In the thrilling IPL 2023 final in Ahmedabad, which ended early on Tuesday, May 30, Chennai Super Kings emerged victorious against the Gujarat Titans.
As Ravindra Jadeja struck the winning runs, the entire CSK dugout erupted with joy and rushed onto the field to embrace the hero.
Unlike the IPL 2021 final where M S Dhoni simply gave a thumbs up and headed to the dugout when CSK won, there was an overwhelming outpouring of emotions this time as they won a fifth IPL title, matching the record set by the Mumbai Indians in the tournament's history.
Dhoni, unable to watch the last three balls of the thrilling finale, kept his eyes closed while sitting in the dugout.
With 10 runs required off the last two deliveries, Jadeja displayed his brilliance by smashing a six off Mohit Sharma over long-on, followed by a well-executed shot for four on the leg side.
Moments later, in what can be considered the highlight of IPL 2023, an emotional Dhoni lifted Jadeja, and the two celebrated the historic victory together.
After the rain-marred fixture, where CSK secured a five wicket win over the Gujarat Titans, Jadeja dedicated the triumph to a special member of the CSK side -- Mahendra Singh Dhoni.
'I would like to dedicate this win to M S Dhoni, a valued member of the CSK family. Winning my fifth title in front of my home crowd feels incredible. As I hail from Gujarat, this victory holds a special place in my heart,' Jadeja expressed with elation.
Photographs curated by Anant Salvi/Rediff.com
