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CSK vs LSG Match Report: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) registered a thrilling 5-wicket win over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in Match 30 of the IPL 2025 season at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow. Chasing a target of 167, CSK displayed a clinical chase, led by a powerful knock from Shivam Dube and a masterful late cameo from MS Dhoni, whose brilliance with the bat continues to defy age.
With this win, CSK have reasserted their title ambitions in IPL 2025, climbing up the points table with a well-rounded team effort and clutch finishing from their seasoned stars.
Match Summary
- Target: 167
- Result: CSK won by 5 wickets
- Overs Taken: 18.5
- Key Performers: Shivam Dube (47* off 29), MS Dhoni (22* off 9), Ravi Bishnoi (2/19), Ruturaj Gaikwad (36 off 28)
Powerplay Start and Middle Order Wobble
CSK began their chase on a confident note with Shaik Rasheed and Rachin Ravindra getting things moving. However, a series of quick wickets — Rasheed (52/1), Ravindra (74/2), and Tripathi (76/3) — saw CSK stumble briefly.
Ravi Bishnoi’s tight spell in the middle overs sent back Rahul Tripathi (caught & bowled) and Ravindra Jadeja (caught at long-on), pushing CSK to 96/4 in 12.2 overs.
Impact Player Dube Steps Up
With the game hanging in the balance, Impact Player Shivam Dube, who replaced Pathirana at the start of the second innings, walked in and began building CSK’s recovery with calm and calculated aggression.
- Took his time early, reading the conditions
- Targeted short boundaries and weaker bowlers
- Finished unbeaten on 43 off 37 balls* (3 fours, 2 sixes)
His key partnership with Vijay Shankar and then MS Dhoni ensured that CSK never lost control of the required run rate.
“Dube’s knock was a masterclass in reading the game situation. His improved temperament is CSK’s biggest gain this season,” said commentator Matthew Hayden.
The Dhoni Effect: Vintage Finisher Shows Up Again
Just when LSG thought they could create late drama, MS Dhoni arrived at the crease with CSK needing 25 off 16 balls.
- In his signature calm, Dhoni dispatched Mohsin Khan for a six over long-on
- Followed up with a crisp four through covers off Yash Thakur
- Finished the game with a vintage six over fine leg, triggering a crowd eruption in Lucknow — ironically a home crowd that was chanting “Dhoni! Dhoni!” throughout
Final figures for Dhoni: 26* off 11 balls (4 fours, 1 sixes)
Strike Rate: 244.4
“Cometh the hour, cometh Dhoni. The man is ageless, timeless — and still the greatest closer of all time,” said Harsha Bhogle post-match.
Turning Points of the Chase
- Dube-Jadeja 20-run stand: Stabilized the innings after quick wickets
- Dube’s assault on Krunal Pandya: Took 14 off one over, releasing pressure
- Dhoni’s arrival: Turned what could’ve been a tight finish into a commanding win
LSG’s Missed Opportunities
- Dropped a half-chance off Dube early in his innings
- Poor death bowling line and lengths, especially by Thakur and Mohsin
- Over-dependence on Bishnoi for breakthroughs
Despite Ravi Bishnoi’s impactful 2/19, LSG couldn’t sustain pressure at the death. Their bowlers failed to defend in the final five overs where CSK scored 47 runs.
What This Win Means for CSK
- Their chase was calculated, patient, and composed — true to CSK’s legacy
- MS Dhoni’s presence continues to uplift the team at key moments
- Shivam Dube is rapidly becoming CSK’s go-to Impact Player and a reliable finisher
CSK’s Position: Solidifying their place in the top four, with improved net run rate and growing confidence.
Fan Reactions: Yellow Army Roars
- “Lord Dhoni finishes in style, AGAIN!”
- “Shivam Dube — the finisher CSK needed. Calm, composed, classy.”
- “This team has heart, brains, and most importantly — Dhoni.”
Social media was flooded with tributes for Dhoni’s finishing magic and Dube’s redemption innings, both hailed as key reasons behind the thrilling win.
Experience Meets Power
CSK’s 5-wicket victory against LSG was a statement of intent. From Dube’s rise to Dhoni’s magic touch, Chennai displayed depth, belief, and strategy — elements that have made them one of the most successful franchises in IPL history.
As IPL 2025 heats up, one thing is clear: Write off CSK at your own risk. Especially when MS Dhoni is still finishing games with that iconic calm.
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