Out of the 14 seasons that Chennai Super Kings have played at the IPL, they have had only two forgettable campaigns- 2020 and 2022, the only two times when they did not qualify for the playoffs. After failing to make it into the top four in 2020, CSK bounced back stronger to win the title in 2021. After finishing in the ninth spot in 2022, CSK have bounced back and made their way into their 12th IPL playoff this season, in IPL 2023.
CSK had a disastrous outing last season, but he made a commitment during CSK’s last game of the league stage, saying that he will work hard to come back stronger next year. The CSK skipper stood by his words this season, and gave the fans a memorable time throughout the league stage, as CSK became the second team to qualify for the knockout round and will be plying their trade for the ticket to the finale when they meet Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 1.
Dhoni’s statement from last year has been doing rounds ever since CSK booked their place in the top two. When CSK faced RR in their last game of the group stage in IPL 2022, Ian Bishop had asked Dhoni about his future plans at the toss, and had questioned whether he will be seen in the yellow jersey again next year. To which, Dhoni had replied saying:
“Whether (2023) will be my last year or not, that’s a big question because you can’t really predict something two years down the line. But definitely, I will be working hard to come back strong next year.”
CSK have delivered yet again, and Dhoni’s word has undoubtedly been kept in excellent style. No other team has managed to qualify for the playoff more than nine times, as five-time champions Mumbai Indians have pulled off the feat. But CSK are way ahead, having made an entry into the top four a record 12 times.
Chennai earned the berth on Saturday after defeating Delhi Capitals by a decisive score of 77 runs in their final league match. CSK were assured a top-two finish later in the day as Lucknow Super Giants failed to surpass their net run rate threshold despite defeating Kolkata Knight Riders at the Eden Gardens.
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