By exploreodisha.in 
In an electrifying encounter at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati on March 30, 2025, the Rajasthan Royals (RR) edged out the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by a narrow margin of six runs. This match, marked by stellar individual performances and strategic gameplay, kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final delivery.
First Innings: Rajasthan Royals Set a Competitive Target
Opting to bat first after losing the toss, RR posted a total of 182 for 9 in their allotted 20 overs. The innings was anchored by Nitish Rana’s explosive 81 off just 36 balls, a knock that included 10 boundaries and 5 towering sixes. His aggressive approach provided RR with the momentum they needed. Skipper Riyan Parag also contributed a valuable 37 runs from 28 deliveries, ensuring the team reached a competitive total.
On the bowling front for CSK, Noor Ahmad and Matheesha Pathirana were the standout performers, each claiming two wickets for 28 runs. Their disciplined spells were instrumental in restricting RR from posting an even higher score.
Second Innings: CSK’s Chase Falls Short
Chasing 183 for victory, CSK’s innings got off to a rocky start with the early dismissal of Rachin Ravindra for a duck, courtesy of Jofra Archer’s precise bowling. However, Ruturaj Gaikwad steadied the ship with a well-crafted 63 off 44 balls, featuring seven fours and a six. Despite his efforts, CSK found themselves needing 91 runs from the final 49 balls.
The middle order struggled to build substantial partnerships, with Shivam Dube managing 18 runs off 10 balls before falling to Wanindu Hasaranga. Hasaranga emerged as the game-changer for RR, delivering a remarkable spell of 4 wickets for 35 runs, effectively dismantling CSK’s batting lineup.
In the final overs, MS Dhoni (16 off 11) and Ravindra Jadeja (32 off 22) attempted a late surge. The equation boiled down to 20 runs required from the last over. Sandeep Sharma, entrusted with the crucial final over, held his nerve. He dismissed Dhoni early in the over, and despite some resistance from Jamie Overton, CSK fell short, finishing at 176 for 6, thus handing RR a thrilling six-run victory.
Key Performances and Turning Points
- Nitish Rana’s Batting Brilliance: His aggressive 81 laid the foundation for RR’s competitive total and put CSK’s bowlers under significant pressure.
- Wanindu Hasaranga’s Bowling Mastery: With figures of 4 for 35, Hasaranga’s spell was pivotal in breaking CSK’s momentum during their chase.
- Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Resilient Knock: Despite the loss, Gaikwad’s 63 showcased his ability to anchor an innings under pressure.
- Sandeep Sharma’s Death Over Heroics: Defending 20 runs in the final over against seasoned finishers like Dhoni and Jadeja, Sharma’s composure was instrumental in sealing the win for RR.
This match not only highlighted the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket but also underscored the importance of individual brilliance and strategic execution in determining the outcome of closely contested games.