Chennai batsmen trump Titans counterparts

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Cricket365
September 22, 2013

An outstanding collective effort from the Chennai Super Kings' top order brought a thorough four-wicket victory over the Titans – in Sunday's Champions League Twenty20 Group B clash at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi.

The Super Kings' decision to bowl first after winning the toss almost backfired, but the cool, calm and collection of Australian recruit Michael Hussey, the talented Suresh Raina and West Indian all-rounder Dwayne Bravo eventually ensured victory with seven deliveries to spare.

Half-centuries from Proteas stars Henry Davids and AB de Villiers stood at the fore of the Titans' imposing total, which reached 185 for five despite the tight economy of Chennai opening bowlers Mohit Sharma and Jason Holder.

The pair conceded a mere 52 runs in their combined eight overs, but the expense of the rest attack failed to complement the cheap opening throes. Spinner Ravindra Jadeja, indeed, conceded all of 49 runs in three overs.

The Indian outfit's reply endured a tough start, with Murali Vijay perishing for a duck. 47 each for Raina and Hussey, though, soon put proceedings back on track – and Bravo's 38 certainly aided ambition.

The Titans cherished a couple of late wickets, with the dismissal of renowned finisher Mahendra Singh Dhoni allowing for some late hope. Unbeaten stays from Indian hopeful Subramaniam Badrinath and South African signing Albie Morkel, though, were soon at hand to complete the inevitable.

Seamer Rowan Richards' three breakthrough went in vain, while Raina was named Man of the Match for a quickfire innings that spanned a mere 28 deliveries and featured five fours and two sixes.