The IPL 2018 finals had so many wonderful aspects to be cherished:
An injured Shane Watson - literally standing and delivering one of the most glorious innings, ever, in an IPL finals, sweeping aside one of the best bowling attacks of the season. His baby-faced smile at the end of it all and his warm hug and kiss to his mate Rayudu were just unforgettable.
Rayudu - deservedly hitting the winning runs that saw CSK lift the IPL for the 3rd time. He had been the backbone of CSK’s batting this season taking up the responsibility and doing it admirably.
Raina - patiently playing the sheet anchor role that gave Watson the freedom and confidence to up the gear after a slow start.
Ngidi - being the pick of the CSK bowlers. The youngster had been incredible since he came on for Chennai and hope he continues to be a part of this unit for a long time.
Chahar - improving with time to become an effective opening bowler for CSK and forcing the opposition to slow down in the power-play. His batting is an added bonus. He has developed into a good all rounder option for CSK.
Karn Sharma who bowled superbly to take out the dangerous Wiliamson and who was instrumental in getting Goswami run out with an incredible throw.
The Joy of Victory - Loved the way the entire Chennai team ran up to the duo of Watson and Rayudu as they completed the chase successfully. It was a beautiful sight to see the entire team in a joyous huddle in the middle of the field. Then they all started ruffling poor Watson's hair. The big guy stood in the middle with his head bowed like a generous King Lion letting his mischievous pride play with his mane. Finally the yellow gang let him go, smiling with his hair sticking out in all directions.
A smiling Dhoni who preferred to first shake hands with his opponents rather than celebrate. He is the best Captain ever -always leading by example. Loved it when the witty MSD drove Manjrekar nuts during the toss
The innings of the never failing Captain - Kane Williamson who had been SRH’s go to guy. He was the rock that held the batting of SRH together. No wonder he was the orange cap holder.
Bhuvi bowled one of the best spells of the entire IPL and managed to shackle down the likes of Watson and Faf creating immense pressure that led to the wicket of Faf.
Rashid Khan was a live-wire in the field almost flying in to stop the balls. He was equally effective in his 4 over spell (which the CSK batsmen saw through without taking any risks.)
A determined Yusuf Pathan was instrumental in taking SRH to a par score of 179 with some lusty hitting in the end.
Finally, A fun trophy celebration which saw the CSK players celebrate their awesome win with their adorable kids and family that gave it all a wonderful feel. (something similar to what the Barcelona team does, though theirs is more elaborate.).
Thank you CSK and SRH for a memorable IPL 2018 finals.
Congratulations Chennai. It’s Whistle-podu time indeed.
Image Credits - Google Images and Chennai Superkings
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