IPL 2025 – Match 30 Report: LSG vs CSK
In a high-octane IPL 2025 clash at Lucknow’s Ekana Stadium on April 14, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) defeated Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) by five wickets. The win came with three balls to spare, thanks to a late flourish by MS Dhoni.
LSG Set a Competitive Total
LSG chose to bat first after winning the toss. Openers KL Rahul and Quinton de Kock gave the team a decent start. De Kock scored 30 off 22 before falling to spin. Rahul held the innings together, scoring 63 off 49 balls with controlled aggression.
Wickets fell regularly from the other end as CSK bowlers tightened the screws. Matheesha Pathirana was impressive again, returning figures of 2/28. Moeen Ali and Ravindra Jadeja also kept the scoring in check.
LSG finished at 166/7 in their 20 overs — a total that seemed slightly below par on a decent batting track.
Chennai’s Rocky Start
CSK’s reply was shaky. Ruturaj Gaikwad went early, and Ajinkya Rahane followed soon after. Shivam Dube steadied the ship with a 42-run knock. Jadeja’s 33 added stability, but CSK still needed 35 off the last 18 balls with five wickets down.
MS Dhoni Turns Back the Clock
At a tense moment, MS Dhoni arrived and shifted the momentum. He blasted 26 runs off just 11 balls, finishing the match with signature helicopter shots and calm under pressure.
His unbeaten cameo sealed the win in the final over and earned him the Player of the Match award.
Match Summary
- LSG: 166/7 (KL Rahul 63, Pathirana 2/28)
- CSK: 168/5 in 19.3 overs (Dube 42, Dhoni 26*)
- Result: CSK won by 5 wickets
- Player of the Match: MS Dhoni
Points Table Impact
This victory pushes CSK up the IPL 2025 leaderboard. LSG will need to revisit their bowling strategy, especially at the death. Dhoni’s match-winning knock reminded everyone that the finisher’s instinct is still alive and kicking.
