KATHMANDU: In a tightly-contested Match 61 of the TATA IPL 2024, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) emerged victorious against Rajasthan Royals (RR) in a crucial encounter at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

A brilliant spell of 3/26 from the spirited Simarjeet Singh, combined with disciplined bowling efforts from CSK’s bowlers, restricted RR to 141/5 despite a few sparks of resistance from their batsmen.

Singh’s energetic and aggressive bowling saw him dismiss the set openers, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Jos Buttler, before claiming the crucial wicket of captain Sanju Samson.

Chasing 142 for victory, CSK got off to a brisk start with Rachin Ravindra providing impetus with a quickfire 27.

However, it was captain Ruturaj Gaikwad’s composed innings of 42*(41) and a brisk cameo from Shivam Dube (18 off 11) that ensured CSK’s victory with five wickets in hand.

Despite some early setbacks, CSK maintained their composure, with Gaikwad anchoring the innings and steering his team towards the target.

A crucial partnership between Gaikwad and Sameer Rizvi (15* off 11) saw CSK cross the finish line with 10 balls to spare.

Earlier, RR, opting to bat first after winning the toss, struggled to build momentum against CSK’s disciplined bowling attack.

Despite a few cameos from their batsmen, including Riyan Parag’s unbeaten 47*(35), RR managed only 141/5 in their allotted 20 overs.

CSK’s victory in this tightly-contested encounter has boosted their chances in the ongoing IPL 2024 tournament, while RR will be looking to bounce back in their upcoming matches.