Rana’s 81 and Hasaranga’s 4-fer Power Rajasthan Royals to First IPL 2025 Win Over CSK
The Rajasthan Royals (RR) secured their first victory of the IPL 2025 season with a thrilling six-run win over the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Jaipur Cricket Stadium. Nitish Rana’s explosive 81 off just 36 deliveries and a masterful bowling performance by Wanindu Hasaranga (4/35) proved decisive in RR’s triumph.
Electing to bat first, RR posted a challenging total of 182/9, largely thanks to Rana’s blistering knock. His innings was punctuated by a flurry of boundaries and sixes, dismantling the CSK bowling attack. Abhinav Parag provided valuable support with a steady 37, while Noor Ahmad and Matheesha Pathirana picked up two wickets apiece for CSK, attempting to contain the RR onslaught.
CSK’s chase was anchored by Ruturaj Gaikwad’s composed 63. However, the RR bowlers, spearheaded by Hasaranga’s cunning variations, maintained relentless pressure. Hasaranga’s deceptive wrong’un proved particularly effective, exposing vulnerabilities in CSK’s middle order. Despite a late surge by Ravindra Jadeja, who finished unbeaten on 32 off 22 balls, CSK fell agonizingly short, ending their innings at 176/6.
The final over, entrusted to Sandeep Sharma ahead of Jofra Archer, was a nail-biting affair. Sharma delivered under immense pressure, dismissing MS Dhoni (16 off 11) with his first legal delivery to seal a memorable victory for RR.
From a tactical perspective, RR’s decision to promote Rana up the order paid rich dividends. His aggressive approach disrupted CSK’s bowling plans and set the platform for a competitive total. CSK, on the other hand, will rue their middle-order collapse, which ultimately cost them the match. Hasaranga’s astute use of variations and changes of pace proved too difficult for the CSK batsmen to handle.
Official match statistics highlighted Rana’s dominance with the bat, striking at a rate of over 225. Hasaranga’s four-wicket haul underscored his impact with the ball. Gaikwad’s 63 for CSK was a lone bright spot in their chase.
“This win is a huge boost for the team’s morale,” said a jubilant RR official after the match. “Nitish’s innings was exceptional, and Wanindu’s bowling was simply outstanding. We showed great character and resilience, and this victory will give us confidence going forward.”
This victory marks RR’s first win of the IPL 2025 season, while CSK suffers their second consecutive defeat. The result underscores the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket and sets the stage for an exciting tournament ahead.
