INDIA: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will feel the pressure as they face the Delhi Capitals (DC) in their final group game of the Indian Premier League.
After a disappointing six-wicket defeat against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in their last home match, CSK finds themselves in a precarious position, needing a win against DC to secure a spot in the playoffs.
CSK had a chance to secure their playoff berth in their previous match but faltered, leaving their fate hanging in the balance.
The good news for CSK is that their destiny is still in their hands; a victory against DC will ensure their qualification for the playoffs.
However, even with a win, CSK cannot guarantee a top-two finish since Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) could also reach the same number of points.
With the recent elimination of the Punjab Kings (PBKS) by the Rajasthan Royals (RR), the race for the remaining three playoff spots is heating up.
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), LSG, RR, CSK, KKR, and Mumbai Indians (MI) are all in contention, but RR and KKR have little chance of qualifying as they can only reach a maximum of 14 points.
The battle for the playoffs is primarily between RCB, MI, CSK, and LSG.
If CSK doesn’t win against DC, it will severely impact their chances. They will then rely on MI and RCB losing their last group matches against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Gujarat Titans (GT), respectively.
If LSG, RCB, and MI win their remaining games while CSK loses to DC, the campaign for MS Dhoni-led CSK will come to an end.
In this scenario, CSK will be left with just 15 points, while LSG (17), MI (16), and RCB (16) will secure their spots in the playoffs.
Meanwhile, CSK’s batting coach, Michael Hussey, expressed confidence in captain MS Dhoni, stating that he is still fit and can continue playing for the next five years.
Speaking to the media ahead of the crucial match against DC, Hussey said that Dhoni is still batting well and is motivated to keep coming to training and working on his game.
As CSK gears up for their do-or-die battle against DC, their fans and cricket enthusiasts will eagerly await the outcome of this high-stakes match that will determine CSK’s fate in the IPL 2023 playoffs.
Also Read: IPL 2023: Conway Catapults PBKS to Victory with a 4-wicket Victory over CSK
