The Indian Premier League (IPL) final pits Chennai Super Kings, four-time champions, against Gujarat Titans, the title-holders. Chennai prevailed when the teams last met, in the first Qualifier. But it will be a new day, different venue and another game. Here are some of the subplots which might decide which way the match goes.
All eyes on Gill
Shubhman Gill against the Chennai bowlers is a big subplot in this game. Few batters have lit up the IPL like him after Virat Kohli in 2016, and Jos Buttler last season. Three centuries, five half-centuries, Orange cap and strike-rate of 156.43 only scratch the surface of what Gill has done. The way he scored those runs, the manner he dismantled attacks, and the finesse with which he struck the ball are the highlights of his sensational performance. The pinnacle, of course, was the century against Mumbai Indians. Obviously, the final is not going be Gill versus Chennai. But how the Chennai bowlers handle him could play a big part in determining the result.
The MSD factor
MS Dhoni has not quite set the stage afire with his batting this season. Other than the odd cameo, he has not really fired. That’s because he has pushed himself down the order. But he has made a huge difference with his captaincy and wicketkeeping. His field placements have been astute, and the handling of bowlers clever. This does not get noticed very often, but makes an impact on the outcome of the game. Be sure, he will have his plans ready for Gill. He will use all his experience and resources to blunt the most potent force in the opposition batting line-up.
Gujarat’s versatile attack
How often do you see three bowlers from the same team occupying the top three spots in the list of wicket-takers? The Gujarat attack has been phenomenal! Rashid Khan, Mohammad Shami, Mohit Sharma, Noor Ahmad, Hardik Pandya and Josh Little form a unique combination. Other than finger spin, they have everything. The best part is, the roles are defined for everyone. Who will bowl at which part of the innings has been planned well in advance. Using Mohit specifically in the second half is an example. Ashish Nehra, their chief coach, must have played a part in this process. And the results are there for everyone to see. The Chennai batting unit is in for a stern test.
Chennai openers
Devon Conway and Ruturaj Gaekwad, who start things off for Chennai, have given the team owners good returns for the money spent on them. Left and right, they form a tricky pair and have been in good touch. They are consistent as well. Yes, the middle order has also contributed, but if you look at the runs scored by the team, the bulk has come from these two. Come the final, and no doubt Chennai will expect them to fire. Yes, they will face the best attack in the IPL this season, but they have what it takes to confront them. Nehra and Pandya will have plans ready for them. This will be an interesting contest between the Gujarat bowlers and the Chennai openers.
Pathirana vs Gill?
Chennai’s attack has an X-factor. It’s called Matheesha Pathirana. With that slinging action reminiscent of Lasith Malinga, this Sri Lankan has played a vital part in Chennai’s progress this season. He is quick, accurate and when the ball moves from that awkward looking release, it becomes difficult for batters to come to terms with it. Dhoni has mostly used him in the late overs, somewhat like what Gujarat have done with Mohit. The Chennai side has quite a versatile attack where Pathirana has all the potential to become the trump card. Will Dhoni be forced to unleash him early to counter Gill? Time will tell, but if this happens, it will be a mouth-watering duel.
Also Read: Shubman Gill Has Found a New, Higher, Gear in IPL 2023