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IPL Recap: Chennai Super Kings' Best Batting and Bowling Masterstrokes

The stage was set for an explosive innings as Murali Vijay, in sublime form, led the charge from the front in 2010

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and their longtime rivals, Mumbai Indians (MI), both hold the distinction of being the most successful teams in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Led by MS Dhoni, CSK has lifted the IPL trophy five times, showcasing their dominance in the league. Over 14 seasons, CSK has made it to the playoffs an impressive 12 times, highlighting their consistency. Additionally, they have reached the IPL Final on ten occasions, further solidifying their reputation as a formidable team.

Throughout their journey to IPL glory, Chennai Super Kings have witnessed unforgettable batting performances and remarkable bowling displays. Let's explore the pinnacle batting displays and best bowling figures in CSK's IPL campaign history.

Murali Vijay celebrated him by raising his bat high in the air.

Murali Vijay's 127, 2010

In a league match against Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium, CSK displayed their batting prowess by setting their highest total of 246 runs. Murali Vijay led the charge in sublime form with a sensational knock of 127 runs off just 56 balls. His innings included eight boundaries and 11 towering sixes, boasting a strike rate of 226.78. CSK's disciplined bowling unit defended the substantial total, ensuring the Royals fell short by 23 runs.

CSK team celebrating their third IPL trophy

Shane Watson's 117* vs. SRH, 2018

Shane Watson's debut for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in 2018 was legendary. His exceptional batting led CSK to their third IPL title. Watson scored 555 runs in 15 matches with a strike rate of 154.59, placing him among the top run-scorers. In the final at Wankhede Stadium, Watson's unbeaten 117 off 57 balls, including 11 boundaries and eight sixes, orchestrated a stunning chase, leading CSK to victory in 18.3 overs and securing the IPL trophy again.

Micheal Hussey's 116 vs. PBKS, 2008

In a memorable debut encounter against Punjab Kings in 2008 at the PCA Stadium, Michael Hussey's elegant batting led CSK to a resounding 33-run victory. His unbeaten 116-run innings from 54 balls included eight boundaries and nine towering sixes, with a striking 214.81. His masterclass dismantled the opposition's bowling attack, propelling CSK to a formidable total of 240 runs. 

Ravindra Jadeja's 5/16 vs. Deccan Chargers, 2012

Jaddu's brilliance was evident in a 2012 clash against the Deccan Chargers. He scored a fiery 48 off 29 balls, setting up CSK's total of 193 runs. But his bowling stole the show, claiming a five-wicket haul while conceding just 16 runs in four overs at an impressive economy rate of 4.00. His victims included notable names like Parthiv Patel, Bharat Chipli, Manpreet Gony, Dwaraka Ravi Teja, and Dale Steyn. Jadeja's incisive bowling was crucial to CSK's resounding 74-run victory.

Lakshmipathy Balaji's 5/24 vs. Kings XI Punjab, 2008

In the inaugural IPL season, Lakshmipathy Balaji claimed the tournament's first hat-trick against Punjab while defending 181 runs for CSK. His exceptional bowling, including the IPL's first five-wicket haul, led to a crucial 18-run victory. Notable dismissals included Shaun Marsh and Ramnaresh Sarwan, but the highlight was his hat-trick, removing Irfan Pathan, Piyush Chawla, and Vikram Singh in consecutive deliveries. Balaji's performance was pivotal in CSK's early IPL success.

Ashish Nehra achieved a career-best 4 for 10, celebrating the crucial wicket of Virat Kohli

Ashish Nehra's 4/10 vs. RCB, 2015

Ashish Nehra's stellar performance with the ball propelled Chennai Super Kings to a 27-run victory against Royal Challengers Bangalore in an IPL match. CSK posted a total of 181 runs, and while defending, Nehra dismantled RCB's top order by dismissing Manvinder Bisla, Rilee Rossouw, Virat Kohli, and Harshal Patel. His exceptional bowling yielded career-best figures of 4/10, conceding only ten runs in four overs with an impressive economy rate of 2.50.