In a nail-biting encounter at Eden Gardens on May 7, 2025, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) pulled off a dramatic 2-wicket win over the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), rekindling their playoff hopes and simultaneously dealing a severe blow to KKR’s campaign. The match delivered high-octane action and individual brilliance, capped by MS Dhoni’s trademark calm under pressure.
KKR Set a Competitive Target
Winning the toss and opting to bat first, KKR posted a solid total of 179/6 in their 20 overs. The innings was anchored by Rinku Singh, who once again demonstrated his growing stature in the IPL with a composed 54 off 37 balls, including 5 fours and 2 sixes. Andre Russell, known for his explosive finishing, contributed a fiery 45 off just 21 deliveries, smashing 4 sixes and adding much-needed acceleration in the final overs.
Despite a few quick wickets early on, KKR’s middle and lower order ensured the scoreboard kept ticking. However, they fell short of reaching a 190+ target due to tight bowling at the death by CSK’s Noor Ahmad and Mustafizur Rahman.
CSK’s Rollercoaster Chase
Chasing 180 for victory, CSK had a rocky start, losing openers cheaply. But Dewald Brevis stepped in with a game-changing performance, blasting 52 off 25 balls, laced with boundaries and calculated aggression that kept the required rate within reach. His fearless approach laid the foundation for the chase.
Shivam Dube, coming in at a critical juncture, played the anchor’s role to perfection with a mature 45 off 40 deliveries. His knock held the innings together and allowed the big hitters to play around him.
The match came down to the wire, with CSK needing 12 runs in the last over. All eyes were on MS Dhoni, who, despite criticism earlier in the season, once again rose to the occasion. With the equation down to 6 off 3 balls, Dhoni unleashed a towering six over long-on to seal the match, finishing unbeaten on 17 off 18 balls.
Turning Point and Implications
The turning point of the game was undoubtedly Dewald Brevis’s aggressive knock, which shifted the momentum decisively in CSK’s favor. KKR’s bowlers, particularly Varun Chakravarthy and Mitchell Starc, couldn’t capitalize on early breakthroughs, allowing CSK to build partnerships in the middle overs.
For KKR, the loss is a major setback. Their playoff hopes now hang in the balance, with their net run rate and upcoming fixtures becoming crucial. On the other hand, CSK broke a four-match losing streak with this win and have put themselves back in contention for a top-four spot.
Player of the Match
Dewald Brevis was deservedly named Player of the Match for his explosive half-century that kept the chase alive under pressure.
