IPL 2023: Chennai Super Kings vs Gujarat Titans Final – A Look at the Highlights and Disappointments

The 16th edition of the Indian Premier League is reaching its conclusion as Chennai Super Kings aim to secure their record-equalling fifth title against defending champions Gujarat Titans.

Originally scheduled for Sunday, the final was postponed to the reserve day due to heavy rain and thunderstorms in Ahmedabad.

Let’s take a closer look at the standout moments and disappointments from the 2023 season in the world’s most lucrative cricket tournament.

Gill Shines Bright

Shubman Gill, previously criticized for his slow approach in T20 cricket, has transformed himself across formats. In this IPL, he emerged as the top scorer with 851 runs and counting, as he is set to play in the final. Gill’s three centuries, including a match-winning 129 off 60 balls against Mumbai, have garnered praise from former Indian captain Kapil Dev. However, Dev suggests giving Gill another season before making grand comparisons to legends like Sunil Gavaskar, Sachin Tendulkar, and Virat Kohli.

Baby Malinga’s Impact

Sri Lanka’s Matheesha Pathirana excelled during the tournament, taking 17 wickets for Chennai Super Kings. With a slinging action reminiscent of his hero Lasith Malinga, he showcased a knack for bowling yorkers. Pathirana, dubbed “Baby Malinga,” made his mark as a key player in Chennai’s death bowling. Captain M.S. Dhoni hailed the 20-year-old as “special.”

Rinku Singh, the Chase-master

Kolkata Knight Riders batsman Rinku Singh became an overnight sensation with his match-winning display, hitting five sixes off the final five balls in an incredible chase against Gujarat. His unbeaten 21-ball 48 was no fluke, as he registered four half-centuries and mastered the art of finishing games. Despite his impressive performances, Kolkata failed to qualify for the playoffs.

Curran’s Underwhelming Season

England’s World Cup-winning all-rounder Sam Curran failed to live up to expectations after Punjab Kings splurged $2.23 million on him, making him the most expensive buy in IPL history. With 276 runs and 10 wickets, Curran’s performances were lackluster, contributing to Punjab’s disappointing eighth-place finish. Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag criticized the investment, questioning Curran’s impact on the team.

Unimpressive Shaw

Delhi Capitals opener Prithvi Shaw, once compared to Sachin Tendulkar, endured a forgettable season with only 106 runs in eight matches. Struggling against quality seam bowling, Shaw lost his place in the XI midway through the tournament. Coach Ricky Ponting acknowledged the 23-year-old’s failure to live up to expectations, mirroring Delhi’s disappointing campaign, which saw them finish ninth in the table.

Brook’s Mixed Performance

England’s Harry Brook, despite scoring the first century of the season, failed to make a significant impact. Signed by Sunrisers Hyderabad for $1.6 million, Brook managed only 90 runs in 10 matches, excluding his unbeaten century against Kolkata. Hyderabad dropped the 24-year-old for three matches, but their overall performance left them with the wooden spoon in the 10-team table. Brook’s post-century comments on social media were met with backlash from Indian trolls.