In a high-stakes clash during the IPL 2024, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) faced off against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in a virtual quarterfinal. The scenario was clear: RCB needed to win by a margin of 18 runs to qualify for the playoffs, while CSK had to either win or lose by less than 18 runs to secure their playoff spot. The pivotal moment arrived in the 20th over. Yash Dayal, the RCB bowler, attempted a yorker to the legendary MS Dhoni.
However, the wet ball slipped out of control and turned into a low full toss down the leg-side. Dhoni, using his brute force, launched it high into the Bengaluru night sky for a monstrous 110-meter six that hit the roof of the M Chinnaswamy Stadium at fine leg. The stadium erupted in awe and admiration for the former CSK captain.
At that point, CSK needed 35 runs to beat RCB in their final league match. However, the target everyone had their eyes on was 201—the net run-rate column would determine the playoff spot. Dhoni’s six wiped off six of the 17 runs CSK needed, making the equation a comfortable 11 runs off 5 balls. The wet ball and RCB’s slow over-rate penalty meant that luck was on RCB’s side.
The replaced ball that changed the complexion of the game and sealed the fate of CSK. Had the ball not been replaced perhaps things would have been different but that’s the beauty of this lovely game of cricket. That’s why it’s said Cricket is a game of glorious uncertainties.
— Makarand Waingankar (@wmakarand) May 19, 2024
Ball Replaced After MS Dhoni’s 110m Six
The replacement ball came out since Dhoni’s six was unretrievable. Unfortunately for CSK, this was the last six of Dhoni’s career. The replacement ball was dry, allowing Dayal to regain control. He bowled a slower delivery to Dhoni, who sent it towards deep backward square leg. Swapnil Singh took the catch, sending RCB fans into a frenzy. Dayal’s next five deliveries resulted in just one run and the massive wicket of Dhoni. CSK fell short of their secondary (or primary) target by 10 runs, finishing at 191/72.
In the end, Dhoni’s 110m monstrous six may have cost CSK a place in the IPL 2024 playoffs. Despite his and Ravindra Jadeja’s blistering cameos, CSK couldn’t reach the required target of 201 runs, leaving them on the brink of elimination. Cricket fans will forever remember that colossal hit, but for CSK, it was a bittersweet moment—one that ultimately impacted their playoff journey.
