Murali Vijay's contribution to the CSK in the IPL has been significant, especially as an explosive opener providing blistering starts to the team
The Indian Premier League (IPL) has evolved significantly over its 16-year history, witnessing numerous records shattered with each passing tournament. What was once considered extraordinary has become the norm, with teams regularly scoring over 250 runs and successful chases of such mammoth totals becoming increasingly common.
One of the most successful teams in IPL history, Chennai Super Kings (CSK), has had many players produce standout performances. From scintillating centuries to match-winning spells, numerous players have left their mark on the team's legacy. However, as the tournament progresses and new records are set with each passing season, some of these past achievements may fade from immediate memory.
Here are four standout innings by CSK players that may have faded from recent memory but left a lasting impact on the franchise.
Murali Vijay takes charge of the spinners
Murali Vijay's contribution to the CSK in the IPL has been significant, especially as an explosive opener that provided blistering starts for the team. With over 2,600 runs in his IPL career, including 2,205 runs for CSK alone, Vijay stands out as one of the top scorers for the franchise. His tally includes two centuries and ten half-centuries.
Vijay's impact on CSK was highlighted by his highest individual score of 127 runs against the Rajasthan Royals in 2010. This innings played a pivotal role in CSK's successful campaign that year, culminating in their first-ever IPL trophy.
Michael Hussey's impact on the IPL was remarkable, as he showcased consistent and classy performances for both CSK and MI. His memorable 116-run unbeaten innings against Kings XI Punjab in the IPL's inaugural season stands out as a testament to his batting prowess and ability to deliver in crucial moments. He became only the second batsman to score a century in the Indian Premier League, following Brendon McCullum in 2008. Hussey's century came off just 50 balls, making it the fastest hundred in IPL history, surpassing McCullum's record of 53 balls. With 64 appearances and 2213 runs for CSK, Hussey's legacy as a stalwart of the IPL continues to inspire aspiring cricketers and delight fans of the franchise.
Shane Watson's stint with CSK in the IPL was legendary. Despite featuring for various franchises, Watson found a sense of belonging in the CSK camp, where he showcased his batting prowess and enjoyed the freedom to take charge during the powerplay overs. In his 43 appearances for CSK, Watson amassed over 1,200 runs at an impressive average of over 30, including two centuries and seven half-centuries. One of his memorable centuries came in the final of the 2018 edition against the Sunrisers Hyderabad, where he blasted 117 runs, leading CSK to victory single-handedly and etching his name in the franchise's history books with the second-highest score ever recorded.
Ambati Rayudu celebrating his century in 60 balls against Sunrisers Hyderabad.
Ambati Rayudu's move to CSK in 2018 was a game-changer for the team, especially during their victorious campaign that year. Rayudu's stellar performance saw him amass 602 runs in his debut for Chennai, marking his best season in the IPL. Throughout his tenure with the team, Rayudu accumulated 1913 runs in 79 innings at an average of 29.9 and a strike rate of 128.7. In a memorable innings, Chennai chased a target of 180 runs, and Rayudu, opening alongside Shane Watson, played a pivotal role. The duo stitched together a formidable 134-run partnership before Watson's departure. However, Rayudu continued dominating, smashing a brilliant century off just 60 balls, adorned with seven fours and sixes. His outstanding performance showcased his batting prowess and led Chennai to victory.
