Chennai Super Kings have requested the fans to stay back after the IPL 2024 clash against Rajasthan Royals at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Sunday, May 12.
CSK will play their final home game in the league stage of the IPL 2024 against RR and the defending champions will aim to conclude their home game on a positive note. It is to be noted that the Chennai Super Kings' final home game is likely to be former skipper MS Dhoni's last appearance in Chennai. It is speculated that the legendary wicketkeeper-batter is playing his final IPL season and thereafter, he will pull the curtains down on his professional career.
Chennai Super Kings shared a post on Instagram and urged the fans not to leave the stadium after the match as 'something special' is planned for them.
CSK's caption reads, "Requesting the Superfans to Stay back after the game! Something special coming your way!"
The clash against Rajasthan Royals is crucial for Chennai Super Kings as they have to win in order to stay in top four on the points table and consolidate their chances of qualifying for the playoffs.
Despite defeat in their previous outing against Delhi Capitals, Ruturaj Gaikwad-led remained in the top four. CSK are currently at the fourth spot with six wins and as many losses in their 12 outings while accumulating 12 points.
Ruturaj Gaikwad-led CSK lost the toss and put to bat first by RR
Ruturaj Gaikwad once again lost the toss and Chennai Super Kings were put to bat first by Rajasthan Royals' skipper Sanju Samson. It was the 11 time in 13 matches that Gaikwad failed to win the toss.
In their final home game, Chennai Super Kings made a change to their playing XI by bringing in Maheesh Theekshana in place of Mitchell Santner.
Speaking at the toss, Gaikwad said that he didn't mind his side bowling first as the pitch is going to be same throughout the match. He needed that the Chennai Super Kings have to win remaining two games to make it to the playoffs.
"Dew is not a factor, doesn't matter if we bat or ball first. The pitch will remain the same throughout the game. In these conditions you need to prepare mentally. We spoke about the areas we need to improve. You need to be in a good head space and deliver what's expected." CSK skipper said.
"We got the right balance, Rachin and I will open, Mitchell will bat at number 3. Theekshana comes in for Santner. Need to believe and back yourself. We want to win every game possible, you got to have the right mindset." he added.
