Super Kings( CSK) have been crowned as DLF IPL-3 Champions after they defeated Mumbai Indians by 22 runs. Mahender Singh Dhoni, the Captain of CSK won the toss and decided to bat first. His decision proved fruitful and Mumbai Indians were not able to chase the target of 169 runs. In reply to CSK’s 168 runs, Sachin’s men were able to make only 148 runs at the loss of 7 wickets in 20 overs. Sachin’s innings of 48 off 45 balls also went in vain.

Matthew Hayden and Murali Vijay scored 44runs for the opening partnership for CSK. Murali Vijay made 26 runs in 19 balls, hit two huge sixes and a four before being sent to the pavilion by Fernando in the eighth over. After Vijay got out, Pollard dismissed Hayden in the ninth over. The Australian made only 17 runs out of 31 balls. Fernando got rid of S Badrinath in the 12th over putting Chennai in trouble. At the end of 12 overs Chennai were 68 for 3. However, Raina and the Captain Dhoni came for the rescue of team by scoring 72 runs off 35 balls for the fourth wicket. Raina who scored 57 runs in 35 balls made the fastest fifty of IPL. His innings included three fours and three huge sixes. Raina who was dropped two times capitalized the situation to ensure his team’s victory and remained not out. Raina hd a powerful strike rate of 200.Only Mumbai bowler who kept Chennai in restrain was Sri Lankan Dilhara Fernando. Fernando took two wickets at the cost 23 runs.

Mumbai Indians also had a poor start when they lost their opener Shikhar Dhawan for duck. CSK’s smart spin bowling and great fielding put pressure on Tendulkar’s batsmen. However, Mumbai’s worry grew when they lost Sachin Tendulkar and Saurabh Tiwari in quick succession. Sachin’s brilliant innings ended when he was caught by the Murali Vijay at the long off at the bowl of Shadab Jakati. Jakati also got he prized wicket of Saurabh Tiwari when Raina took a sensational catch pulling a blinder running through the midwicket. Jakati was the best bowler for Super Kings and gave only 27 runs.

However, Pollard tried to keep Mumbai in the match by scoring fast paced 22 runs in the 18th over which was bowled by Bollinger. Albie Morkel bowled a tight 19 th over and took the catch of Pollard shattering dreams of millions of Mumbai Indians fans who wanted their team to be the champion and giving Sachin, a precious birthday gift.

This score of 168 runs was the highest in the all the three IPL finals.