Chennai Super Kings (CSK) made a winning comeback to the Indian Premier League on Saturday as they defeated the defending champions Mumbai Indians by 1 wicket in the opening match of IPL 2018 edition at the Wankhede stadium here.
Needing just 7 off the last over, an injured Kedar Jadhav unable to run due to hamstring problem played three dot balls before playing lap shot over fine leg off Mustafizur Rahaman followed by a cover drive to end the match on a winning note.
CSK who chose to ball after winning the toss was to chase a tricky target of 166. Dwayne Bravo's incredible 68 off 30 balls with seven sixes turned it in favour of the CSK.
The 18th and 19th over bowled by Mitchell McClenaghan and Jasprit Bumrah respectively were taken for 20 each including five sixes.
Hardik Pandya grabbed three wickets for 24 runs while rookie leg-spinner Mayank Markande (3/23) was brilliant on his debut but it was Bravo who changed it all.
Among the batters, Suresh Raina was bowled out by Krunal Pandya for just 4 runs. Further leg-spinner Markande removed Ambati Rayudu (22) with a googly as the latter attempted a slog sweep.
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Then came the prized wicket of MS Dhoni as he as the skipper failed to read the rookie leg-break bowler's wrong 'un and tried to defend off the back-foot. The result was a plumb leg-before decision leaving CSK reeling at 51 for 4.
Surya and Kishan then steered the team out of trouble and then Bravo ensured that the team remained out of the woods.