Source: Wisden
Leading from the front as captain, Gaikwad showcased his exceptional batting prowess and determination, becoming the first CSK skipper to achieve the feat of scoring a hundred in the IPL
With pride, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are the most successful side in the IPL, mainly due to the legendary guidance of Mahendra Singh Dhoni. In 2010, when Dhoni was briefly sidelined due to injury, Suresh Raina admirably stepped in as captain, showcasing his leadership abilities. In a significant turn of events in IPL 2022, Ravindra Jadeja took over as captain amidst CSK's struggles. However, Dhoni reassumed leadership to revitalise the team's performance. In 2024, Ruturaj Gaikwad was appointed captain, marking a new era for CSK.
Here are some of the top captain's knocks by different CSK captains in the history of IPL.
Dhoni's unforgettable innings in IPL 2019 epitomises his legendary status in cricket, demonstrating his ability to turn the tide of a match single-handedly. With a daunting target and a precarious situation, Dhoni showcased his trademark resilience, leading CSK's remarkable fightback. Partnering with Ambati Rayudu, Dhoni orchestrated a stunning recovery, showcasing his sublime batting prowess with five boundaries and seven towering sixes. His calculated aggression and masterful strokeplay kept Chennai's hopes alive, captivating fans with his brilliance. Despite falling short of victory by one run, Dhoni's heroic innings of 84 runs off just 48 balls left an indelible mark on IPL history.
Suresh Raina's captain's knock against Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) in the IPL 2010 season remains a memorable highlight in CSK's journey. Facing a challenging target of 185 runs, Raina rose to the occasion with a stellar innings, guiding his team to a remarkable victory. Raina showcased his batting prowess and leadership qualities in his authoritative innings, scoring 49 runs off just 34 balls. His innings were characterised by a perfect blend of aggression and finesse, as he struck three boundaries and an equal number of sixes to keep the scoreboard ticking. Raina's crucial contribution proved instrumental in CSK's successful chase, as they ultimately reached the target with ease, scoring 190 runs and securing a convincing victory by five wickets with ample deliveries to spare.
Ravindra Jadeja's captain's knock against Gujarat Titans in the IPL 2022 season showcased his bat prowess and ability to lead from the front under pressure. Batting first, Chennai Super Kings posted a competitive total of 169 runs, with Jadeja playing a pivotal role in bolstering the innings. In his brilliant innings, Jadeja displayed his aggressive batting style, scoring 22 runs off just 12 balls at a blistering strike rate of 183.33. His innings included two mighty sixes, which added crucial runs to CSK's total and injected momentum into their innings. Although Gujarat Titans comfortably chased down the target set by Chennai Super Kings, Jadeja's captain's knock played a significant role in giving his team a fighting chance.
Leading from the front as captain, Gaikwad showcased his exceptional batting prowess and determination, becoming the first CSK skipper to score a hundred in the IPL against Lucknow Super Giants. In just 28 balls, he reached his fifty and then continued to bat smartly, ensuring a steady flow of runs while maintaining the momentum. With a mix of powerful strokes and intelligent running between the wickets, Gaikwad surged towards his century with determination and grit. He reached the landmark in style, remaining unbeaten on 108 off 60 balls, an innings adorned with 11 boundaries and three sixes. Despite Gaikwad's heroics, CSK's total of 210 runs was not enough to secure victory, as LSG chased down the target in a thrilling encounter.
