The IPL 2023 Final is finally here after an enthralling display of 73 action-packed matches. The defending champions, Gujarat Titans, will clash with the four-time winner, Chennai Super Kings. The highly anticipated match is set to take place on May 29 at the Titans' home ground in Ahmedabad. Expectations are high for a thrilling contest between two of the season's best teams.
Under the leadership of Hardik Pandya, the Gujarat Titans have carried forward the momentum from the previous season. They finished the league stage as the table-toppers, winning 10 out of their 14 games. Despite losing to CSK in Qualifier 1, they showcased their dominance with a resounding victory over the Mumbai Indians in Qualifier 2, securing their spot in the final. The team has exhibited exceptional cohesion, but individual players have also stood out. Shubman Gill, the season's Orange Cap holder, leads the pack with an impressive tally of over 800 runs, including three centuries. Vijay Shankar has also been a revelation, amassing over 300 runs in a demanding middle-order role.
Mohammed Shami and Rashid Khan have delivered breathtaking spells in terms of bowling. Both bowlers have been relentlessly taking wickets, occupying the top two spots in the highest wicket-takers list this season. Shami has claimed 28 wickets at an average of 17.60, while Rashid has picked up 27 scalps at 18.80. Additionally, Mohit Sharma, a replacement bowler, has significantly impacted, claiming 24 wickets in just 13 matches. His consistency in the death overs has made him a valuable asset for the Titans. Gujarat will rely on these individuals to deliver outstanding performances in the final.
Chennai Super Kings have defied expectations this season, overcoming numerous challenges to reach the final. Their bowling unit was initially considered one of the weakest, but MS Dhoni's leadership has brought out the best in them. Uncapped pacer Tushar Deshpande has had an excellent season, taking 21 wickets in 15 matches. Sri Lankan speedster Matheesha Pathirana and spinner Maheesh Theekshana have also been vital weapons for Dhoni, excelling in the death and middle-overs, respectively. Besides his contributions with the bat, Ravindra Jadeja has picked up 19 wickets as well.
However, it has been CSK's batting that has truly made the difference for them. Devon Conway and Ruturaj Gaikwad have consistently performed at the top of the order. Conway has accumulated over 600 runs at an average of over 50, while Gaikwad has also scored over 550 runs. Shivam Dube's contributions in the middle order have been crucial to their success, as he has scored 386 runs at a strike rate of 158.84. Captain Dhoni has also made vital contributions in the death overs, amassing 104 runs at a remarkable strike rate 185.71.
CSK will look to their batters and bowlers to once again rise to the occasion in this tournament's final match. They already have a mental advantage, having defeated the Titans in the first qualifier. However, it's worth noting that the previous game took place at Chepauk, where CSK is a formidable force. The final will be played at the Titans' stronghold in Ahmedabad, where teams find it more difficult to beat them.
Probable Playing XIs:
Gujarat Titans
Wriddhiman Saha (wk), Shubman Gill, Sai Sudharsan, Vijay Shankar, Hardik Pandya (c), David Miller, Rahul Tewatia, Rashid Khan, Mohit Sharma, Noor Ahmad, Mohammed Shami
Chennai Super Kings
Ruturaj Gaikwad, Devon Conway, Ajinkya Rahane, Ambati Rayudu, Shivam Dube, Moeen Ali, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni (c & wk), Deepak Chahar, Tushar Deshpande, Maheesh Theekshana
Key Players To Watch Out For
Shubman Gill has been a standout performer this season, accumulating over 850 runs at an impressive average of nearly 60. His record in Ahmedabad is even more remarkable, as he has amassed 627 runs at an astonishing average of 78.38 and a strike rate of 155.58. Gill's consistency and ability to perform in high-pressure situations make him a key player for the Gujarat Titans.
Devon Conway, the Kiwi batsman, has been a shining star for CSK this season. With 625 runs under his belt, Conway is their highest run-getter, averaging over 50. He has smashed six half-centuries, displaying his ability to anchor the innings. In the final, Conway will be responsible for countering the formidable opening spell of Shami and Hardik. His performance will be vital to CSK's success.
Match Prediction: Who Will Win the Contest?
Considering the teams on paper, the Gujarat Titans appear significantly more potent than CSK. Moreover, the added advantage of playing on their home ground tilts the scales further in their favour. With Hardik Pandya's men possessing a strong lineup and a familiar pitch, they will begin the match as the favourites.