IPL 2024, DC vs CSK: Mukesh seals it at the death, after DC's top-order smashes predictable CSK

IPL 2024, DC vs CSK: Mukesh Kumar seals it at the death, after Delhi Capitals' top-order smashes predictable Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Top Takeaways for DC and CSK from Visakhapatnam game.

IPL 2024: Mukesh Kumar took 3-21 in death overs against CSK (Images: ©IPL/X)

Brief Scores: DC 191/5 (Warner 52, Pant 51, Pathirana 3/31) beat CSK 171/6 (Rahane 45, Kumar 3/21) by 20 runs. 

Player of the Match: Khaleel Ahmad (2 wickets for 21 runs)

The exhilarating conclusion of the DC vs CSK game saw MS Dhoni's fireworks towards the end, igniting the crowd with his explosive hitting. However, despite the late surge, the game had already slipped away from the Chennai Super Kings. The Delhi Capitals' meticulous execution of their game plan was evident throughout the match, particularly in their bowling performance, which laid the groundwork for their 20-run victory.

Key Takeaways from DC vs CSK, Match 13, IPL 2024- Winning team (DC)

Positive batting by DC, further aided by fresh addition of Prithvi Shaw

In the Capitals' innings, the opening partnership between Prithvi Shaw and David Warner laid a solid foundation. Shaw's aggressive batting style quickly shifted the momentum in Delhi's favour. His explosive stroke play, particularly against Mustafizur Rahman, set the tone for the innings. While Warner played a more subdued role, his stability at the crease ensured Delhi didn't lose early wickets, allowing his partners to play more freely.

As the innings progressed, it was the skipper, Rishabh Pant, who provided the much-needed impetus in the latter overs. After a period of quiet consolidation in the middle overs, Pant displayed his prowess as a finisher with a late onslaught. Pant's aggressive approach injected momentum back into the innings, pushing Delhi Capitals to a competitive total.

Overall, Shaw's explosive start, Pant's late flourish, and Warner's stabilizing presence were instrumental in ensuring Delhi Capitals posted a challenging total.

Read More: IPL 2024: Prithvi Shaw's inclusion will help DC set their house in order

Rishabh Pant scored his first fifty after return (Images: ©IPL/X)

Mukesh Kumar adds value to Delhi’s bowling unit

Delhi Capitals' bowling attack delivered a remarkable performance, effectively constraining the home team's batting lineup. Mukesh Kumar, in particular, emerged as a standout performer, demonstrating exceptional skill and composure under pressure.

Throughout his spell, Kumar showcased well-executed wide yorkers and deceptive slower deliveries. These variations posed significant challenges for the CSK batters, disrupting their rhythm and limiting their scoring opportunities.

One pivotal moment came when Kumar dismissed Shivam Dube, who had been a potential threat with his aggressive batting style. By consistently bowling wide outside off stump, Kumar forced Dube into a position where he had to reach for the shot, resulting in a mistimed stroke and a simple catch for the fielder at long-off.

Furthermore, Kumar's strategic approach was evident in his dismissal of Ajinkya Rahane. He cleverly floated a slower ball on off stump, tempting Rahane to go for a big shot. However, Rahane failed to connect cleanly, resulting in a straightforward catch for David Warner at long-on.

Kumar's consistent line and length exerted sustained pressure on CSK at the end overs restricting mighty Dhoni as well from reaching the target. 

Read More: IPL 2024, RR vs DC: Riyan Parag owns the big stage as RR put aside confused DC

Key Takeaways from DC vs CSK, Match 13, IPL 2024- Losing team (CSK)

Predictable bowling, a potential threat

The predictability in Chennai's bowling attack was evident with only five bowling options utilized throughout the innings, potentially providing an opportunity for the Capitals to strategize and target certain bowlers. This prompted them to exploit those bowlers whom they deemed as potential weak links in the CSK bowling attack.

Furthermore, the lack of additional bowling options for CSK might have made it challenging for their captain to rotate the bowlers effectively and keep the opposition batters guessing. Introducing additional bowling options such as Rachin Ravindra or Daryl Mitchell into the attack could have provided CSK with more flexibility and tactical options to counter the DC batting lineup's strengths.

Read More: IPL 2024, CSK vs GT: Clinical CSK execute perfect job, demolish GT

Ms Dhoni scored 31 off 16 balls against Delhi Capitals (Images: ©IPL/X)

Signs of promise from ‘Vintage’ Dhoni

MS Dhoni's unbeaten knock of 37 runs off 16 at a strike rate of 231.25 is an extremely positive sign for Chennai. As one of the most seasoned campaigners in the CSK lineup, Dhoni's form with the bat bodes well for the team's chances in future matches. 

Statistical Highlights for DC vs CSK

• In this IPL season, Ruturaj Gaikwad has faced left-arm pacers in three innings, managing to score 17 runs off 16 deliveries but has been dismissed thrice.

• Dube's struggle against DC continues, as his average now drops to 18.00 in 8 innings.

IPL 2024 Points Table

Points Table Scenario and what’s next to come

DC will be happy with the way they registered their first win this season by thrashing mighty CSK at their home. They are now placed seventh on the table. Chennai slips to second position following today’s loss.

Next up the much dramatic team of this season Mumbai Indians will lock horns with Rajasthan at the Wankhede. The home team will look forward to registering their first win this season. 

Read More: IPL 2024: Rachin Ravindra, CSK's new enforcer at the top