After a three-day’s of delay, the IPL final delivered an exhilarating spectacle that surpassed all expectations. Despite a rain-soaked evening and subsequent delays, the ultimate showdown took place on May 30th, resulting in the Chennai Super Kings claiming a historic fifth IPL title by defeating the Gujarat Titans with five wickets to spare under the DLS method.
This triumph also solidified MS Dhoni’s status as one of the most successful captains in IPL history, alongside Rohit Sharma. In a nerve-wracking and captivating contest that swung back and forth until the very end, Chennai successfully chased down a revised target of 171 runs in 15 overs, culminating in a thrilling last-ball victory.
Amidst the tension, it was the composed presence of Ravindra Jadeja that guided Chennai across the finish line. With 10 runs needed off the final two balls against the formidable and in-form bowler Mohit Sharma, Jadeja unleashed a six and a four, crushing the hopes of the Gujarat Titans and Hardik Pandya in a frenzied climax at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium.
On the night when everything was on the line for him, Ravindra Jadeja proved that actions speak louder than words. Despite being more vocal on social media than showcasing his skills on the field, Jadeja chose the perfect occasion to redeem himself.
In the previous season, he had taken on the responsibility of leading the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) but faced a series of setbacks with five consecutive losses. As a result, he was replaced as captain, and the reins were handed back to MS Dhoni. This decision seemed to sour Jadeja’s relationship with CSK, leading to speculation about a rift between the team and their star all-rounder.
The following months weren’t any easier for Jadeja as he suffered a knee injury, which kept him sidelined for nearly six months. Despite the rumors surrounding his alleged disputes and setbacks, Jadeja emerged triumphant in this year’s IPL. It was a crucial moment for him, and he rose to the occasion, silencing his critics with an outstanding performance.
Facing a daunting challenge with 13 runs required off the last over against the formidable bowler Mohit Sharma, who had recently dismissed Ambati Rayudu and MS Dhoni in consecutive deliveries, Ravindra Jadeja and Shivam Dube found themselves in a make-or-break situation.
Dube had displayed some power-hitting by hitting back-to-back sixes off Rashid Khan but was still not in his fluent form. On the other hand, Jadeja had only faced three deliveries, accumulating four runs, before Mohit took charge of the final over.
Mohit, known for his experienced approach, gave it his all, commencing with a dot ball and allowing just three singles off the next three deliveries, creating an excellent start to the over. With the equation now reduced to 10 runs needed off the final two balls, Jadeja understood that the moment called for a decisive action. And without hesitation, he unleashed a powerful stroke, launching the ball over the bowler’s head for a magnificent six.
Following a lengthy discussion with Hardik Pandya, Mohit Sharma prepared to deliver the final ball of the IPL 2023. Unexpectedly, the delivery turned out to be a low full toss, angling towards the batsman’s pads. Jadeja made a slight adjustment, moving towards the left, and managed to flick it past the fielder stationed at short fine leg, resulting in a crucial boundary.
As soon as the ball crossed the boundary line, Jadeja and his Chennai Super Kings teammates erupted with joy and celebration. This victory marked the moment when CSK were officially crowned as IPL champions.
The greatest ever finish to an IPL – Ravindra Jadeja the hero. pic.twitter.com/CSdxr37yxQ
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) May 29, 2023
