At Eden Gardens, Chennai Super Kings dominated Kolkata Knight Riders in a one-sided match that propelled them to the summit of the IPL 2023 standings. The foundation for the visitor’s victory was set by Ajinkya Rahane’s second spectacular inning. Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra was astounded by Rahane’s blistering innings, as were many others. The four-time champions got off to a quick start thanks to a solid opening partnership by Devon Conway and Ruturaj Gaikwad.
However, it was the destructive duo of Ajinkya Rahane and Shivam Dube that stole the game from the host team. While Dube scored fifty off of 20 balls during his stay, Rahane remained unblemished at the crease with 71 runs off of 29 balls. Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra praised the match-winning innings of the veteran cricketer. He disclosed that many, including himself, believed Rahane’s finest days were behind him after his poor performance with KKR in last year’s tournament.
“At the Wankhede, Ajinkya Rahane scored a fifty off 19 deliveries, but he batted differently here. It appeared as if the bat had boosters affixed to it. Ajinkya Rahane has never struck so many sixes and fours. What happened, Ajju, my brother? We all felt, including myself, that the best of his T20 career is behind him. Not because he has not scored runs. “He has scored centuries in the past, but it appeared he would not be able to do so now,” Chopra said in a YouTube video.
It is now evident that Chennai brings out the finest in individuals: Aakash Chopra
Chopra believes that Rahane’s transformation is a result of what the Chennai-based franchise does to its athletes. Rahane is the latest cricketer to elevate his game to the next level for MS Dhoni’s team, which has previously done so with a number of other players.
It is incredible what Ajju has accomplished this year and what Chennai does with their athletes. It is now evident that Chennai brings out the best in individuals,” he continued.