Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have played 12 matches in the IPL so far, winning 12 points. They have a net run rate (NRR) of 0.491, which is a measure of how well they’ve performed compared to their opponents in terms of runs scored and conceded. With two matches remaining against Rajasthan Royals (at home) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (away), they have a chance to secure a spot in the top four and qualify for the playoffs.
However, their recent form has been concerning, as they’ve lost four out of their last six matches. This puts them in a precarious position, needing to win both remaining matches to ensure their qualification. Despite suffering a 35-run loss to Gujarat Titans in their last outing, their NRR remains healthy, giving them an advantage over other teams vying for a playoff spot, particularly Delhi Capitals.
CSK will play against Rajasthan Royals next
The upcoming match against Rajasthan Royals holds significant importance for CSK. A loss in this fixture could potentially knock them out of contention, as other teams like Rajasthan Royals, Kolkata Knight Riders, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and either Delhi Capitals or Lucknow Super Giants could also finish with 16 points or more.
Should CSK finish with 14 points, their fate will depend on the results of other matches. They would need teams like Sunrisers Hyderabad and Delhi Capitals to lose their respective matches, while Lucknow Super Giants would need to lose to Mumbai Indians.
In such a scenario, CSK’s superior NRR would give them the edge over these teams and secure them a third-place finish. In their recent encounter against Gujarat Titans, despite notable performances from players like Daryl Mitchell and Moeen Ali, CSK succumbed to a 35-run defeat.
Gujarat Titans, buoyed by strong displays from Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan, managed to post a formidable total of 231/3. Despite the loss, MS Dhoni provided a moment of excitement for fans when he smacked a one-handed six. However, the team will need to regroup quickly as they prepare for their upcoming match against Rajasthan Royals, which has now become a do-or-die situation for them in their quest for a playoff berth.
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