CSK leap to the top as Delhi Daredevils succumb to 33-run defeat

CHENNAI: As expected, Chennai Super Kings brushed aside Delhi Daredevils at home on Tuesday to move on top of the T20 league table on a day CSK, Mumbai Indians and Rajasthan Royals moved into the playoffs. Captain MS Dhoni blasted 58 not out to lift CSK to a competitive 168-4. Delhi never looked like posing a threat and ultimately finished at 135/9 to lose by 33 runs. Skipper David Warner once again played a lone hand for the Daredevils but he had scant support from his teammates. Earlier, CSK appeared to be losing their way after a positive start before Dhoni, yet again, took charge after promoting himself to No. 4. Already assured of a playoffs spot, CSK are eyeing a top-two finish that will allow them a second shot at the final, and it was to lift their net run rate that the hosts uncharacteristically opted to bat first. Dhoni's fifty came off 30 deliveries with two fours and four sixes. Only, this time it wasn't brutal hitting that the Indian captain is so very capable of, but a calculated assault that took the wind out of Daredevils's attack. Michael Hussey (26) and Murali Vijay (31) put on 61 for the opening wicket to set the platform, but Vijay's run out set off a mini collapse with the side also losing Hussey and Suresh Raina for the addition of just 12 runs. Dhoni, however, had other plans. He quickly assessed the conditions, and smacked left-arm pacer Irfan Pathan for a six as CSK rolled to 100-3 in 14 overs. Thereafter, Dhoni was lord of all he surveyed. He lashed Ashish Nehra for a six and then slapped him for a boundary with impunity in the 16th over as he took his fourth-wicket stand with Ravindra Jadeja to 57. Jadeja fell, bowled by Umesh, after chipping in with 24. Dhoni brought up his fifty with a six and a boundary off Nehra in the 19th over, and although Umesh bowled a tight last over, Dhoni had helped the team put on 59 in the last five overs. Source: TOI