IPL 6: Match 11 - KXIP vs CSK - Heroes of the day

Although it was not a nail biter like most of the previous matches, the 11th match of the Pepsi IPL 2013 was characterized by some wonderful performances by talented players. Clinical as usual in their approach, the Chennai Super Kings pulled off their first victory this season against Punjab on their home turf. Although it appeared as if Punjab would go into the break with a big score under their belt, CSK managed to do some intelligent death over bowling which ended the home innings at just 138 all out in 19.5 overs. Following this, the second innings was a show of complete class and elegance. CSK chased down the total easily without losing a single wicket. Here are some of the players who impacted the match heavily:

1) Mike Hussey : (86* off 54 deliveries)

Chennai Super Kings opener Michael Hussey in action against Kings XI Punjab (Photo: IANS)

Mr. Cricket, although retired from international cricket, proved tonight that he is still among the best in the business. Although the pitch was quite an easy one to bat on, Hussey’s job was a bit difficult than it would seem to be. With Murali Vijay trying to find his rhythm and consuming many deliveries to get going, it was Mike’s job to make sure that the asking rate would not climb up to more than 8 an over. The veteran looked in sublime touch today, and none of the spectators who witnessed him could have said that he has retired from international cricket. Scoring 86 off just 54 balls, his brilliant innings included some classy drives and two huge Yes Bank maximums. In addition to giving them a solid start, he also made sure that he remained on the crease till he saw his team home quite comfortably. Due to this stupendous and resounding performance, the jury rightly presented him the player of the match award.

2) David Hussey: (41 off 36 deliveries)

It was a wonderful day for both the Hussey brothers, although unfortunately for David, he was on the losing side at the end. Nevertheless, his innings of 41 from just 36 balls accelerated the scoring for the Punjab team, although they miserably failed to capitalize on this incredible platform he had provided for the lower middle order to go all guns blazing. His partnership with Gurkeerat was the only highlight of the day for Punjab, as none of their other batters or bowlers contributed much. Taking risks in a calculative manner, he along with young Gurkeerat, took the team total to 100 in the 14th over itself, and it looked like a strong platform for a high score was set. He showed signs of sublime form too like his brother, which will definitely be required for Punjab if they have to make an impact in this edition of the IPL.

3) Dirk Nannes: (3.5-0-17-2)

He is probably the impact bowler for CSK in this edition. Cleaning up the opening pair in no time, he gave the Super Kings the start they required. He picked up the important wicket of Adam Gilchrist, who had started off by scoring two vintage boundaries. His economy was just 4.43 runs per over, which is nothing short of gold dust in this format of the game. Also, his excellent bowling towards the end helped CSK restrict Punjab to a below par total despite an excellent platform being set by D Hussey’s innings. Dirk Nannes has the role of the strike bowler for CSK to play this season, and he executed it to perfection yesterday. Also, the team will certainly get a lot more stronger once Albie Morkel returns.

4) Dwayne Bravo: (4-0-27-3)

He was one of those all-rounders who came in handy as the fifth bowler for MSD. Although normally considered as a reserve option in the side, his performance took the centre-stage yesterday. Bowling brilliantly towards the death overs, he picked up 3 key wickets which helped CSK restrict Punjab to a low score in the 1st innings. His subtle variations in pace and length certainly made him a dangerous customer for the Punjab batsmen to deal with.

5) Murali Vijay: (50* off 50 deliveries)

Although he took his time out in the middle, he timed the ball quite brilliantly in his quiet half-century. Realising that the target was relatively small, he assessed the pitch very well and used this opportunity to find his touch. Once he got his eye in, those characteristic big shots of him came through quite easily and he was successful in guiding his side to the winning shores along with Mike Hussey.