CSK post mammoth 230 for five as Conway-Brevis lead charge with fifties

Chennai Super Kings delivered a commanding batting performance on a scorching Sunday afternoon, posting an imposing 230 for five against Gujarat Titans.

Veteran Devon Conway and rising star Dewald Brevis notched up contrasting half-centuries, laying the foundation for a power-packed innings, but it was the electric cameos from Ayush Mhatre and Urvil Patel that truly lit up the contest.

After electing to bat first under searing heat, CSK’s top order wasted no time in capitalising on ideal batting conditions. The decision by skipper MS Dhoni was vindicated as the Super Kings raced to 44 runs within just 3.4 overs, propelled by an explosive burst from Mhatre.

Mhatre, fresh off his appointment as India U-19 captain for the upcoming England tour, set the tone early with a ferocious assault on pacer Arshad Khan. In just the second over of the innings, the left-hander plundered 28 runs, dispatching the bowler for 2, 6, 6, 4, 4, 6 in a breathtaking display of power hitting. His innings of 34 off 17 deliveries at a blistering strike rate of 200 infused early momentum into CSK’s innings before he perished trying to go big against Prasidh Krishna, skying a catch to Mohammed Siraj.

Urvil Patel then took the mantle forward, showcasing fearless intent as he built a brisk 63-run partnership with Conway for the second wicket. His 37 off 19 balls, scored at a strike rate of 194, included a standout moment, a sublime pick-up shot off Rashid Khan that soared for six straight over the veteran spinner’s head, a shot that demanded not just timing but remarkable audacity. Urvil eventually fell to Sai Kishore, right after dispatching him for a six.

Meanwhile, Conway played a composed yet purposeful knock of 52 from 35 balls, anchoring the innings while allowing others to bat freely around him. He too showed flashes of aggression, launching Rashid Khan over long-on for a maximum before being castled attempting another attacking stroke.

Then came Brevis, living up to his `Baby ABD` moniker in style. The South African youngster unleashed a flurry of strokes, hammering Siraj for 6, 6, 4 in one over and putting on an entertaining 74-run partnership with Ravindra Jadeja, who added a supporting 21 off 18 balls.

(With PTI inputs)

This article first appeared on Mid Day