Rana, Hasaranga Guide Rajasthan Royals to First Victory over CSK
The Rajasthan Royals have officially opened their account in the 2025 Indian Premier League, securing a hard-fought victory over the Chennai Super Kings in their recent encounter. Propelled by an explosive innings from Nitish Rana and a skillful display of wrist-spin bowling from Wanindu Hasaranga, the Royals successfully defended their total in a close finish, handing CSK their second consecutive loss.
Rana Provides Early Impetus
Opting for a tactical change, Rajasthan Royals promoted Nitish Rana to the crucial number three position. The move paid immediate dividends as Rana launched a blistering assault, particularly targeting veteran spinner R Ashwin, against whom he holds a favourable record. Rana raced to one of RR's fastest fifties and ultimately scored 81 runs off just 36 deliveries. His aggressive approach dominated the powerplay and set a strong platform for the Royals' innings, despite the loss of openers.
Super Kings Contain the Damage
Following Rana's dismissal, Chennai Super Kings' bowlers managed to regain some control. Spinners Noor Ahmad and Ravindra Jadeja bowled economical spells through the middle overs. At the death, Matheesha Pathirana and Khaleel Ahmed executed their plans effectively, conceding only 17 runs from the final three overs. This collective effort restricted Rajasthan Royals to 182 for 9, a total that seemed slightly below par considering their explosive start.
Gaikwad Anchors,
In response, CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad played a responsible innings, anchoring the chase with a well-compiled 63. However, the pursuit was significantly hampered by Wanindu Hasaranga. The Sri Lankan wrist-spinner utilised his variations effectively, particularly the googly, to claim four vital wickets through the middle phase. He dismissed key batters including Shivam Dube and eventually Gaikwad himself, disrupting CSK's momentum at crucial junctures.7
Late Fightback Falls Short
Despite losing wickets, a late surge from Ravindra Jadeja (32*) and MS Dhoni (16) kept CSK within touching distance. However, needing 19 runs from the final over, veteran seamer Sandeep Sharma held his nerve for the Royals. He dismissed Dhoni with his first legitimate delivery and conceded only 12 runs, sealing a narrow six-run victory for Rajasthan. Rana's initial batting onslaught provided a cushion, while Hasaranga's control and wicket-taking ability through the middle overs ultimately subdued the Chennai chase.
Photo courtesy: Cricinfo
